Bold ambition: Stowe and Silverstone to create a nature superhighway
Stowe Gardens and Silverstone Circuit have launched a three-year collaborative project to create a nature superhighway in the form of an accessible multi-user trail. The campaign aims to fast-track nature conservation and boost biodiversity in the area.
What does the partnership involve?
We will be working with Silverstone to generate funds to upgrade our four-mile parkland trail, which coincidentally is around the same length as Silverstone's Grand Prix circuit. Our aim is to improve the existing circular route and offer a family-friendly pathway suitable for walkers, pushchairs, adapted wheelchairs, cyclists and runners - giving visitors the opportunity to explore the wider parkland. Eventually we hope to enable green and active travel between the sites of Stowe and Silverstone circuit. The trail will also encompass Bourbon Tower, another key focus of our conservation work. Our aim for this is to restore the building, offering access to this extraordinary building for the first time.
Why Silverstone?
Historically Silverstone, only three miles from Stowe Gardens, was once part of the 18th century estate belonging to Stowe House. During the Second World War it became home to RAF Silverstone. Post-war the first use of motorsport at the airfield was in 1947 and in 1948 the first British Grand Prix was held at the now world-famous venue.
Stowe and Silverstone share strategic priorities to improve biodiversity, increase sustainability and create new homes for nature. A local fundraising relationship will connect communities and provide new access and green travel opportunities, steering both ourselves and Silverstone towards net zero by 2040.
How can I get involved?
As part of the collaboration, you will find the Stowe Gardens team at Silverstone during the F1 British Grand Prix, Silverstone Festival and Moto GP weekends of the next three years. If you are visiting any of these events, come and find us for a chat!
You can also find out more about Stowe's past and present conservation projects here and donate directly to our fundraiser below.