Lydden has a variety of bends, gradient and short straights, which keep competitors very busy. The circuit was designed and built by Mr. Bill Chesson in 1965. Originally 0.705 miles in length, it was increased to 1 mile in 1967 when the hairpin was extended up Hairy Hill. Spectators like Lydden because it is a natural bowl. Wherever they choose to view they can see 90% of the track. Started in 1955 by Bill Chesson, the track was originally used for stock cars and grass track racing. By 1965 it had a tarmac surface and hosted car racing up to Formula 3 level. In 1967 the track hosted rally cross on a combined grass/tarmac circuit.