In 1970, the Range Rover changed the way the world experienced off-road driving. Regarded as a British icon in the world of car manufacturing, today Land Rover is still a market leader in four-wheel drive, harnessing cutting-edge technologies to heighten the driving experience. With a selection of factories scattered across northern England, there are more than five different tours on offer to give audiences a behind-the-scenes glimpse into this world.
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One such tour takes place in Solihull, providing an end-to-end view of the full production process. Expect a personal concierge on hand to escort you around the factory, beginning with a ride in a chauffeur-driven Land Rover to the Premium Lightweight Architecture facility. After taking in the paint shop, where artists create bespoke motor projects, you will move onto the trim and final assembly where vehicles are made ready for sale. Throughout the day you will have access to the Range Rover VIP lounge to really make this a trip to remember.
£325 for two people; landrover.com
Jaguar Tour at Castle Bromwich
A visit to Jaguar's Castle Bromwich branch is an opportunity to revel in the luxury offered by this British marque. Producing some of the most technologically advanced cars on the road today, Jaguar has come a long way since its first model was released in 1922. A tour of the Castle Bromwich factory in Birmingham lets you discover firsthand what each day entails for their dedicated craftsmen. Highlights of the tour include watching the world's largest aluminium press mould the F-TYPE structure, experiencing over 100 hi-tech robots working in perfect synchronisation and witnessing the moment that power rushes through the car's engine for the first time, giving that showstopping roar.
What's more, for those interested in buying a Jaguar, this specific tour gives you the opportunity to let your creativity come into play. Explore the company's bespoke services and customise your car from hundreds of paint colours, components and additional elements.
£49 per person; jaguar.com
At Home with Aston Martin
Founded in 1913, luxury car brand Aston Martin has established itself as a household name and pillar of the British sports car community. Previously reserved for customers only, the Warwickshire factory has opened its doors for the public to experience the craftsmanship, precision and quality techniques that go into every Aston Martin.
During the expert-led tour you will explore the brand's strong roots in British heritage through a retrospective of Aston Martin's 104-year history. Unlike any other factory experience of its kind, you will have the opportunity to talk with those responsible for the initial precision aluminium chassis bonding, bespoke leather interior hand-stitching, hand-painting of the bodywork and final inspection.
£350 for two people; astonmartinartofliving.com
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