Background (1942–1967) The site was originally constructed in 1942 as
RAF Thruxton, a
World War II airfield which was home to both the
RAF and
USAAF and was used for troop-carrying aircraft and gliders, including operations during the
D-Day landings. Also, the paratroopers who took part in the successful Bruneval Raid (
Operation Biting), in which German radar equipment was seized on the coast of France, took off from here.
Establishment (1968–1999) The circuit, which follows the line of the airfield's perimeter road, was established in 1968. From 1950 to 1965, motorbike races had taken place on the runways and perimeter road.
Modern developments (2000–present) Thruxton Circuit was resurfaced in 2000, resulting in lap times dropping considerably compared to the previous year. In 2020, further safety developments were completed at
Church, one of the fastest sections of the Thruxton Circuit. A new spectator viewing area has been constructed around
Noble, extending through towards
Goodwood. In 2025, Thruxton introduced a new spectator area known as the Woodham Hill Bank, located on the approach to the
Club chicane. ==Motorsport activities==