Buckmore Park

About Buckmore Park

Situated in Chatham, Kent, Buckmore Park offers a substantial outdoor karting experience across 1000 metres of well-designed circuit. Long enough for genuine racing lines and real overtaking opportunities, it sits comfortably above the typical leisure karting experience without tipping into full-on motorsport territory. Petrol karts provide the authentic sound, smell and physical feedback of real motorsport — the kind of driving feel that electric venues cannot replicate. The venue is particularly noted for F1 driver factory and Since 1963. Rated 4.8 out of 5 by 1,997 Google reviewers, it is among the most positively reviewed karting venues in Kent.

The Circuit

The 1000m circuit at Buckmore Park provides enough track to run proper race formats — not just quick bursts of laps, but genuine race distances where strategy and consistency matter. Petrol karts build speed progressively through the longer sections, with the physical feedback giving experienced drivers clear signals on grip and balance. The intermediate-advanced rating means the circuit is approachable but genuinely rewards experience — drivers who put in the laps will find themselves going faster as the session progresses.

Racing Heritage

Few karting venues anywhere in the world can match Buckmore Park's record of producing world-class talent. Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and Lando Norris — between them holders of multiple Formula 1 World Championships — all raced here at the early stages of their careers. That heritage is not coincidental: the circuit's layout and competitive environment genuinely develop racecraft in a way that casual venues do not. It remains part of what makes a session here feel like more than just a leisure activity.

Who Should Visit

Groups will find Buckmore Park straightforward to book for a mixed-ability visit. Drivers from age 8+ are accepted mean no prior experience or equipment is needed — you turn up, get kitted out with helmet and overalls, and race.

Competitive drivers and club racers will find owner driver sessions and structured competitive sessions available here. The intermediate-advanced difficulty rating and 1000m track length make Buckmore Park a venue that serious racers return to regularly, not just visit once.

Planning Your Visit

Buckmore Park is at Maidstone Road, Chatham, Kent — postcode ME5 9QG. As an outdoor venue, sessions occasionally run in wet conditions — go karting in the rain is a different but often more exciting challenge — though it's worth calling ahead if severe weather is forecast on your visit day.

Food and drink are available on site, so there's no need to rush off after your session — it's easy to extend the experience into a full half-day or evening out.

Pricing is at the premium end of UK karting pricing. Advance booking is strongly recommended — particularly for weekend sessions, corporate bookings, and group visits. Always confirm current session times and pricing directly with Buckmore Park before travelling, as availability and rates can vary throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions