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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 09 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Annabelle Thorpe

Whether you want a (Mercedes) fast car racing experience around the iconic Brooklands racetrack, or to ogle the supercars in the three floors of exhibition spaces, Mercedes Benz World is heaven for car enthusiasts. Petrolheads of all ages can hone their skills on race car simulators, while younger children have their own indoor race track.

Driving experiences include track days and off-roading, and there are ‘driven’ experiences for those who want to feel the speed without actually being behind the wheel. There are also displays by the Silver Arrows, 3D footage and an amazing Formula One art installation, alongside displays of prototype and classic cars from 100 years of Mercedes history.

While you’re there 

Be sure to spare some time to visit the excellent Brooklands Museum next door, which celebrates the birthplace of British motorsports and aviation with a large collection of historic racing cars and aircraft, along with F1 and Concorde simulators.

The 2.75-mile racing track at Brooklands, completed in 1907, was the world’s first purpose-built motorsports venue. Remnants of the steeply banked track can be seen around the edge of Mercedes-Benz World.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 5+
When: All year around
Duration: 5 hours

Getting there & doing it

Just off the M25, Mercedez Benz-world is around 40 minutes’ drive from London. Alternatively, it is a mile’s walk from Weybridge station, which is approx 30 minutes from London Waterloo. There is also a regular shuttle bus service from Weybridge station.

Booking is required for the Driving Experience, but not for general admission. The main building and exhibitions are free; simulators and driving experiences attract a separate charge.

When to do it

The centre is open all year round, seven days a week.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Bingham Riverhouse

London, United Kingdom (UK)[16 miles]

A lovely, tranquil retreat for those who want to dip in and out of central London. Richmond Park, Hampton Court and The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew are on your doorstep.

Official star rating:

Richmond Harbour Hotel

London, United Kingdom (UK)[16 miles]

A colourful and stylish ‘countryside retreat’ atop leafy Richmond Hill, overlooking the Thames and just 20 minutes from the city centre. Kew Gardens and Hampton Court are virtually next door.

Official star rating:

Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Hampton Court Palace

London, United Kingdom (UK)[10.5 miles]

England’s greatest Tudor estate and the former home of Henry VIII and his succession of wives, preserved for the public to explore.

Best for ages: 4+ | £25

Windsor Castle

Windsor , Berkshire, United Kingdom (UK)[17.2 miles]

The largest working castle in the world, Windsor is steeped in 900 years of history and is the Queen’s favourite royal residence.

Best for ages: 10+ | £24

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Silhouette of people having fun on a roller-coaster in an amusement park at a golden pink and blue sunset
Experience

Thorpe Park

Chertsey, Surrey, United Kingdom (UK)[6.4 miles]

The UK’s second biggest theme park (behind Alton Towers). Main attractions include The Colossus, Nemesis and Inferno rollercoasters and the UK’s fastest rollercoaster Stealth.

Best for ages: 4+ | £35 | 12 hours

Website >
Overview >
Happy and excited adults and children on Scorpion Express. It is a mine train themed roller coaster. Screaming, laughing and enjoying ride.
Experience

Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington, Greater London, United Kingdom (UK)[10.4 miles]

One of Britain’s best adventure parks, boasting thrilling rides, a sea life centre and an impressive zoo.

Best for ages: 4+ | £30 | 1 day

Website >
Overview >

Sunningdale Old Course

Sunningdale, Berkshire, United Kingdom (UK)[11.8 miles]

A terrific test of golf that couldn’t be more beautifully situated, surrounded by glorious pines and sturdy oak trees. The surfaces are carpet-like and fast and it all comes together with remarkable elegance, best appreciated on the elevated 10th hole.

Best for ages: 13+ | £275

Richmond Park

London, United Kingdom (UK)[16.5 miles]

Charles I’s deer-roamed royal park that remains little changed since the Middle Ages. Woodland, grassland, and cycleways make for a rural treat of a city retreat.

Best for ages: 4+ | Free