It all started with a bit of doom scrolling. My husband spotted on TikTok that Silverstone was running a Lap of Lights – a chance to drive around the Formula 1 track while enjoying a festive light display. A little digging later and we realised there was a whole raft of seasonal activities, plus the option to stay trackside at Escapade. Suddenly, a festive mini break was on the cards. As Silverstone sits pretty much halfway between ourselves and my parents, it seemed the perfect spot for a family get-together between Christmas and New Year.
Silverstone: Day 1 - Trackside Fizz & Lap of Lights Magic
We arrived just after the 3pm check-in, excitement building as we drove through security and around the edge of the famous track – so familiar from TV, but so much bigger in person. The Escapade team welcomed us warmly, checking in families and F1 fans alike. The reception was buzzing, with every team kit imaginable on display. Our son proudly declared his allegiance to McLaren in his papaya T-shirt and hoodie, while he busied himself hunting for Lando Norris’s helmet on the racing-themed Christmas tree.
Our residence was jaw-dropping. Architecturally striking – like giant concrete shoeboxes stacked and twisted – but softened with wood and gentle angles. Inside, it was all about space and views. The lounge had a full glass wall overlooking the track, and the terrace gave us a perfect view of Beckett corner. Three double bedrooms, each with en-suite, plus a sleek kitchenette with everything from a coffee machine to a dishwasher. It felt indulgent, yet homely.
We toasted our arrival with fizz as the sun set, then watched the track light up for the Lap of Lights. Cars beeped their horns, some decked out in fairy lights, while our son waved frantically from the terrace shouting “Happy New Year!” at every passing car. Then it was our turn. Windows down, we ooohed and aaahed our way around the track – at a speed considerably slower than Max Verstappen! The finale was spectacular: pyrotechnics along Hamilton Straight as we crossed the finish line.
Dinner followed in the Escapade Gallery restaurant, with floor-to-ceiling views of the track and more racing-inspired art to keep our son entertained between courses (champagne corks turned into chairs – tenuous link to racing but fun!).
Silverstone: Day 2 - Simulators, Speed & Surprising Facts
After a good night’s sleep and breakfast, we headed to the Silverstone Museum. First stop: the F1 simulators, where we had great fun spinning off the track more times than we’d care to admit. The museum itself was fascinating, packed with history about the area and the origins of track names like Beckett and Chapel. Our son was thrilled to see Lando Norris’s junior go-kart and one of his McLaren F1 cars up close.
The interactive technology section was brilliant – pushing on pedals to compare the braking force of a family car relative to an F1 car was eye-opening, and I loved learning about aerodynamics. The fact that an F1 car generates enough downforce to theoretically drive upside down on the ceiling blew my mind!
We stopped at the Porsche Centre to admire their cars before heading back to Escapade’s wellness centre. The sauna and pool were serene, and we had them all to ourselves. Bliss. Another relaxed evening followed, watching the track lights from our lounge before dinner in the art-filled restaurant.
Silverstone: Day 3 - Saunas, Ice Skates & Pit Lane Treats
We treated ourselves to a late check-out, giving us time to wander the complex and admire the outdoor sculptures, sneak in another sauna and swim, and welcome more family for drinks in our lounge. A light lunch in the bar rounded things off nicely.
Before leaving, we enjoyed the temporary ice rink set up in the pit lane garages. We warmed up after the skating with hot chocolates and fresh donuts in the pit lane. Seeing the “box, box, box” markings up close, plus a full-scale Lego F1 car and several real cars side by side, was a treat. Spotting the tiny design differences that shave off hundredths of a second was fascinating.
Silverstone: Final Thoughts - Festive Lights, F1 Dreams & Family Fun
Silverstone turned out to be the perfect festive break for Formula 1 fans big and small. From trackside fizz to incredible downforce (who knew!), it was a brilliant mix of fun, family, and festive sparkle. The only pity was that the new go-karting circuit wasn’t open yet – it would have been the icing on the cake. We’ll be back in the Summer for the Grand Prix, though sadly Escapade won’t be in our budget then!
Silverstone: Useful Links
Escapade – Trackside hotel
Silverstone – Main website to access links for their events
Silverstone Museum – Main wesbite for details and tickets for simulators and museum
