Donington Park Track Guide: Layout, Corners & Driving Tips

LapSnaps Editorial Team

3 min read

Donington Park Circuit Overview

Donington Park is one of the most popular and historic race tracks in the United Kingdom. Located in Leicestershire, England, the circuit is known for its fast flowing layout, dramatic elevation changes, and rewarding rhythm.

Donington suits drivers who are smooth, committed, and confident. Momentum plays a huge role here, and small mistakes can cost time over long sections of the lap.

Donington Park Circuit Layout Explained

The Grand Prix layout at Donington Park measures approximately 2.5 miles (4.0 km) and combines fast downhill sections with technical braking zones.

The track is often described as “old school”, narrow in places, fast in others, and highly engaging to drive.

Key characteristics:

Significant elevation changes
Long flowing corner sequences
Limited run‑off in places
Strong focus on momentum

Key Corners at Donington Park

Redgate (Turn 1)

A medium speed right hander at the end of the pit straight. A clean exit is essential, as it sets up speed for the downhill Craner Curves.

Craner Curves

One of the most famous sequences in UK motorsport. High‑speed left‑right corners taken downhill. Smooth steering inputs and confidence are critical, overdriving here quickly kills momentum.

Old Hairpin

A fast right hander where exit speed matters more than entry. Good throttle control helps maintain speed through Schwantz Curve that follows.

McLeans & Coppice

A technical section where patience is key. Coppice exit speed is especially important, as it leads onto the Starkey’s Straight.

Fogarty Esses & Melbourne Hairpin

Heavy braking and precision required. A clean exit from Melbourne sets up the final sector and the run back to Redgate.

Driving Tips for Donington Park

Donington Park rewards smooth, flowing driving rather than aggressive inputs.

Key tips:

Focus on maintaining momentum, especially through Craner Curves
Avoid unnecessary braking mid corner
Prioritise exits over late braking
Build speed progressively as confidence increases

The faster sections punish hesitation, so commitment and consistency are vital.

Common Mistakes Drivers Make at Donington Park

Over braking into Redgate
Turning in too early at Craner Curves
Forcing the car through Coppice
Over slowing the Melbourne Hairpin

Drivers often lose time by trying too hard instead of letting the car flow.

Track Days at Donington Park

Donington Park hosts regular track days for road cars and race cars. Noise limits vary depending on the event, so checking requirements in advance is essential.

The circuit offers a great balance of challenge and enjoyment, making it popular with both beginners and experienced drivers.