‘Lap of Lights’ festive illuminations open at the Silverstone circuit

Silverstone’s Lap of Lights festive track tour has been officially opened by Anthony Davidson at the wheel of the World Championship-winning Mercedes-AMG Petronas W10 Formula 1 car.   

The Lap of Lights is an unique attraction at the famous motor circuit, which families can enjoy from the comfort of their own cars from 26 November until 3 January. Billed as the UK’s only light and laser drive, Silverstone says this year visitors will be able to travel from Silverstone to San Francisco, Paris to the Pyramids and get ready to follow Santa on his epic, globe-hopping adventure.

The Mercedes-AMG Petronas team embraced the Christmas spirit at the official opening on 25 November, decorating their car in festive lights. Spectators at the preview event included invited NHS and Emergency Service employees and their families as well as staff from Silverstone. 

On completion of the opening laps, the 2019 Formula 1 World Championship-winning Mercedes driven by Davidson came to a halt on Hamilton Straight for a visit from Santa.

Silverstone Managing Director, Stuart Pringle, commented “Anthony and Mercedes-AMG Petronas have put on a great show and I could not think of a more fitting way to open Lap of Lights. I have had to reassure Father Christmas that the rest of our nights will be run at a more subdued pace as I think he got a bit of a shock this evening when he saw the W10 approach his grotto at speed! After 11 months of planning it is great to see so many families here having fun and I look forward to welcoming many more over the festive period.”

Now open to the public, the Lap of Lights event is billed as ‘fun for all the family’. As well as the chance to drive around the circuit to view the light and laser show, visitors can also have a go at ice skating in the Formula 1 pit lane and garages, while the Lodge features festive activities such as axe throwing, curling and music. There’s also a children’s cinema and a ‘Santa’s letter’ corner. For more info visit the Silverstone website.

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