Smeatharpe, also known as RAF Upottery, is a former World War II airfield in Exeter, Devon which famously appeared in an episode of the HBO TV series Band of Brothers. Also on site is the banger racing venue Smeatharpe Stadium.
Smeatharpe is a former World War II airfield near Honiton, so as you may expect, what facilities are available are limited. However, there is an open air spectator viewing area, and access to pit area - visitors and their guests are thus advised to dress and prepare accordingly for the weather. There is also a variety of hot and cold food and drinks served as refreshments.
2017 was the first time that the runway was used for Supercar Driving Experiences and brought these awesome events closer to the people of Devon and Cornwall who previously would have had to travel much further. But now TrackDays.co.uk is giving you the chance to pilot some of the world’s most desirable supercars along its runway.
While these cars might not actually have jet engines, the speed at which they are capable of accelerating will make you think they had! For instance, the Ariel Atom has been measured going from 0-60mph in well under three seconds, putting it among the world’s elite for acceleration times.
Other world-famous marques at your disposal include Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Aston Martin, Nissan GTR and Audi R8. Its wide runway also makes it the perfect place for drifting, with plenty of runoff area if required.
Among the Drifting options available are a half-day experience or a blast experience, both giving you the chance to drift to your heart’s content in a drift spec Nissan 350Z. For those who want to experience the thrill of drifting but prefer to let someone else take the wheel, there’s a hot lap experience. It’s ideal for youngsters and it’s not unknown for children as young as five to enjoy the action.
Stars of the silver screen, or should that be cars of the silver screen, can also be driven. Movie fans have the opportunity to drive two of their favourite Famous Movie Cars and rekindle their love of such films including Smokey and the Bandit, Transformers and Gone in 60 Seconds. Just make sure the popcorn is put somewhere safe!
Junior Drivers are also well catered for. Just like the adults, some of the best supercars in the world can now be their favourite plaything, at least temporarily. Safety is paramount as youngsters from just 11 years old can experience the thrill of driving a Lamborghini Gallardo or Porsche 911, among other models. Could this be the ultimate birthday present? We think so.
Conveniently located close to the M5 motorway, Smeatharpe is one of the south west’s most easily accessible venues for driving experiences for people travelling from Devon and Cornwall. You can either purchase an open Gift Voucher or book directly onto a date from our Smeatharpe Stadium Experience Calendar. The choice is yours!