Racing isn't just a pastime but a way of life at the Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham. The park is dedicated to all things motorsports, with a thrilling racecourse set amid the woods and a motorbike museum that is in the record books for being the world’s biggest of its kind. Camp at the park to immerse yourself in the world of pistons and pit stops.
The park is named after George Barber, a talented Porsche racer during the 1960s who moved on to collecting motorbikes after he hung up his racing helmet. Study his collection at the Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum, which opened in 1995. His dream was for it to become a living museum. In 2003 the Barber Motorsports Park opened, complete with a track to demonstrate the machines in action.
Take a seat in the main spectator area, which runs along the back stretch of the course, to observe high-octane races and vintage bike shows. The track features 17 turns in total and runs for 2.4 miles (3.8 kilometers) through a naturally wooded and grassy area.
View one of the world's largest motorcycle collections at the adjoining museum. Over 600 examples of bikes and cars from different eras of motoring are displayed here. Even more vehicles are kept in storage and are occasionally shown on special event days. Trace the development of the motorcycle as you inspect the different models, noting the changes in design and performance. Admire the constantly growing collection of Harley-Davidsons, which features almost 100 models.
The annual Barber Vintage Festival takes place in October each year and attracts biking and racing fans from around the world. See death-defying stunts and enjoy displays of vintage motorbike models from the earliest days of the sport.
The Barber Motorsports Park, which is a 20-minute drive east of the center of Birmingham, is open throughout the year except on major holidays. An entrance fee is required. Inquire in advance to book tours of the museum, which are available for an extra fee.