Silverstone Lap of Lights returns for unique Christmas adventure

There is something special in the air as it begins to look like Christmas. It’s not just because there is a new British Formula 1 world champion in Lando Norris, but simply as Silverstone has now returned with its much-loved Lap of Lights.

The event made its debut in 2020 as one of the first COVID-safe attractions, offering visitors a wonderful opportunity to drive around the historic circuit that has been graced by legends. It’s thus no surprise that the event started off with huge success, because what other sporting venue offers such accessibility? Can England football fans stand and play on the hallowed turf of Wembley Stadium, likewise with the rugby crowd at Twickenham?

No is the answer, but Lap of Lights offers the chance to drive around Copse, the corner where that collision between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen occurred, or cross the finish line that has given victory to the likes of Alain Prost and Michael Schumacher. The event returned in 2021, once again proving a success, before a short break for the following three years ahead of its grand return from today (12 December) to 3 January.

So what’s on offer? To start with the main attraction, in their own respective cars visitors can take to the illuminated circuit which has 10 stunning light attractions that immerse oneself in festival colour, sound and energy. Titles of these light attractions range from Reindeer Raceway, Candy Cane Curve to Twinkle Tunnel with each section dotted around the two-mile circuit and it is all powered by over 7,000 LED panels and 35 laser shows and will take around 30 minutes.

It’s quite frankly incredible what has Silverstone turned into because it’s almost got that northern lights feel to it, showing it doesn’t have to be a White Christmas for this time of year to be special. But Lap of Lights offers so much more than just an opportunity to drive the track, because this is an all-round package.

In the F1 garages, for example, fans can strap on a pair of skates to glide down the Ice Trak, with friendly penguin aids that are also available for young ones showing how much of a family adventure this can be. That is especially highlighted through Santa Claus coming to town with his own grotto. This is new for 2025 and is filled with immersive activities that includes building one’s own LEGO masterpiece, unleashing creativity at the design-your-own-sleigh station or sitting down for story time with the main man.

Silverstone Lap of Lights

Photo by: Silverstone

It is the ultimate family adventure and will no doubt create memories that last a lifetime. You know another memory that would last a lifetime? Attending the 2026 British Grand Prix in July. One has the chance to attend through a competition, where entry is done by using the promo code ‘25MOTORLAP while booking a Lap of Lights ticket.

That is obviously a tremendous prize, so there’s little reason not to attend this Christmas. Especially because at Silverstone, visitors can also indulge in their festive favourites from burgers and German sausages to mulled wine and hot chocolate to create that special buzz.

There is simply so much to do at Silverstone this Christmas and of course its museum remains open so fans can always start - or end - with that, while enjoying a day out at the Lap of Lights. But don’t think for one second that you must attend with a date, because there’s nothing wrong with being lonely this Christmas.

Slots are quickly filling up, so visit the Silverstone website to book your place now with the price of a lap costing £50 per car, meaning that money can cover the whole group. The skating, meanwhile, is £10 and it is £18 for Santa’s Garage, which is also free for adults and those under the age of two.

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