Brands Hatch

Overview

Brands Hatch, located in West Kingsdown, Kent, England, is one of Britain's most iconic and beloved racing circuits. This historic venue, which began as a grass track racing site in the 1920s, has evolved into a world-class motorsport facility. Known for its natural amphitheater setting and challenging elevation changes, the circuit offers two configurations: the shorter Indy Circuit and the extended Grand Prix layout. Its unique combination of technical corners and dramatic elevation changes has made it a favorite among drivers and spectators alike.

Technical Specifications and Track Features

The circuit offers two distinguished configurations:

• Grand Prix Circuit:

  • Length: 3.916 kilometers (2.433 miles)
  • Corners: 11 (3 left-hand, 8 right-hand)
  • Elevation changes: Significant, with up to 41.6 meters
  • Layout: Natural amphitheater setting
  • Lap record: 1:12.276 by Adam Carroll in an A1GP Ferrari, 2009

• Indy Circuit:

  • Length: 1.944 kilometers (1.208 miles)
  • Corners: 7 (2 left-hand, 5 right-hand)
  • Lap record: 38.032 seconds by Scott Mansell in a Benetton B197, 2004

Key features include:

• Iconic corners and sections:

  • Paddock Hill Bend: Signature steep downhill corner
  • Druids Hairpin
  • Graham Hill Bend
  • Cooper Straight
  • Surtees
  • Clearways

• Additional details:

  • Track width: Varies between 9-15 meters
  • FIA Grade: 2 homologation
  • Safety features: Modern barrier systems, extensive gravel traps, advanced marshal posts, and CCTV monitoring systems

Facilities and Specialized Areas

Brands Hatch offers comprehensive motorsport infrastructure, including:

• Multiple pit complexes serving both circuits
• Race control building
• Media center
• Medical center
• Racing school facilities
• Corporate hospitality suites
• Multiple spectator grandstands
• Natural viewing banks
• Restaurant and café facilities
• Dedicated merchandise areas
• Extensive parking facilities
• Support paddock areas
• Helicopter landing pad

History

Brands Hatch's journey from a humble grass cycling track in the 1920s to a world-renowned racing circuit is a testament to British motorsport evolution. The venue, whose name derives from "Brondehach" (meaning "crow's foot"), served as a military vehicle training ground during World War II before being transformed into a proper racing circuit. The first tarmac was laid in 1950, and by 1964, Brands Hatch had earned the prestigious right to host the British Grand Prix, alternating with Silverstone until 1986. The circuit's golden era through the 1960s and 1970s saw legendary battles between motorsport icons like Jim Clark, Graham Hill, and Jackie Stewart, with James Hunt's memorable 1976 British Grand Prix victory standing as one of its most celebrated moments. While Formula 1 departed after 1986, Brands Hatch has maintained its significance in motorsport, hosting major series like DTM, World Superbikes, and the British Touring Car Championship. Under MSV's ownership, the circuit continues to thrive as one of Britain's premier racing venues, combining modern facilities with its historically challenging layout featuring the iconic Paddock Hill Bend and natural amphitheater setting.

The circuit continues to host major national and international events while maintaining its position as one of Britain's premier motorsport venues, known for its challenging nature and excellent spectator viewing.