As classic games such as darts, pool and rock climbing rejoin the ‘cool club’, we’re ready to make the case for the resurgence of go karting. I mean, what’s not to like? The chance to fulfil that need for speed? Check. Cool helmets? Check. An adrenaline rush for those of us who are used to the 2mph traffic in and out of Manchester? Check. Check. Check. Whether you consider yourself the next Lewis Hamilton or simply need a break from working from home, it’s time to put the pedal to the metal with our guide to the best go karting tracks in (and around) Manchester.
1. TeamSport Karting, Warrington
Boasting three locations across Greater Manchester, thrill-seekers can enjoy a bitta Go Karting in not only two locations in Manchester, but one just a short drive away in Warrington, too.
Situated indoors away from the typical Manchester rain, guests can enjoy a variety of experiences designed for kids (8+) and adults alike, including competitive 50 lap races for the grown-ups, fun kids parties, and even lessons for the beginners among us. Visitors will get to suit up like a pro (which is definitely part of the fun), before rallying around the course and clocking in some personal bests. TeamSport Karting, Unit 2, Bank Quay Trading Estate, Slutchers Lane, Warrington, WA1 1PJ.
2. TeamSport Karting, Manchester
As industrial as you’d expect from basically *anything* here in Manchester, TeamSport Karting offers an ideally located go karting experience bang in the city centre – with an additional track at Trafford Park, too. Whizz around the track and hone your skills with mates, before heading into town for a few bevvies with mates afterwards (we know a good few cool bars for that, of course!).
Similarly to the Warrington track, guests can expect an unbeatable indoor karting experience, with plenty of challenging twists and turns to drift around and plenty of straights for those fast sprints. TeamSport Karting, 4 Trafford Park, Wharfside Way, Stretford, M17 1NF | Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, M3 1AR |
3. Three Sisters, Wigan
Known as the North West’s most ‘challenging’ track, Three Sisters is one of very few outdoor go karting tracks near Manchester – offering a fun experience for those aged 8 and over. So, what makes it so challenging? The large circuit consists of tons of twists, loops and turns, meaning you can make your session as challenging or as simple as you’d like. In addition to leisurely go karting, guests can also participate in open kart races, too, however – some races require previous experience to take part. Three Sisters Circuit, Three Sisters Rd, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan, WN4 8DD.
4. TeamKarting, Rochdale
TeamKarting offers the ‘longest all-tarmac indoor karting track’ in Greater Manchester – meaning plenty of straights for those who have a need for speed, alongside plenty of fast bends for the thrill, too. Whether it’s a leisurely drive with family you’re up for, or more of a competitive challenge with mates – guests can select from a number of packages, offering either ‘arrive and drive’ or more endurance-focused events for the keen racers among us. TeamKarting, Ensor Mill, Queensway, Rochdale, OL11 2NU.
5. Chaos Karts, Manchester
A little bit different to the go karting experiences in and around Manchester on this list as this one is pretty immersive and no helmet or suit is needed. Offering a new way to hit the pedal to the metal is Chaos Karts, an attraction which combines real-life racing with augmented reality, and it is located in the heart of Manchester. The UK’s first live action video game experience throws players into a virtual world, living inside a real-life video game to race-battle their friends, family, rivals and colleagues, giving Super Mario vibes. Chaos Karts, Studio 1, Old Granada Studios, Lower Byrom Street, M3 4JP.