Mark the date: 22 – 24 August: This year not only are there 75 years of Formula 1 to celebrate, there are anniversaries for a number of important classic cars; the XJ-S and the Lotus Esprit are both 50 years old and the MGA is 70, among others. The club stands will have many examples of these cars (and others) to remind us of the UK’s motoring heritage.

Then there is the family entertainment. Although I’m somewhat a traditionalist, last year’s event was the first of the latest incarnation that I think worked well. The entertainment areas were reorganised and the whole thing had a flow about it. Conversations with people throughout the weekend ranged from “we’re looking forward to seeing Busted tonight”, to “we had an excellent weekend of racing”.

Silverstone gets a bad rep for its scenery which, in all fairness, can appear a bit drab due to a lack of greenery, but other than Goodwood which has limited space, where else in the UK can you watch fantastic racing cars and talk to teams and drivers; wander around a fairground; and, grab food and drink at a variety of outlets (including Diddly Squat Farm) and finally watch open air concerts before heading to your tent?

There are various locations on the site for alternative motorsport action. The “Shift-and Drift” Zone will have dragsters and drift cars making some noise (and smoke).

There’s an area called “The Park” which will have family games and the “Foodie Fest” where chefs will provide a food and drink tasting experience.

The “Adreneline Zone” is where you’ll find the “funfair rides”; the Sporting Bears will take you on a “Dream Ride” in a Classic or Super Car, in return for a charitable donation; or, you can learn to perform on BMX bikes, skates etc.

Don’t forget your wallet because Iconic Auctions will no doubt have something you wish you could afford.

All this in addition to a fantastic programme of racing. Arguably it is too much for a person to take in which is, perhaps, the event’s appeal. I therefore recommend you look at the Festival Website and start planning your trip.

The Festival website gives details of the entire programme of events, so rather than repeat it here I thought a few photos from last year would whet your appetite:

I still miss The Scarf and Goggles though.

I plan to be there all three days as part of Tripos Media’s photography team and hopefully with my car as part of the XJ-S Club display.

I hope to see you there.