We chat to Beki Challoner, head of visitor experience at Silverstone Museum in Northamptonshire, about what’s coming up this year and why non-racing fans can enjoy the experience.
Tell us about your role
I’ve had the pleasure of working here for nearly two years. My role is centred around creating an exceptional, memorable journey for every visitor who walks through our doors – from families to motorsport enthusiasts and everyone in between. I oversee the entire visitor journey, from planning and ticketing to the immersive experiences on-site, ensuring that each touchpoint reflects the excitement and legacy of British motorsport.
Silverstone Museum is a unique venue where people can explore the history and thrill of motorsport, and my role is to ensure that each visit is engaging, inspiring, and runs smoothly from start to finish.
What’s the one thing that all guests should look out for on a visit?
One highlight that I always encourage guests to look out for is the iconic Brawn GP car. It’s a must-see piece of motorsport history, that helped Jenson Button clinch his World Championship in 2009 and remains a fan favourite.
For groups who may not be into racing, what is there for them to enjoy?
For groups who may not be die-hard racing fans, Silverstone Museum still has plenty to offer. Beyond the thrilling display of real F1 cars, our exhibits dive deep into the history and heritage of Silverstone, from its origins as an RAF airfield during World War Two to its evolution into a world-renowned racing circuit.
Our archive handling sessions allow visitors to get hands-on with historical artefacts - perfect for those interested in the broader stories of British motorsport and aviation history. It’s a rare chance to engage with authentic memorabilia and delve into the fascinating milestones that have shaped Silverstone’s legacy over the decades.
What’s your favourite part of the experience?
One part of the visitor experience I love is seeing guests interact with the Tech Lab. It’s always exciting to watch visitors of all ages light up as they discover the science and engineering behind motorsport.
The hands-on exhibits let everyone feel like part of the action, whether they’re testing reaction times or learning about the aerodynamics that make these cars so fast. But the real magic for me is when I see visitors on Luffield terrace, catching live track action for the first time.
There’s an undeniable thrill in watching someone witness the roar and speed of the cars on the track—an experience that connects them to the heart of Silverstone and its history.
When is the best time for groups to visit?
The best time for groups to visit is during the mornings, especially outside of peak racing season in late spring and summer. Visiting in the morning gives your group more time to explore at a comfortable pace and access to our interactive exhibits before the museum gets busier later in the day.
Starting in the morning also gives you time to take in the full exhibition and enjoy our shop and café, before maybe venturing off to our neighbours at Stowe, Canons Ashby, or even Blenheim Palace and Bicester Village. Plus, if you time your visit right, you might catch some live track action during these quieter times, which really enhances the experience.
Is there anything coming up this year that you’re excited about?
This year is set to be an incredibly exciting time at Silverstone Museum as we celebrate 75 years of the Formula 1 World Championship - a legacy that began right here at Silverstone in 1950.
We’re thrilled to showcase an incredible line-up of cars from every decade, highlighting the evolution of F1 from its earliest days to the modern marvels we see today. This special exhibition will take visitors on a journey through the sport’s remarkable advancements in technology, safety, and performance, as well as the thrilling stories behind iconic moments and championship battles.
It’s a fantastic opportunity for guests of all ages to witness first-hand how far the sport has come and to celebrate the heritage and innovation that make Silverstone the heart of British motor racing. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience, and we can’t wait to share it with our visitors.
For more information about group visits to Silverstone Museum, visit www.silverstonemuseum.co.uk.