Brands Hatch Circuit Guide
Brands Hatch is one of those unique and eclectic UK circuits that nobody would ever build now. How many circuits do you know with a first corner that’s as exciting as the last one?!
Kent’s Brands Hatch has hosted some epic races that have seen championships go down to the very last exit of Clearways. What’s even better? It’s even more exciting to ride it, especially the Grand Prix layout…
OWNER: MotorSport Vision (MSV)
CIRCUIT LENGTH: Indy Circuit: 1.208M (1.944KM) | GP Circuit: 2.433M (3.916KM)
NOISE LIMIT: Check our Circuit Noise Limits page
MOTORCYCLE CIRCUIT RECORD: GP: Josh Brookes (British Superbike) – 1:24.873 (2017) / Indy: Luke Mossey (British Superbike) – 45.314 (2017)
TDA DIFFICULTY RATING: INDY - THREE (3/5), GP - FOUR (4/5)
Click here to jump to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Brands Hatch, e.g. are there garages/electrics, can you camp and is there any hook-up, can you buy fuel at the circuit or nearby?
Location & Directions📍
CIRCUIT ADDRESS: Brands Hatch Circuit, Fawkham, Longfield, Kent, DA3 8NG
CIRCUIT LOCATION: Link to Google Maps
TDA Track Day Calendars
Check out the TDA Track Day Calendars for events to book at this circuit or any other UK or European circuit from the various track day organisers, all in one place for your convenience:
Circuit History
Brands Hatch is arguably the most recognisable circuit in the UK. Its history dates back to 1926, when it began as a simple grass track for cyclists and cross-country runners. Motorcyclists soon followed, carving out the "kidney-shaped" dirt track that would eventually become the Indy circuit.
The venue saw a massive transformation in 1950 when it was paved for car racing, eventually hosting 12 runnings of the British Formula One Grand Prix between 1964 and 1986 (Nigel Mansell won his first F1 race here…).
For motorcycle fans, Brands Hatch became the "spiritual home" of World Superbikes in the 1990s and early 2000s, where massive crowds (we were there!) would flock to see the likes of Carl Fogarty dominate on his Ducati.
Today, it is owned by Jonathan Palmer’s MotorSport Vision (MSV) and remains a staple of the British Superbike (BSB) calendar, often hosting the high-stakes season finale
MotorSport Vision (MSV) also own and operate Bedford Autodrome, Cadwell Park, Donington Park, Oulton Park and Snetterton in the UK – as well as Circuito de Navarra in Spain.
Circuit length and layout
Brands Hatch offers two distinct layouts that provide completely different riding experiences.
The Indy Circuit (1.208 miles) is a short, intense "bowl" that is physically demanding because you are almost always turning. It features the terrifying drop of Paddock Hill Bend, the uphill struggle to Druid's hairpin, and the technical off-camber Graham Hill Bend. Because the lap times are so short (often under 55 seconds for a fast group rider), it offers no rest, making it a fantastic workout for both bike and rider.
The GP Circuit (2.433 miles) includes the full Indy loop but breaks away after Surtees to head into the woodland. This section is legendary for its high-speed, high-commitment corners like Hawthorns, Westfield, and Sheene Curve. The GP layout is a "bucket list" experience for many, as it is only available for a limited number of days each year due to strict noise restrictions. We dare you not to duck your head as you go under the bridge on Pilgrim’s Drop.
What’s the best bike to ride at Brands Hatch?
Brands Hatch is a circuit where "bigger isn't always better," especially on the Indy layout.
On the Indy Circuit, supersports bikes and even MiniTwins often have the edge. The tight nature of the track with the bike barely upright (even the Brabham Straight isn’t straight!) means you’ll spend more time managing the throttle than pinned in top.
On the GP Circuit, a 1000cc superbike can stretch its legs. The long, fast sweepers through the woods allow high-horsepower machines to use their speed, though the technical nature of the Indy section still requires a bike that can turn quickly.
Advice for riding fast round Brands Hatch
If it’s your first time at Brands, the best advice is to respect Paddock Hill Bend. It is a blind apex with a significant compression at the bottom; if you get your line wrong, the bike can easily become unsettled. And the gravel is DEEP there…
Most track day providers at Brands (such as MSVT or No Limits) offer instruction. Booking a session with an instructor is highly recommended to learn the specific reference points for the blind entries. Another good thing about the Indy circuit is that you get a lot of laps due to its length.
For a visual guide, former British Superbike rider and Fast Bikes roadtester, Tim Neave, provides excellent on-board commentary for both the Indy and GP layouts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there camping at Brands Hatch?
Unlike Cadwell Park, camping for track days is generally not available on-site at Brands Hatch. Most riders stay at nearby hotels or find local campsites in the Kent countryside. However, for major race weekends (like BSB), official campsites are opened to the public.
Can I get petrol at Brands Hatch?
There is a single fuel pump located in the paddock, but its opening hours are inconsistent on track days and the price is significantly higher (no surprises!) than local stations.
The nearest fuel station: A Texaco garage is located just 2 minutes from the main entrance when you turn left when exiting the circuit and it is less than half a mile away on your left. There’s another option only four minutes away from the circuit when turning right out of the exit.
Are there garages at Brands Hatch?
Yes, Brands Hatch has a large, modern pit lane with plenty of garages. These are usually available to reserve in advance for a fee when booking your track day. Garages come equipped with power points for your tyre warmers and provide much-needed shelter if the Kent weather decides to turn.
If you can’t get a garage, there is a lot of hard standing in the paddock.
