British Grand Prix: Top tips if you're going

Cars take the first bend as they pass the new pit facility during last year's British Grand Prix Credit: PA

The eyes of the sporting world will be transfixed on Silverstone this Sundaywhen the iconic Northamptonshire circuit plays host to the British Grand Prix.

There is no World Cup, nor is there a European Championships this summer. Wimbledon is a week later, too, meaning the men's singles' showdown will not clash with the Formula One race. The Ashes does not get under way until Wednesday.

Round nine of the championship really should take centre stage on Sunday and organisers are expecting a record-breaking 140,000 crowd, with many more expected over the course of the weekend for practice and qualifying.

Lewis Hamilton will surpass Sir Jackie Stewart's 45-year-old record ofleading 17 consecutive races if he heads the field for at least one front-running lap in Sunday's race. And on the basis of his form this season, that is highly likely.

The reigning world champion already has four wins to his name this season and leads the drivers' world championship by 10 points from team-mate Nico Rosberg.

With a dominant Mercedes car which has failed to win on only one occasion this year, Silverstone's paying spectators will expect a repeat of his 2008 and 2014 British Grand Prix victories.

Lewis Hamilton celebrates his 2014 British Grand Prix win with his team Credit: PA
Lewis Hamilton celebrates his 2014 British Grand Prix win with the fans Credit: PA
Hamilton fans will be hoping for more of the same in 2015 Credit: PA

So if you are going to the British Grand Prix for the first time this weekend, what do you need to know?

Top tips for the British Grand Prix

  • Getting to the Circuit

Driving

Parking at the circuit is permitted Friday, Saturday and Sunday with a circuit parking pass. Silverstone has warned owners of vehicles not displaying the correct parking pass will be subject to a fixed penalty fee.

To make the journey as quick as possible, fans are advised not to use a sat nav when approaching Silverstone. Instead follow the signposts that are situated on local roads and on the M1 and M40.

For full directions, head to the Silverstone website.

The car parks get pretty full at Silverstone on Grand Prix weekend Credit: PA

Megabus

Megabus have a number of routes to Silverstone during the British Grand Prix weekend.

Buses are available from:

  • London

  • Sheffield

  • Nottingham

  • Birmingham

  • Manchester

  • Oxford

  • Cambridge

  • Liverpool

  • Brighton

  • Plus many more locations

Bus

Local bus services will be operating throughout the weekend, from Milton Keynes and Northampton. There is no need to book, just turn up and pay the driver. Download the MK1 and N1 Stagecoach service timetable here.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available at all train stations. There will also be a taxi and private hire vehicle drop off and collection point on Brackley Road in Silverstone village. Fans are advised to book return taxis from Silverstone in advance.

Park and Ride

Park and Ride is now sold out. Circuit bosses have urged fans to take careful note of the colour of their Park and Ride pass, as this will determine the bus designated to and from your site. The pass is required for both your inbound and outbound journey.

  • Remember your binoculars!

There are several giant screen dotted around the circuit showing spectators the world feed being watched by millions at home on their sofa.

Giant screens help fans follow the action around the track Credit: Joe Davies

But viewing the screens and cars properly from a distance can be made much easier with the aid of binoculars.

  • Take a pocket-sized radio

If this weekend is your first trip to a Grand Prix you may miss the TV commentary guiding you on proceedings. But take a pocket-sized radio and you can tune into Silverstone Radio on 87.7 FM for full commentary on the Grand Prix and the rest of the weekend's support races.

  • Ear plugs

Modern day F1 cars are not quite as loud as they once were. But you may nevertheless find the experience more enjoyable if you pack some ear plugs!