Hidden Gem Driving Experiences: Unusual Vehicles You Can Actually Drive

When most people think of a driving experience, they picture climbing behind the wheel of a Ferrari or Lamborghini. While supercars remain hugely popular, and for obvious reasons, they're really only part of what's available across the UK.

If you're looking for something more memorable, there are plenty of unusual driving experiences that let you take control of vehicles most people never get the chance to drive. From military machines to giant construction equipment, these hidden gems offer stories you'll be talking about long after the engine stops.

Drive a Tank

Few experiences compare to commanding a real military tank across rough terrain. A tank driving experience combines raw power with surprisingly technical handling, giving you the chance to crush obstacles, tackle muddy tracks and experience what it's like to operate one of the world's most iconic military vehicles.

Perfect for:

• Military enthusiasts
• Thrill seekers
• Bucket list experiences

Get Behind the Wheel of a Monster Truck

Monster trucks aren't just for stadium shows. Several UK venues offer the chance to drive these towering machines over challenging off-road courses.

With enormous tyres, incredible suspension and commanding visibility, it's a driving experience unlike anything you'll experience on the road.

If you want something loud, bold and unforgettable, then a monster truck experience is the one for you!

Try a Rally Driving Experience

Rally driving is very different to a normal driving experience as it’s all about controlling a car on gravel, dirt and loose surfaces.

Professional instructors teach techniques including Scandinavian flicks, controlled slides and precision braking, making it one of the most rewarding rally driving experiences for anyone wanting to improve their skills while having fun.

4 X 4 Off Road Driving

Don't be fooled into thinking the modern SUVs you see on a Chelsea school run are the only way to enjoy a 4 X 4 as true off road driving is a completely different challenge.

Here you get to navigate steep climbs, deep water crossings, muddy tracks and rocky terrain while learning how four-wheel-drive systems really work.

This is a brilliant experience for beginners and experienced drivers alike.

Drive Heavy Construction Machinery

Ever wondered what it's like to operate a giant excavator or digger?

Construction vehicle experiences let you move tonnes of earth, stack tyres, complete precision challenges and learn how professional operators control these impressive machines.

They're surprisingly relaxing, incredibly satisfying and unlike any traditional driving day.

Take Control of a Fire Engine

Driving a fire engine is a childhood dream for many people.

These specialist vehicles are much larger than most drivers expect, making manoeuvring them an exciting challenge. Depending on the experience, you may even complete driving exercises used during emergency vehicle training.

Drive a Bus or Coach

It might not sound glamorous, but driving a full sized bus is surprisingly rewarding and so much fun!

Learning how professional drivers handle these long, heavy vehicles gives you a completely new appreciation for the skill involved in public transport.

Our bus driving experience is part of a group of vehicles that you can drive in the Italian Job adventure.

Experience Military Vehicle Driving

If tanks aren't your thing, there are opportunities to drive other military vehicles, such as a Spartan Tank, DAF Army Truck & Army Land Rover

These experiences offer a fascinating combination of history, engineering and hands-on driving.

Junior Driving Adventures

Driving experiences aren't just for adults.

Many venues offer specially designed junior driving days where young drivers can experience supercars, off-road vehicles or purpose-built training cars in safe, controlled environments with qualified instructors.

Why Choose an Unusual Driving Experience?

While supercars are exciting, unusual driving experiences often create even better memories because they're completely unexpected.

You'll learn new skills, experience vehicles you've probably only ever seen on television and enjoy an adventure that's far removed from everyday driving.

They're also fantastic gift ideas for people who seem to have everything.

Find Your Next Driving Adventure

Whether you've always dreamed of driving a tank, mastering a rally stage or climbing into the cab of a giant excavator, there's a driving experience to suit every type of adventurer.

Exploring beyond traditional supercar track days could lead you to your most memorable driving experience yet.