The Race Centre – 20th Anniversary

From mid 2002, The Race Centre, then known as Drivers Challenge, had quietly existed as a word-of-mouth experiment in a drafty barn in Winchester. It started with just three pods and then expanded to six. In a world before Race Centres existed, it was uncertain what would become of it. It could stay as a hobby, or it could take the next step and move to proper commercial premises. It was to be the latter. On New Year’s Day 2006, everything moved to Chandler’s Ford, expanded to ten simulators and became a proper commercial operation. A venue and a global industry were born.

The doors opened to all at 12:00 noon, and two decades later, we’re still here. Apart from the fact that The Race Centre is still going strong, the technologies it has spawned are now licensed to similar facilities in 30+ countries around the world!

To celebrate, we’re taking the opportunity to upgrade some hardware, share some love and introduce some new experiences!

Equipment Upgrade in Progress – New Pedals

The first upgrade is the new pedals (already installed on Pod Ten). Now coming to all pods as soon as they arrive.

January 2026 – Free VR Upgrades (Where Possible)

Please ask if you’d like to try inclusive 4K VR during your experience. Must be 18+ years. May not be possible during busy periods, but if we can accomodate then we will.

Special Events & New Experiences – Coming Soon

Details to follow.

3-for-2 Voucher Promotion Extended

Anyone wishing to visit who hasn’t been for a while may wish to take advantage of our extended Seasonal 3-for-2 Gift Voucher Promotion, now running through to the end of January. All vouchers are valid for the usual 12 months.

Share Your Memories

When did you last visit? Do let us know if you came in the early days, or even visited the barn! (See Facebook Post)

We hope to see you soon – In the coming months and over the next 20 years!!!

Happy New Year from us all here at The Race Centre.