This ride is defunct.
Name Motor Racing Track Other Name(s) Brooklands Opened 1908
Nestled in the Surrey countryside, Brooklands race track opened on 17th June 1907, it was the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit. As is often the case, a real world innovation inspired the amusement park industry to provide a more accessible version to the masses.
The Pleasure Beach ride offered three parallel tracks, much like the Steeplechase sixty years later. The vehicles on the ride were not disimilar to motor cars of the day, carrying up to six riders.
The attraction was advertised in the local press as “a motor-racing track that provides the delights and the thrills of a miniature Brooklands, with none of its dangers”. Riders were able to influence the speed of their vehicle, seemingly providing a true racing angle to the concept.
The ride type gained royal approval in 1909 when Queen Alexandra and Princess Victoria visited the Imperial International Exhibition at White City. The Queen is said to have enjoyed two laps of the motor racing track and was victorious both times.
The later Grand Prix (Turnpike) ride is a spiritual successor to the Motor Racing Track.