Abingdon Airfield

Abingdon Airfield, located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom, is a former Royal Air Force (RAF) base that has been repurposed into a versatile motorsport venue. It operates as a non-permanent circuit primarily hosting track days, driving experiences, and specialist motorsport events. The site remains an active Ministry of Defence (MOD) facility and is also utilizedfor glider training.

Circuit Layout & Key Specifications

Abingdon Airfield offers multiple track configurations utilizing its extensive runways and perimeter roads.

• Track Length: Commonly 1.8 miles (2.896 km)or 1.57 miles (2.52 km), depending on the specific layout in use.
• Track Direction: Clockwise.
• Number of Corners: Typically 8 for a standard track day layout.
• Surface: High-quality, smooth airfield-grade tarmac.
• Configuration: Non-permanent, with layouts defined by cones and barriers, subject to change for different events.
• Noise Limit: Strict static noise limit of 100dB(A), measured at 0.5 meters and 4500 rpm.

Track Characteristics

The circuit is characterized by a blend of technical corner sequences and long straights, allowing for high speeds oftenexceeding 100 mph. Its airfield origins provide extensive run-off areas, enhancing safety and making it a suitable venue for drivers of all experience levels, including beginners. The tarmac surface provides considerable grip, allowing drivers to explore vehicle performance.

Key Corners

Given its non-permanent nature and variable layouts, Abingdon Airfield does not feature universally named or iconic corners with established technical descriptions. The circuit typically incorporates a variety of turns, from sweeping bends to tighter technical sections, integrated into the airfield's existing infrastructure.

Lap Record & Performance BenchmarksAs Abingdon Airfield primarily functions as a track day and driving experience venue, official competitive racing series are generally not held, and a formal overall fastest lap record is not maintained. Events typically cater to road-legal vehicles, precluding dedicated race cars and thus competitive lap record attempts. Performance benchmarks are usually individual achievements during track day sessions.

Racing History & Major Events

Abingdon Airfield was originally opened in 1932 as an RAF training station and served the Royal Air Force for 60 years until 1992. Following its military tenure, it gained a newlease of life as a motorsport destination. The venue regularly hosts car and motorcycle track days, driving experiences featuring supercars, classic cars, and even trucks. Notable annual events include the Abingdon CAR-nival, a motorsport weekend organized for charity that incorporates sprints and rallies. The site has also historically accommodated motorcycle racing.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Facilitiesat Abingdon Airfield are typical of a non-permanent motorsport venue.

• Paddock: Primarily tarmac or grass verges.
• Toilets: Portable toilet facilities are commonly provided.
• Catering: Mobile catering, such as burger bars, is often available on event days.
• Parking: Ample parking space is usually available for visitorsand participants.
• Support Services: Basic support infrastructure for track days, with limited permanent power and water connections in paddock areas.

Spectator Experience

Spectator amenitiesat Abingdon Airfield include designated viewing areas. While some event layouts might offer distant viewing points for certain activities like sprints, efforts are made to provide safe vantage points.Refreshment facilities are typically on-site. The accessible, mostly level terrain, consisting of tarmac and grass, aids spectator mobility.

Location & Accessibility

Abingdon Airfield is situated in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom.

• Address: Abingdon Airfield, Honeybotton Lane, Dry Sandford, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX13 6BX. (Note: Alternative postcodes like OX13 6JQmay be used for different gates or events, so it's advisable to check event-specific instructions).
• Road Access: The circuit is convenientlylocated within easy reach of the M40 motorway, positioned south of Oxford.
• Public Transport: The nearest train station is Radley, approximately a 12-minute taxi ride away.
• Local Amenities: Petrol stations, hotels, and bed & breakfasts are available within a 10-minute drive of the circuit.

Summary

Abingdon Airfield is a dynamic motorsport venue in Oxfordshire, UK, repurposed from a former RAF base. It features a non-permanent, clockwise circuit with variable layouts, typically around 1.8 miles longwith 8 corners, characterized by a mix of technical sections and long straights on high-quality tarmac. Primarily used for track days and driving experiences, it offers extensive run-off areas and accommodates speeds exceeding 100 mph.The venue hosts regular motorsport events, including the Abingdon CAR-nival, and provides basic spectator and participant facilities.