Wheeldon Off-Road Centre - Totnes

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Halwell, near Totnes, lies the Wheeldon Off-Road Centre, a premier destination for motorsports enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers alike. This purpose-built facility offers an unparalleled off-road driving experience, attracting visitors from both the United Kingdom and beyond. Let's delve into the details of this exciting venue.

Main Services

• Racecourse: The Off-Road Centre's pièce de résistance is its state-of-the-art racecourse, designed to test the skills and bravery of even the most seasoned drivers. This 1.5-mile track features a variety of challenging terrain, including steep climbs, descents, muddy pits, and rocky obstacles, ensuring an exhilarating and dynamic driving experience.
• Driving Experiences: Wheeldon Off-Road Centre offers a range of driving experiences, catering to both novices and experts. Their most popular package is the Off-Road Driving Taster, which allows participants to get behind the wheel of a 4x4 vehicle and navigate the challenging course under the guidance of experienced instructors. Other experiences include the Extreme 4x4 and the Off-Road Buggy Driving.
• Corporate Events: The Off-Road Centre is also an ideal venue for corporate events and team-building exercises. Their tailored packages combine the thrill of off-road driving with team-based challenges, fostering camaraderie and boosting morale. These events can be customized to include catering and other additional services.
• Stunt Driving Courses: For those seeking to improve their driving skills or learn advanced techniques, Wheeldon Off-Road Centre offers a range of stunt driving courses. Taught by professional stunt drivers, these courses cover everything from power slides and handbrake turns to Donuts and J-Turns.
• Venue Hire: The Off-Road Centre's facilities are also available for private hire, making it an ideal location for film and TV productions, photoshoots, or private events. The venue's diverse terrain and proximity to nearby Dartmoor National Park offer ample opportunities for stunning visuals.

Location and Access

The Wheeldon Off-Road Centre is located in the small village of Halwell, approximately 5 miles north of the market town of Totnes in South Devon. The venue is easily accessible from major routes, including the A38 and the A385.

For those traveling by public transport, the nearest train station is Totnes, which is served by regular services from London Paddington, as well as other major cities in the UK. From Totnes station, visitors can take a taxi or use a local bus service to reach the Off-Road Centre.

Upon arrival, visitors will find ample parking space, with designated areas for both cars and 4x4 vehicles. The centre also provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the facilities with ease.

Featured Characteristics

• Professional Instructors: The Wheeldon Off-Road Centre prides itself on its team of experienced and qualified instructors, who are dedicated to ensuring that all visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Their expertise and passion for off-road driving create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
• Safety First: The centre places a strong emphasis on safety, with all driving experiences starting with a comprehensive safety briefing. Participants are provided with appropriate safety equipment, including helmets and protective clothing, and the venue's vehicles are regularly maintained to ensure they are in optimal condition.
• Diverse Fleet: Wheeldon Off-Road Centre boasts an impressive fleet of 4x4 vehicles, including models from leading manufacturers such as Land Rover and Mercedes-Benz. Their diverse range of vehicles caters to different driving styles and skill levels, ensuring that each visitor can find a suitable vehicle for their experience.
• On-Site Facilities: The Off-Road Centre features a range of on-site facilities, including a modern reception area, a café serving hot and cold refreshments, and a toilet accessible to wheelchair users. The venue also accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, as well as NFC mobile payments.

Practical Information

• Opening Hours: The Wheeldon Off-Road Centre is open throughout the year, with varying opening hours depending on the season. During peak months (March to October), the centre is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week. Off-peak hours may vary, so it is always best to check the website or contact the centre directly for the most up-to-date information.
• Pricing: Prices for the driving experiences offered at Wheeldon Off-Road Centre vary depending on the specific package and duration. The Off-Road Driving Taster, for example, starts at £35 for a 30-minute session, while the Extreme 4x4 experience can cost up to £150 for a full day. Corporate events and venue hire are priced on a bespoke basis, and visitors are encouraged to contact the centre for a personalised quote.
• Age and Experience Requirements: The minimum age for participating in the Off-Road Driving Taster experience is 17, with a valid driving license required. Some experiences may have age restrictions or require previous driving experience, so it is essential to check the specific requirements for each activity before booking.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 4.9/5 on Google My Business, the Wheeldon Off-Road Centre has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from its customers. Many reviewers praise the centre's exceptional instructors, who are consistently described as professional, patient, and enthusiastic. The venue's challenging and varied racecourse also receives high praise, with visitors enjoying the opportunity to test their skills on diverse terrain.

Several reviewers highlight the Off-Road Centre's excellent customer service, with staff members going above and beyond to ensure that each visitor has an unforgettable experience. The centre's flexible booking system and willingness to accommodate groups of different sizes are also frequently praised. One reviewer noted, "From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, we were greeted with nothing but smiles and helpfulness. The track was incredible, and our instructor made the experience truly memorable."

Many visitors also comment on the Off-Road Centre's idyllic location, with the surrounding Devonshire countryside providing a stunning backdrop for the driving experiences. The venue's easy access from major routes and ample parking facilities further contribute to its appeal.

❓ Frequently asked questions about Wheeldon Off-Road Centre

👍 Reviews of Wheeldon Off-Road Centre

Cass G.

5/5

We came to Wheeldon for camping and to give the kids a go at motor biking. We liked the relaxed family run atmosphere here and the facilities were excellent. If you have a camper with awning, children and or dogs this is the perfect place. Central to all the stunning places around the vicinity. They really looked after us and nothing was a problem. The owners were the nicest people. We are seasoned campers and have been to a variety of places in Europe and the UK from 5 star rated to field camping and this is easily one of the best. If you are after something that gets you back to nature and brings you back to earth a bit but without it being too much, then this is the place for you. The River Avon runs past at the bottom of the valley and is a great little adventure for all ages and dogs. Please don’t moan about the tight lanes, this is Devon that’s why people come here lol. Drive sensibly and be courteous and you’ll be fine. Thanks for such a lovely week. Cass, Fred, Tom, Oscar and Nessa 🐶 (Miss Cranky 🤪) We Miss Yogi too x

Amy D.

5/5

We visited today with our 5yr old and 9yr old and had such an amazing time. It is so well organised. The staff running the session were fun, friendly and professional. Our children absolutely loved the time on the track and came away feeling very proud of themselves and super happy. Really great day thank you so much! We will definitely be back!

Chris H.

5/5

Now using electric motorcross bikes this is a great place to experience off road riding. I've been a keen biker for most my life (some 25years) and never been off road sonot was a first for me. Out of our family of 5 three of us took part. Me, my 12 and my 5 year old daughters who have never ridden a motorbike before. All of us loved it. There are a range of bike sizes and 5yr old was on a motor assisted balance type bike. She was very daunted by it but had some practice and when then bikes weren't on track she was allowed to play a little on the track. She eventually had enough due to being a bit scared but the guy running it (who's name I embarrassingly forget) gave her some time to get her back on again and used the bikes. He was also brilliant with my 12yr old who stacked it almost immediately after getting on track. He was reassuring and got her back on the bike immediately. Through out the 2 hour session (which is more than enough) he gave her tips and showed her the ropes. Come the end she was so confident. Not doing jumps of getting out the seat but was quicker and enjoying the whole experience. I was pretty much left on my own which I was happy with. It was great experience for me using the berms, getting some jumps in and braking traction with the bike a little to get the feel for dirt track riding. There is a viewing platform for spectators and while there is a small campsite playpark there's nothing to do outside of watching everyone have fun. All kit is provided too. Helmet, gloves, tops, bottoms and boots, the lot. I'd definitely go again and the others said they'd like to go next time. It's not a cheap morning/afternoon out at £40 each but dare I say it's worth it. It was so much fun and the 2 hrs may not seem a lot but it is exhausting and plenty of time.

Michael P.

5/5

Staff are really friendly and helpful. Track setup is good for spectating as well.

mike M.

5/5

The guys were brilliant. Andrew and Jim, one of them likes fruit and nut and the other likes something else 😁. My boy had a brilliant time, it was the first time he had ever ridden a motorbike. He was on the main track in no time. All equipment is supplied. Loads of feedback for the kids. Really good experience. Panda and Billy were awesome too.

John H.

5/5

Really great experience for my two boys who were first timers. They absolutely loved the half day here. Andrew was such a good tutor and we all had a good laugh!

Mike S.

5/5

Great place and was so friendly would happily recommend this place to anyone to give a go and stay

Chris H.

5/5

Staying here on the caravan site, it was a last minute booking and its been amazing staff couldnt be more helpful kids are loving the dirt track, stunning area lovely walks. Will be back for sure