SWB Experience Days at Bicester Heritage
Drive tanks, fire engines, and military vehicles in thrilling off-road experiences at historic Bicester Heritage.
SWB Experience Days offers thrilling military and service vehicle driving experiences at Bicester Heritage, Oxfordshire. Drive tanks, fire engines, army trucks, and even hovercrafts on challenging off-road courses. Suitable for enthusiasts aged 12 and above, these unique experiences include firing a tank and passenger rides, set in a historic aviation heritage site.
A brief summary to SWB Experience Days
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your experience in advance, especially for weekends, as slots fill quickly.
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor and rugged terrain activities.
- Bring a camera to capture unique moments, but secure it well during driving.
- Check age and license requirements before booking; drivers must be 18+ with a valid UK license.
- Consider gifting a voucher for a memorable experience day for friends or family.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to SWB Experience Days from central Oxford takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes via the A34 and A41. Parking is available on-site free of charge. The route involves rural roads, so plan for potential seasonal traffic.
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Train and Taxi
Take a train to Bicester North station from London Marylebone or Oxford, with journey times ranging from 15 to 45 minutes. From Bicester North, a taxi ride of about 10 minutes will bring you to Bicester Heritage. Taxi fares typically range from £10 to £15.
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Bus
Bus services connect Bicester town centre with Bicester Heritage on Buckingham Road. The journey takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on service frequency. Check local timetables as weekend services may be limited.
SWB Experience Days location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about SWB Experience Days
A Unique Military Vehicle Driving Experience
SWB Experience Days is a premier destination for adrenaline seekers and military vehicle enthusiasts, located within the historic Bicester Heritage site in Oxfordshire. Established in 2016, the venue specializes in hands-on driving experiences with a diverse fleet of military and service vehicles. Visitors can get behind the wheel of tanks, fire engines, army trucks, amphibious load carriers, and even junior hovercrafts. This immersive offering allows participants to drive or ride as passengers, with some experiences available to children aged 12 and up.Historic Setting at Bicester Heritage
Situated on the grounds of the former RAF Bomber station from the 1920s, Bicester Heritage is steeped in aviation and automotive history. The site has been carefully preserved and repurposed as a hub for classic and military vehicle restoration and experiences. SWB Experience Days benefits from this atmospheric location, providing a unique backdrop that enhances the thrill of driving powerful military machinery on specially designed off-road courses.Fleet and Experience Highlights
The fleet includes the Alvis CVR(T) Spartan tank, Leyland DAF 45/150 truck, Dennis Sabre XL fire engine, and the Bedford MJ flatbed truck among others. Experiences range from single-vehicle drives to immersive packages combining multiple vehicles. Highlights include the opportunity to fire the Scorpion tank and navigate challenging obstacle courses such as the ‘brick wall test’ with the fire engine. The driving experiences typically last around 20 to 30 minutes, guided by experienced instructors ensuring safety and fun.Family-Friendly and Inclusive Adventure
SWB Experience Days welcomes families, groups, and individuals, offering activities suitable for a wide age range starting from 12 years old for passengers and 18 for drivers. The venue encourages participation from all backgrounds, with options for junior drivers and tandem experiences where one drives and another operates the gunner’s position. The friendly, knowledgeable staff provide thorough briefings and support throughout the experience.Event and Booking Flexibility
The site operates mainly on weekends with scheduled driving days, making it ideal for day trips or weekend getaways. Booking can be done online with options for gift vouchers, perfect for special occasions. The venue also offers the possibility to host private events or parties, bringing the excitement of military vehicle driving to group celebrations.Safety and Accessibility Considerations
All driving experiences are conducted under expert supervision with comprehensive safety briefings. Drivers must hold a full UK driving license and meet minimum age requirements. The off-road terrain is rugged and physically engaging, so participants should be prepared for an active and adventurous experience. The site is accessible by car and public transport, with facilities to support visitors’ comfort.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
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Weston Library
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New College Ln
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Bridge of Sighs
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Clarendon Building
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Bodleian Library
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The Sheldonian Theatre
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Bodleian Old Library
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History of Science Museum
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City Sightseeing Oxford
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The Oxford Ghost Tour
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Martyrs' Memorial
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The Queen's College
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Radcliffe Camera
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A majestic 18th-century neoclassical rotunda, the Radcliffe Camera is Oxford’s iconic library landmark and a symbol of academic heritage.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bicester Village
2.9 km
Luxury designer outlet village with 150+ boutiques, up to 70% off, and festive charm near Oxford.
The Old Flight House
7.6 km
Explore a stylish emporium of antiques, vintage treasures, and a charming café in a spacious, light-filled setting near Bicester.
National Trust - Boarstall Tower
10.7 km
Explore Boarstall Tower, a stunning 14th-century moated gatehouse steeped in medieval legend and civil war history, set in serene Buckinghamshire gardens.
Brill Windmill
11.8 km
Explore Brill Windmill, a majestic 17th-century post mill perched atop Buckinghamshire’s hills, embodying centuries of rural milling heritage and craftsmanship.
National Trust - Claydon
12.5 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
Claydon Estate
12.5 km
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
Finemere Wood
12.9 km
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
St Rumbold's Well
13.2 km
Discover the ancient sacred spring of Saint Rumbold, a medieval pilgrimage site steeped in legend and local heritage in Buckingham.
National Trust - Buckingham Chantry Chapel
13.9 km
Discover Buckingham’s oldest building, a medieval chapel with a Norman doorway, rich history, and a charming second-hand bookshop.
Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust
13.9 km
Explore centuries of Buckinghamshire’s military heritage within the historic Old Gaol, a unique museum blending local history and immersive exhibits.
Buckingham Old Gaol
14.0 km
Explore Buckingham’s historic former prison, a compact museum revealing the town’s rich social and legal heritage through immersive exhibits.
National Trust - Stowe Gardens
15.0 km
A masterpiece of 18th-century landscape design, where classical temples rise from sweeping parkland and serpentine lakes.
Pebble Alcove
15.1 km
Explore Pebble Alcove in Buckingham, a stunning landmark that combines unique architecture with serene natural beauty for a perfect getaway.
Temple of British Worthies
15.3 km
Discover the Temple of British Worthies in Buckingham, a landmark celebrating revered figures of British history amidst beautiful gardens.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
15.4 km
Step back in time at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, where historic steam trains, a stunning glass-roofed Visitor Centre, and family events bring railway heritage to life.
Essential places to dine
Cecconi's Bicester
2.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and artisanal dishes in the stylish heart of Bicester Village.
Nut Tree Inn
8.9 km
Michelin-starred fine dining meets historic charm in the heart of Oxfordshire’s countryside at The Nut Tree Inn.
CANALETTO
10.9 km
Authentic Italian dining with Mediterranean charm in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Bicester Road, Kingswood.
The Orangery at RH England
11.7 km
Elegant live-fire dining in a grand orangery with scenic deer park views and refined, high-quality cuisine in Aynho Park.
Beefeater Buckingham
13.6 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly grill in Buckingham offering hearty meals, welcoming service, and a lively casual atmosphere.
Allium Dining
14.8 km
Intimate farm-to-table dining in Buckinghamshire, where seasonal British produce meets creative culinary artistry.
The Old Thatched Inn
15.2 km
A charming thatched gastropub in Adstock offering quality local cuisine and cozy countryside ambiance.
The Five Arrows
16.5 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
Pompette
17.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and warm hospitality in Oxford’s charming Summertown at Pompette, a refined brasserie with seasonal delights.
The Oxford Kitchen
17.8 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Oxford with refined British cuisine, exceptional value, and unpretentious elegance.
Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant
18.1 km
Elegant riverside dining and punting on the historic River Cherwell in Oxford’s charming Edwardian boathouse.
The Pilgrim Pub
18.1 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
The Angel Restaurant
18.2 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
18.7 km
Sophisticated British and Continental dining in a Victorian mansion, with 1 AA Rosette acclaim and a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Gees Restaurant & Bar
18.8 km
Oxford's iconic glasshouse restaurant where Mediterranean cuisine meets Victorian elegance and timeless charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Meadow Walk Shopping Centre
14.1 km
A charming compact shopping centre in Buckingham featuring independent shops, cafes, and convenient parking in a friendly community setting.
Gatineau Artisan Patisserie & Bakery
17.8 km
Authentic French artisan patisserie in Oxford’s Summertown, crafting exquisite pastries, breads, and bespoke cakes with premium ingredients.
Beautifully Different Winslow
17.8 km
Discover original flair and stylish ladies' fashion at Beautifully Different Winslow, a charming boutique in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s historic market town.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
19.6 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
The Retro Room
19.6 km
Discover Oxford’s stylish hub for vintage and designer second-hand fashion, blending sustainability with unique finds in a welcoming boutique setting.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
19.7 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
Antiques On High Oxford L.T.D.
19.7 km
Explore a charming antique shop in Oxford, offering a curated selection of unique vintage treasures that tell stories of the past.
Oxford Souvenirs
19.7 km
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Cool Britannia
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Babylon Trading
19.7 km
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Broad Canvas
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Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Oxford Campus Stores
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Watsons of Oxford
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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The Shop of Secrets
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Kings Head Coffee & Gin Bar
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The Grand Junction
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The Duke Of Cambridge
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Jude The Obscure
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Lamb and Flag
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The Rickety Press
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LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
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Turf Tavern
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King's Arms, Oxford
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White Horse
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The Cape Of Good Hope
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The Grapes
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The Three Goats Heads Pub
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Sandy's Piano Bar
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All Bar One Oxford
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fever Oxford
19.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
19.9 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
20.1 km
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Oxford Leisure Ltd
20.1 km
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ATIK Oxford
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Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
20.2 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Mirage Aylesbury
24.7 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
Garudaa
29.3 km
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Pink Punters
30.5 km
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TWC
31.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Elysium
39.1 km
Northampton’s premier late-night nightclub for house, bass, and tech house music, famed as the city’s official after-party hotspot.
Stereo Bar and Club
39.2 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
NB's
39.2 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
Club43
39.2 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
The Platform
39.3 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Lively
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly