On June 26, 2005, a puncture caused Charlie Kimball to spin out of second place during the final British Formula 3 International Series race at Castle Combe, leading to red flags being incited and his Carlin team-mate Alvaro Parente being declared the winner. A month later, the Wiltshire circuit failed to overturn a noise abatement order, marking the end of a popular five-year stretch for British F3 and British GT meetings at Castle Combe.
Trevor Carlin, whose team achieved six wins at Combe between 2001 and 2005, reminisces fondly about the track’s atmosphere and strong fan turnout during their events. Castle Combe, celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2021, is hailed as an epic driver’s circuit by Carlin for its demanding nature that rewarded skill and precision.
With lap times under a minute and fast-paced action, Castle Combe was a favorite among drivers like Adam Carroll who appreciated its challenging yet flowing layout. The track’s hazards, including floppy markers and unforgiving tyre stacks, required precision and focus to navigate successfully.
Parente and Carroll particularly commend the thrilling final turn at Castle Combe, Camp, for its high-speed demands and minimal room for error, making it a defining corner for Formula 3 racing. The track’s unique characteristics and storied history continue to make it a standout venue in motorsport despite the challenges it presents.
