Donington Park Track Days.
Private Motorsport Experiences with Merrills Motorsport.
Drive one of Britain's most storied circuits in a machine built for the purpose.
Ninety Years of Racing History on This Tarmac
Britain's first purpose-built Race Track
Donington Park opened in 1931, making it Britain's first permanent purpose-built racing circuit.
By 1937, it was drawing the German Silver Arrows - Auto Union and Mercedes-Benz - and 60,000 spectators to watch Bernd Rosemeyer and Tazio Nuvolari do battle on these same corners.
The circuit closed when war came, requisitioned by the Ministry of Defence as the largest military vehicle depot in the country - housing up to 500,000 vehicles at its peak. Racing didn't return until Tom Wheatcroft, a Leicestershire-born builder who had watched the 1937 and 1938 Grands Prix as a young man, bought the land in 1971, and spent years - and a personal fortune - restoring it.
His reward came on 11 April 1993. Ayrton Senna - in the wet, on cold tyres, from fifth on the grid - overtook four cars on the opening lap to lead the Grand Prix. It remains one of the most celebrated laps in Formula One history. Donington has hosted just one World Championship round. Senna made certain it was unforgettable.
The circuit today runs 2.498 miles in Grand Prix configuration. Craner Curves, the Old Hairpin, the Esses, Coppice - every corner carries history.
It is not a track that flatters. It rewards. It rewards commitment, which is exactly what makes a day here worth having
What to Expect at Donington Park
Donington Park sits at the heart of England - minutes from the M1 at Junction 23a, with East Midlands Airport less than two miles from the paddock entrance.
Helicopter landing is available on-site for those arriving by air.
Parking is extensive and complimentary.
Your Merrills experience coordinator will arrange paddock passes and circuit access in advance so there is nothing to organise on arrival.
The Garage 39 restaurant and bar sits at the centre of the paddock - a modern facility with pit lane views, available for private hire on selected dates.
For clients requiring a dedicated private space, the circuit's Pit Lane Suites vary in size and can accommodates up to 250 guests, with direct pit lane access. Your suite can be dressed entirely to your brief, for dining, presentations, awards ceremonies, or simply as a more refined space to relax between drives.
WiFi coverage extends across the pit garages and paddock. The circuit is fully accessible throughout.
We’ll handle everything. Your focus is the drive.
Explore More Circuits Around the World
Donington Park is one of 27 circuits available through Merrills Motorsport, spanning the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
Whether you're drawn to the history of Spa, the heat of Yas Marina, or a private test day closer to home, our team will arrange it around you.