Lakeside Karting

Thurrock, Essex
★★★★½4.5out of 51,420 Google reviews

South-East's largest and fastest outdoor track at 900m.

Track Type

🌳 Outdoor

Kart Type

⛽ Petrol

Track Length

900m

Min Age/Height

8+

Food & Drink

✓ Available

Difficulty

Intermediate

Price Range

££

Sessions Available

  • Arrive & Drive
  • Corporate Events

Best For

  • Speed seekers

Features

  • South-East's largest

About Lakeside Karting

Situated in Thurrock, Essex, Lakeside Karting offers a substantial outdoor karting experience across 900 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 South-East's largest. Rated 4.5 out of 5 by 1,420 Google reviewers, it is among the most positively reviewed karting venues in Essex.

The Circuit

The 900m circuit at Lakeside Karting 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 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.

Who Should Visit

Groups will find Lakeside Karting 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.

Corporate groups are one of Lakeside Karting's core markets. Dedicated event packages can include exclusive track hire, professional race management, timing and results, and catering options. Go karting consistently ranks among the most popular team-building activities in the UK, and Lakeside Karting's facilities support a professionally run event for groups of any size.

Planning Your Visit

Lakeside Karting is at A1306 Arterial Road, Thurrock, Essex — postcode RM19 1EA. 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 mid-range for UK karting. Advance booking is strongly recommended — particularly for weekend sessions, corporate bookings, and group visits. Always confirm current session times and pricing directly with Lakeside Karting before travelling, as availability and rates can vary throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age do you need to be to race at Lakeside Karting?

Drivers need to be at least 8+ to race at Lakeside Karting.

Do I need experience to race at Lakeside Karting?

No prior experience is required for standard sessions at Lakeside Karting. The track is rated intermediate, so while some technique will help you go faster, first-timers are well catered for.

Can you go karting at Lakeside Karting in the rain?

Lakeside Karting is an outdoor venue. Many sessions do run in wet conditions — and rain karting often produces the most exciting racing — but in extreme weather it's worth contacting the venue directly to confirm your session is going ahead.

Can I book Lakeside Karting for a corporate event or team day?

Yes, Lakeside Karting offers dedicated corporate event packages. These typically include exclusive track hire or reserved sessions, race management, timing and results, and catering options. Contact the venue directly for bespoke pricing and group availability.

Is food and drink available at Lakeside Karting?

Yes, food and drink are available on site at Lakeside Karting. You can make a full outing of your visit without needing to find somewhere nearby.

Do I need to book in advance at Lakeside Karting?

Advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly for weekend sessions, corporate days, and birthday parties. Walk-in availability is not guaranteed. Book via the official Lakeside Karting website or calling 01708 863070 to secure your session.

What Visitors Say

★★★★★xxnikki2 months ago

“Had a fantastic experience at Lakeside Karting! The whole team were amazing, especially the pit staff. My son was very nervous and scared at first, but they were so patient and reassuring. They walked him through everything, stood with him whole I showed him a lap, and did a…”

★★★★★Darren8 months ago

“The staff are friendly and helpful, a great view of the track from a balcony with up to date info of the track activity makes this a fantastic place to go and participate in some fun. Refreshments also available from a food van by the entrance, great day out Highly recommended”

★★★★★Russell8 months ago

“Lakeside is a fast flowing track laid out very well and maintained to the best standards I know as I’ve raced in Rotax max in many different tracks the staff are very helpful and keep you updated at all times if there are any changes”

Reviews via Google Maps

Other Tracks Nearby

TeamSport Docklands

East London

800m Thames-side track with Combat Karts.

🏢 Indoor ⚡ Electric