SWB Experience Days: Military and Motorsport Driving Adventures in Bicester

Immersive Military Vehicle Experiences

SWB Experience Days is renowned for its unique and exhilarating military vehicle driving experiences. Visitors have the rare opportunity to take the controls of authentic military vehicles such as the Alvis CVR(T) Spartan tank, Leyland DAF 45/150 truck, and the Dennis Sabre XL fire engine. These vehicles offer a hands-on chance to experience the power and handling of heavy-duty military machinery on specially designed off-road tracks. The Spartan tank, known for its agility and combat history, provides a thrilling driving experience that includes manoeuvring over challenging terrain. The Leyland DAF truck, with its robust 6-ton empty weight and 4-ton payload capacity, showcases the might of military logistics vehicles, while the Dennis Sabre fire engine adds a unique emergency vehicle driving challenge with no power steering and an old-fashioned gearbox.

Motorsport Thrills and Racing Heritage

Beyond military vehicles, SWB Experience Days also offers motorsport driving experiences, including single-seater formula cars and high-performance two-seater vehicles driven by expert instructors. These experiences cater to adrenaline seekers who want to feel the rush of race car driving on a professionally laid out track. The team behind SWB Motorsport has a rich racing pedigree, having competed in UK series such as Formula Renault and FIA Formula 4. This heritage translates into expert tuition and a safe yet exciting environment for participants to push their limits and enjoy high-speed thrills.

Expert Instruction and Welcoming Atmosphere

The staff at SWB Experience Days are widely praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and knowledge. Instructors provide detailed briefings and hands-on guidance to ensure safety and maximize enjoyment for drivers of all skill levels. The welcoming atmosphere extends to families and groups, with options for passengers to ride along in many vehicles for an additional fee. The team’s passion for military and motorsport vehicles is evident, and they often share interesting facts and stories about the vehicles and the site’s history.

Facilities and Visitor Comfort

Located at Building 111, Bicester Heritage, the site offers essential visitor amenities including clean restrooms and sheltered areas. While there are no extensive food and drink facilities on site, visitors can plan accordingly or enjoy refreshments in the nearby restaurant bus, where fresh food is prepared. The experience days operate mainly on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9 AM to 5 PM, with some days closed midweek. The outdoor setting on a former airfield provides ample space for driving challenges but visitors should dress warmly and wear sturdy footwear, especially in wet weather.

Unique and Memorable Gift Experiences

SWB Experience Days is a popular choice for gift vouchers and special occasion presents. Many visitors come to celebrate birthdays or milestones by driving tanks, fire engines, and trucks, creating lasting memories. The combination packages that include multiple vehicles are highly recommended for a comprehensive experience. Photography is often encouraged, with instructors taking photos to capture moments. The site also welcomes children from age 12 upwards for certain vehicles, making it a family-friendly destination for adventurous outings.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in Bicester, Oxfordshire, SWB Experience Days benefits from its proximity to London and the Midlands. The location within Bicester Heritage places it in a hub of automotive and aviation history, enhancing the overall visit. The site is accessible by car and public transport, though visitors should be prepared for outdoor terrain and variable weather conditions. The experience is suitable for a wide range of visitors, including families, solo travelers, and groups seeking an extraordinary driving adventure.