| Location: | Nr Chippenham, Wiltshire |
| Circuit Length: | 1.84 Miles |
| Contact: | Castle Combe Circuit Chippenham Wiltshire SN14 7EY Tel.: 01249 782417 |
Castle Combe is amongst the favourites of most of the UKs club racers, it doesn't have the grandiose facilities that you might expect from the likes of Silverstone or Brands Hatch but it is by far one of the nicest, friendliest circuits in the country. It also happens to be one of the best locations for weather - often bringing it's own micro-climate with dry conditions even when the surrounding areas are deluged with rain thanks to its excellent location.
In terms of facilities it has just the basics - the paddock has a hard finish (mostly tarmac) although this is a relatively recent addition as is the new race control building which stands out somewhat in comparison with the rest of the buildings which still carry the air of more traditional club racing. The clubhouse is small but very cosy and definitely above average as is the food they serve. Merlin Motorsports reside in the paddock offering an excelent range of services and parts - everything that the average racer/trackdayer could need.
The circuit itself is well known for its fast straights and challenging corners. The addition of two chicanes just a few years ago originally upset some people but in reality the circuit is better for them. Overtaking is not easy and requires aforethought and planning. Most of the surface is very smooth but the last corner on the circuit has some rather nasty undulations in it that can catch out the unwary, a mistake here will place the car on the runoff area inbetween the pits and the circuit not an ideal place to be making a fool of yourself!
The spectator viewing areas are basic - promoting more of a picnic atmosphere than the usual grandstands although all of the areas are raised on banks providing excellent views. Despite the usually dry weather there is no excuse for not bringing suitable clothing as it can get quite windy and there is no shelter at all. Quarry and Camp are the two favourite viewing areas. Camp may not offer much by way of overtaking but it is spectacular to watch. Quarry/Avon is where most of the passing takes place - the maneuvers actually starting back at Camp.
Within the scope of the EuroSaloons/AutoItalia series this has traditionally been one of the series favourites but does no appear on the 2004 calendar. It is of course home to the Castle Combe Special GT series since it is the only venue for those races.