Historic Car Sporting Trials Weekend @ Wytch Wood

Elise Newman

23 February 2024

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Historic Car Sporting Trials Weekend @ Wytch Wood

Something a bit different is taking place in the Wytch Wood Valley on 11th and 12th May.

 

One for the petrol heads, we are hosting a two-day motorsport event, run by the Historic Sporting Trials Association. During the event, specialist historic trial cars, mainly from the 1960s and ’70s will complete timed trials “sections” on the steep and slippery hillsides surrounding Blackmore Farm.

 

Historic Car Sporting Trials Weekend @ Wytch Wood

 

British motorsport, enthusiasts will travel from across the country to compete with their brilliant heritage cars.

 

What is a motorsport time trial?

 

A course will be created on the hills, split into multiple sections and marked out with coloured pegs in different areas. The event is not a race, as only one car will be on a section at any one time – but their overall time is important. The sections are designed to be challenging but achievable and test the skill of the driver on difficult terrain.

 

Specialist Trial Cars

 

Not just any car can compete in these particular trials.

 

Eligibility is very strict, and all cars must be constructed in accordance with the National Trials Formula for Sporting Trials cars. This governs things like engine, brakes, steering, axles and wheels. The classes are split into “Historic” cars from 1953-1970, and “Post Historic” cars constructed up to 1978.

 

Most trial cars are very different looking to a road cars – but you can see from the pictures there are some beautiful examples. This is a very friendly and informal sport, so you can usually get up close to the cars and meet the owners and drivers.

Historic Car Sporting Trials Weekend @ Wytch Wood
Historic Car Sporting Trials Weekend @ Wytch Wood
Historic Car Sporting Trials Weekend @ Wytch Wood

Can I get involved in this motorsport event?

 

If you are competing in the trials, you are very welcome to camp with us at Wytch Wood. If you are camping at Wytch Wood over the 11-12th May weekend, you are very welcome to come and watch the trials – there is no charge as a spectator.

 

Here is how you can enjoy a day of this sport safely:

    • You are welcome to spectate; there is no charge to watch a historic sporting trial.
    • Spectators MUST act responsibly and not put themselves or others at risk.
    • Young children must be under the control of a responsible adult.
    • Follow the trial on foot. Unauthorised vehicles are not permitted.
    • You must obey the marshal or official instruction, particularly on matters of safety.
    • Do not stand in a position where you could be struck by a vehicle, behind spinning wheels or in a position that can obscure the vision of the competitors or marshals.

 

Are you a motorsport fan?

 

If you are a fan of cars and motorsports, but can’t make it down for the Trials in May then why not check out some of the other motorsport and car days out in the area:

 

  • Haynes Motor Museum 
    Bursting with automobiles of all shapes and sizes, you can check out over 300 cars and bikes on display and changing exhibitions all the time. With loads of indoor fun including junior go-karts and different play and activity areas you can keep dry and have fun. There is also an outdoor kart track for older petrolheads!
  • Smeatharpe Stadium
    Wytch Wood is around 20 miles from Smeatharpe Stadium which holds stock car and banger racing throughout the year.

 


We’ll be adding to our travel guide – are there any indoor days out in South Somerset, West Dorset or East Devon that you’d recommend?

 

Follow us on Instagram or Facebook for more updates.

 

Our aim at Wytch Wood is to bring diversity, sustainability and flexibility to camping and glamping, making it possible for us to offer an alternative experience of camping to our guests.

 

We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful countryside we have in Somerset, so we are making larger, more private pitches for you.

 



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