Wales Trip October 24

A Porsche Road Trip Across Wales and the UK’s Legendary Tracks

I was disappointed to miss Westcountry Porsche Drivers road trip when to Wales in August, so Mike and I decided we’d do this ourselves with a greater emphasis on track days. I’d be taking my 996 while Mike would be driving his Cayman S. With four days ahead of us, some of Wales’ most picturesque roads, and two of the UK’s best circuits, we met early Sunday at Exeter Services, buzzing with anticipation.
Our first day was perfect driving weather—bright and dry roads—as we navigated the winding routes through Brecon and Builth Wells, bypassing towns and villages as we edged closer to Snowdonia. The Porsches devoured mile after mile, there was little traffic or speed cameras (unlike much of Wales). By evening, we’d crossed into Anglesey, feeling that satisfying mix of exhaustion and exhilaration after hours of intense driving. We checked into our stop on the island, feeling well-prepped for the next day on the track.

Day two began early as we rolled into the Anglesey Circuit, a gem of a track with panoramic views of the Irish Sea. Under the sunny sky, the track felt like a driver’s dream: flowing corners, undulating elevations, and a mix of technical sections and sweeping bends. With each lap, the 911 and Cayman S seemed to come alive, hugging the tarmac as we leaned into the turns. Mike had arranged tuition which was the best £25 you could spend on improving your performance. Anglesey’s deceptively tricky Corkscrew and Radar corners had us gritting our teeth, but the precision handling of the Porsches gave us confidence. By late morning, we’d pushed our brakes to the limit; when we stopped to cool down, smoke was rising off our rear brakes—proof of a truly intense session. During the afternoon session we were more sympathetic to our brakes and faster, a good sign that our driving was improving.
Leaving Anglesey in the afternoon, we met up with my friend Mark, a local who knows North Wales like the back of his hand. He led us to the stunning Pen-y-Pass, a route that winds its way through the breathtaking Snowdonia landscape. We hugged the narrow, winding road as it cut through rugged mountains and valleys. With views that seemed straight out of a postcard, it was hard to focus solely on the drive. But, as the light faded, we eventually reached our stop near Oulton Park, settling into a classic British pub to rest up for another track day.

Day three brought us to the famous Oulton Park Circuit, known for its fast, challenging corners and elevation changes. The weather was overcast but mostly dry—a blessing considering how tricky Oulton can be. From the opening lap, it was clear why this circuit has such a stellar reputation. With its technical sections, like Shell Oils Corner, and faster sections, such as Lakeside and Clay Hill, Oulton Park demanded every ounce of focus. The 911 felt perfectly dialed in as I navigated each turn, while Mike’s Cayman S kept pace with ease, handling the circuit’s sudden drops and tight chicanes. By the time we wrapped up our final lap, we both felt we’d gotten the absolute best out of our machines on this legendary track.
On our final day, heavy rain greeted us as we made our way down the motorway. But just when we thought the drive home would be a somber end to an incredible trip, Rachael (we think that’s here name) surprised us by joining the convoy in her bright orange McLaren. Her car and cheery smile brought a flash of colour and energy to the otherwise dreary motorway, and the symphony of our engines kept our spirits high as we pushed through the rain together.
Looking back, it was the perfect four-day escape: two amazing tracks, stunning Welsh roads, and that unique camaraderie that comes from sharing the road. The cars had given us everything, and the memories we’d made were as unforgettable as the journey itself. This was a fitting end to my 5 year love affair with my 996, which is about to be upgraded for a younger model!

Jon Coomber