The "Home of British Motor Racing" can be found near Towcester in Northamptonshire and dates from 1948. Like so many British circuits it owes it existence to the Second World War when it served as an airfield for British and American bombers. When the RAC leased it from the Air Ministry in 1948 racing started almost immediately on the runways and perimeter roads on a 3.7-mile track that resembled an hourglass in shape, very different from today. However by 1949 a layout much more similar to today's was designed and this was used for the first ever World Championship Grand Prix held in 1950 and won by Nino Farina in an Alfa Romeo. In the 1950's numerous changes were made to the track and the BRDC took over the lease from the RAC, in 1961 the BRDC finally bought the track in order to be able to push through the necessary improvement to the facilities. For many years Silverstone would hold the British GP on alternate years sharing with Aintree until the mid 60s and then Brands Hatch but since 1987 the race has been held exclusively at Silverstone. In recent years there have been frequent changes to the layout and just about every year there are alterations to one section or another. Current Circuit Length: Grand Prix Circuit: 3.20 miles. National Circuit: 1.649 miles.