Oulton Park Circuit

The roar of engines at Oulton Park is something else entirely - this proper racing circuit near Tarporley in Cheshire has been hosting motorsport events since 1953, and it still pulls in serious enthusiasts and casual spectators alike. The track itself is a 2.2-mile loop that winds through the Cheshire countryside, and depending on what's on, you'll either be watching touring cars, motorcycles, or club-level racing. The atmosphere on event days is electric - grandstands packed, smell of fuel hanging in the air, and drivers pushing their machines to the limit around those tight corners.

This is absolutely not for everyone, and that's fine. If you're a petrol-head or have kids mad about cars, you'll love it. If racing leaves you cold, there's honestly not much point making the trip. Admission varies wildly depending on what's running - some events are free to spectate from certain areas, others cost a fair bit. Check their website before you go because the calendar fills up with everything from major championships to amateur club days.

Allow a couple of hours minimum if you're visiting on race day, longer if you're staying all day. The track has a decent café and bar setup, though don't expect fine dining. Tarporley is just down the road if you need proper amenities. If you're parked at one of the local holiday sites like Holmston Hall or New Farm Cheshire Holidays, Oulton Park makes for a cracking half-day outing when the weather's dodgy and you want something different.