SWB Experience Days, Berkshire Travel Guide

4.4 (126)

Drive tanks, fire engines, and formula cars at SWB Experience Days, a thrilling military and automotive adventure in historic Bicester Heritage.

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SWB Experience Days

SWB Experience Days offers adrenaline-fueled driving experiences with military vehicles, fire engines, and formula cars at Bicester Heritage, Oxfordshire. Guests can drive tanks, army trucks, and classic fire engines on challenging off-road courses, or take part in single-seater formula car sessions. Located in a historic RAF bomber station setting, this unique attraction combines automotive heritage with thrilling hands-on adventures for all ages.

A brief summary to SWB Experience Days

Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring SWB Experience Days.

Bring a valid UK driving licence if you plan to drive vehicles; drivers must be at least 18 years old for tanks and heavy trucks.
Book experiences in advance, especially for popular options like tank firing and formula car sessions.
Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes suitable for driving and outdoor activities.
Consider combining your visit with exploring Bicester Heritage’s automotive museums and classic car events nearby.

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Explore SWB Experience Days on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near SWB Experience Days, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

Take a bus from Stratford-upon-Avon Bus Station towards Bicester Heritage. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Upon arrival, walk to Building 111 where SWB Experience Days is located.
Car

Driving to SWB Experience Days via Buckingham Road, Bicester, typically takes 20-30 minutes from central Bicester. Parking may be limited during busy events, so early arrival is recommended.
Walking

For visitors staying nearby in Bicester Heritage, walking to Building 111 takes about 10-15 minutes over flat terrain, suitable for most fitness levels.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
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Discover more about SWB Experience Days

A Unique Venue Rooted in Aviation and Automotive Heritage

SWB Experience Days is located within Bicester Heritage, a site steeped in history as a former RAF Bomber station from the 1920s. This historic backdrop enriches the experience, blending the legacy of British aviation with a passion for classic and military vehicles. The restored buildings and grounds provide an atmospheric setting where visitors can immerse themselves in motoring history while enjoying modern driving thrills.

Driving Military and Service Vehicles

The core attraction at SWB Experience Days is the opportunity to drive or ride in authentic military and service vehicles. The fleet includes the Alvis CVR(T) Spartan tank, Leyland DAF 45/150 heavy truck, Dennis Sabre XL fire engine, and other classic vehicles like the Bedford MJ flatbed and the Bedford 'Green Goddess' fire engine. Drivers navigate off-road courses designed to test vehicle handling and driver skill, including obstacle challenges and emergency manoeuvres. For those 12 and older, junior hovercraft and mini tanks add a playful dimension.

Tank Firing and Tactical Driving Experiences

A standout feature is the Scorpion tank firing experience, where participants work as a team to drive and fire the tank’s 76mm gun at targets. Drivers must manoeuvre tactically to assist the gunner, offering an immersive military simulation. This experience lasts about 30 minutes and includes three shots at the target, combining precision, teamwork, and adrenaline.

Formula Car and Supercar Thrills

Beyond military vehicles, SWB Experience Days offers high-speed thrills with single-seater formula cars and supercars. Visitors can book taster or extended sessions in Formula Ford 1600 or turbocharged Formula Ford EcoBoost cars, feeling the rush of racing on a dedicated track. Supercar experiences feature iconic marques like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren, providing a premium driving adventure under expert instruction.

Family-Friendly and Inclusive Adventure

The attraction welcomes families, groups, and individuals, with experiences tailored for various ages and skill levels. Passengers can join drivers in many vehicles, making it a shared adventure. The staff are experienced and supportive, ensuring safety and enjoyment throughout. The venue’s location within Bicester Heritage also connects visitors to a broader automotive culture and heritage.

Immersive Off-Road Challenges and Vehicle Variety

SWB Experience Days boasts a diverse vehicle fleet from different eras, including heavy-duty NATO trucks and classic British fire engines without modern power steering, offering authentic driving challenges. Off-road courses simulate rugged terrain to test vehicle capabilities and driver control. This variety ensures every visit is unique, combining history, adrenaline, and hands-on fun.