Silverstone Track Guide: Everything You Need to Know for April 19th

Japfest is back at Silverstone Circuit on April 19, and it’s shaping up to be an absolute monster. If you’re heading out on the tarmac this is your essential guide to mastering the iconic National Circuit and making the most of your track session.

Track Action: The Heart of Japfest

Let’s be real, track action is what takes Japfest to the next level. From lightly tuned street builds to full-on track weapons, this is your chance to unleash your car on one of the UK’s most legendary circuits. Sessions are priced at £40 (only a few remain), making it one of the most accessible ways to experience Silverstone’s tarmac. And remember Passenger Passes are available for just £10.

The Silverstone National Circuit: Quick Lowdown

• Length: 1.64 miles
• Corners: 6
• Used by: Major series like the British Touring Car Championship
• Key Corners: Copse, Maggotts, Brooklands, Luffield, Woodcote

This layout blends high-speed commitment with technical precision, giving you a proper taste of pro-level motorsport in your own car.

The Paperwork

Before you even get to Japfest, you’ll be sent final instructions, which will give you a recommended signing on time. Now you need to head to Track Time Sign-On, located in pit garages 2, 3, and 4, making sure you bring your driving licence, all required paperwork, and your DVLA licence check code (which you can obtain online in advance). If you have a European licence and can’t obtain a DVLA check code, these will be inspected by Silverstone for approval. Once signed on, you’ll be given your track time session number, which you’ll need to display in your vehicle. make your way to the track briefing room in the Race Control building, briefings run every 20 minutes, so if your session is scheduled for the afternoon, it’s best to avoid the busy morning briefings and attend one closer to your track time. Once you’ve been briefed you’ll get your wristband – you will not be allowed on track without it.

Getting On Track 

Your session kicks off in the assembly area near the Medical Centre. Follow the ‘Track Time’ signs, you won’t be using the traditional pit lane. Once released, you’ll head out behind a Safety Car, joining at Brooklands. No overtaking here use these laps to lean the flow of the track and warm your tyres, brakes and engine. When the Safety Car pulls in after Luffield, your session begins.

Corner-by-Corner Breakdown

1. Copse Corner

Fast, committed, and iconic. A slight brake tap before turn-in, clip the apex kerb, and get back on power early. Nail this and you’ll carry serious speed down the next section.

2. Maggotts

Awkward but crucial. Stay disciplined, overdriving here kills your exit speed. Brake hard in a straight line, keep it tight, and prioritise a clean run onto the straight.

3. Wellington Straight

Flat-out territory. Let the car stretch its legs, but stay aware of faster traffic approaching from behind.

4. Brooklands

A late apex is key. Turn in too early and you compromise the entire sequence. Focus on patience and positioning.

5. Luffield

Smooth inputs are essential. Tight entry, steady throttle, and controlled steering will keep the car balanced through the corner.

6. Woodcote

Deceptively simple. Keep steering inputs minimal and focus on a clean exit to maximise speed onto the straight.

Build Speed, Not Ego

The biggest mistake is pushing too hard too early. The quickest drivers are the most consistent. Build pace gradually, learn the circuit, and improve with each lap.

Pro Tips for Your Session

• Check your car before heading out: Brakes, Tyres, and Fluids
• Don’t have any loose objects in the car
• If you have glass headlights, these will need to be taped
• Respect track limits to avoid penalties
• Stay aware of other drivers at all times
• Use cool-down laps to manage temperatures and preserve your car

Final Word

Japfest at Silverstone isn’t just a car show, it’s a full track experience. The National Circuit gives you the chance to drive where legends have raced, pushing your car in a safe environment alongside other enthusiasts. April 19 is your opportunity to get out on track at one of the UK’s most iconic venues. If you’ve missed out on Track Time at Japfest, why not book a session at TRAX on the 16th of August? There is no cheaper way to experience the Silverstone circuit.