In a world dominated by high-tech and high-powered racing pursuits, go-karting continues to offer something tangibly different with its stripped-back approach to racing. The allure of power laps and testing supercars, or racetrack-worthy variants at the likes of Mercedes Benz World and any of the country’s premier racing circuits is strong, but track days lack the one element which is pivotal to go-karting’s near universal appeal: the thrill of friendly competition.
Whilst far more stripped back and less glamorous, the joy and the rush of chasing lap times with a competitive edge and planning high-adrenaline days out among family and friends is worth its weight in gold. Surrey offers a surprising variety of go-karting venues for all skill levels, from professional-grade outdoor circuits to tightly wound indoor tracks. The county and its bordering towns have developed a strong karting scene that appeals to beginners, hobbyists, and more seasoned racers alike.
TeamSport Go Karting, Farnborough
This sprawling indoor karting complex is a magnet for serious racers and casual thrill-seekers alike. The venue occupies a large, purpose-built industrial unit with high ceilings and LED lighting that bathes the 800-metre multi-level circuit below. The track itself features banked turns, long straights, and hairpin bends that should pose a challenge for even the most experienced driver, whilst proving accessible to beginners. The karts themselves are well-maintained, with adjustable seating and steering to suit a variety of driver sizes.
On-site catering offers light snacks and drinks, while packages cater for everything from children’s birthday parties to adult race leagues and corporate events. Spectators may view the action from a comfortable lounge area furnished with leather seating and arcade machines. The venue's location near the M3 ensures easy access for drivers coming from Guildford, Woking, and wider Surrey, making it a reliable choice for both local racers and corporate away-days.
Daytona Sandown Park, Esher
Set within the historic grounds of Sandown Park Racecourse, Daytona offers one of the most competitive karting experiences in Surrey, regularly used for professional karting championships and corporate events. The facility boasts an outdoor international-grade circuit at a length of 900 metres, one of the longest and most challenging in the south of England. The circuit itself offers sweeping corners, tight chicanes, and generous overtaking zones, appealing to competitive racers seeking a true test of driving skill.
The pit area has been carefully designed with racing in mind, featuring race control towers, team pits that provide a professional edge to proceedings, no matter if it's raceday or a friendly day out. Daytona’s fleet includes both adult Pro Karts and junior cadet karts, ensuring drivers of all ages and abilities are well catered for. Race formats range from timed practice sessions to full-on Grand Prix-style events, and the centre is particularly popular with corporate parties for some high-octane team experiences.
Absolute Karting, Maidenhead
Though technically located just outside Surrey in Maidenhead, Absolute Karting draws many visitors from the county thanks to its challenging indoor track and good access via the M25. The compact 400-metre circuit is ideal for tight, technical racing, offering sharp bends, switchback corners, and a long straight to test seasoned karters' driving skills, while also being navigable for beginners and children to enjoy.
The centre’s petrol-powered Biz karts provide a traditional go-karting experience, complete with the familiar roar and scent of fuel engines, which other locations lack due to the preference for electric karts. As a result of these more powerful karts, safety is of the utmost priority, with advanced barrier systems and clear driver briefings delivered to ensure guests know how to handle these small, yet powerful machines. Ideal for small group races and children’s parties, Absolute Karting is a favourite within the home counties and also offers regular league racing for those looking to take their hobby to the next competitive level.
Surbiton Raceway
This smaller but much-loved outdoor track offers an old-school karting experience with universal appeal. While not as long a track as Daytona or Absolute Karting, Surbiton Raceway features a clever layout of tight bends and small straights designed to reward technique over sheer speed. The paddock area, with its corrugated metal garages and tyre-stacked fences, harks back to the golden age of British karting and gives the venue a distinctly authentic feel that has ensured its popularity has not waned with time.
In keeping with the nostalgia, Surbiton Raceway’s petrol karts are simple, robust, and reliable, making them ideal for beginners and younger drivers building their confidence, whilst the more experienced racers will enjoy the old-school feel of both the karts and the circuit. Birthday packages, family sessions and practice sessions are all available on demand, as this is a family-friendly circuit which has been a longstanding part of the local community for decades and takes pride in providing no-fuss thrills and fun for all drivers.
Honourable Mention – Capital Karts, London Docklands
For petrol heads and thrill seekers willing to venture further afield, Capital Karts in East London remains the UK’s largest indoor track, offering an unforgettable racing experience that justifies the longer journey from beyond London’s outer rim. With an extraordinary, 1,200-metre circuit that winds under steel supports and industrial lighting rigs, this is a theatre for pure motorsport, with booming sound systems, digital timing screens and pit lane facilities that rival professional racing outfits.
The track design itself is ambitious, with multiple level changes, sweeping curves, and fast straights that allow top speeds of up to 45mph, making it the fastest indoor karting venue in the country. Electric Sodi karts provide smooth, punchy power, making the most of the venue’s long straights and sweeping corners. The Docklands Centre offers an exciting option for those looking to test their karting skills on a grander scale than most local tracks allow, and is a popular destination for both racing teams and enthusiasts. With the establishment of the Elizabeth Line, reaching Docklands from as far afield as Heathrow Airport has never been so simple, with journeys possible in under an hour to experience the country’s finest go-kart track.
