Tanks, Trucks and Firepower Showground

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The Tanks, Trucks and Firepower Showground, nestled just off the A426 near Dunchurch, Rugby in Warwickshire, is the powerhouse venue behind one of the Midlands' largest and loudest military-themed events — the annual Tanks, Trucks and Firepower Show, held every August Bank Holiday weekend. This adrenaline-fuelled event brings history roaring to life with over 300 historic and modern military vehicles on display and in action.

Expect to see everything from fast-moving CVR(T)s like the Scorpion, Spartan, Scimitar, and Samaritan, to mighty Challenger I, Chieftain, and Warrior tanks — plus a rare collection of prototypes and private acquisitions rarely seen elsewhere.

The showground isn't just for spectators — it's also a hands-on hub for military vehicle experiences. Throughout the year, the site hosts a wide range of tank and 4x4 Driving Experiences, offering visitors the chance to drive, shoot, or ride in authentic armoured vehicles across a rugged off-road course.

Whether you're taking the wheel of an Alvis Spartan, firing a Scorpion's 76mm gun, or bouncing through mud trails in a military-spec Land Rover, it's a thrill-seeker's dream with something for all levels of adventure.

In addition to the annual show and experiences, the site features re-enactments, pyrotechnics, aircraft flyovers, and interactive zones for families and kids — making it a unique destination for history lovers, military enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an action-packed day out.

If you've ever dreamed of climbing inside a real armoured vehicle and feeling the power of military engineering firsthand, the Tanks, Trucks and Firepower Showground near Dunchurch, Rugby delivers unforgettable, mud-splattered thrills. Their range of Tank Driving and passenger ride experiences caters to both beginners and hardcore military enthusiasts — whether you're just along for the ride or ready to take control.

Perfect for families or first-timers, the Tank Passenger Ride gives you the chance to climb aboard the mammoth Alvis Spartan CVR(T) as it rumbles across the rugged off-road terrain of the showground. You'll be riding in a fully operational armoured personnel carrier, experiencing the bumps, power, and raw atmosphere from inside — without the need to drive.

Get behind the controls of a CVR(T) Alvis Spartan, a fast and agile armoured personnel carrier used by the British Army. Under the guidance of a trained instructor, you'll learn how to drive this 8-ton beast across real battlefield-style terrain. It's surprisingly nippy (with top speeds around 50mph!) and a favourite for those looking to mix adrenaline with a slice of history. No driving experience with tracked vehicles? No problem — you'll be walking through it step by step.

For those who want a more immersive combat simulation, the Scorpion Tank Firing Experience is the real deal. Climb into the FV101 Scorpion Light Tank, the fastest tracked vehicle in the world at its peak, and take the controls across the course. Then, the real highlight: you'll get to fire its 76mm main gun at static targets under expert supervision.

Double the firepower, double the fun. Bring a friend or partner and share the thrill of the Scorpion Tank Firing Experience for Two. Both participants will have the chance to drive and fire the tank, with plenty of time to swap places and take photos. It's an unforgettable shared experience — ideal for birthdays, military buffs, or just ticking something epic off the bucket list.

The minimum age and height requirements generally apply (usually 16+ for driving), but please refer to the 'Suitable for' section on each package for specific details. Every experience begins with a safety briefing, a walkthrough, and the provision of protective gear before it starts.

These off-road 4x4 adventures let you command ex-military trucks designed to conquer the most demanding conditions — and the experience can be cranked up a notch with an added tank passenger ride.

Climb into the cab of a real ex-army 4x4 truck and take on a purpose-built off-road course filled with steep climbs, deep mud, and unpredictable terrain. Under expert supervision, you'll learn how to handle a multi-ton military vehicle, using techniques once taught to armed forces personnel. It's a test of skill, nerve, and throttle control — and a unique way to experience the power of military transport firsthand.

Want the best of both worlds? This upgraded experience adds a tank passenger ride to your off-road truck adventure. Start by commanding a military 4x4 around the challenging course, then swap the cab for the belly of a fully operational armoured tank as you're taken for a thrilling ride through the battlefield-style landscape.