PF International (PFI)

About PF International (PFI)

PF International — PFI, or Paul Fletcher International after the racer who built it in 1994 — is arguably the most prestigious kart circuit in Britain. Its 1,382-metre track near Grantham holds a CIK-FIA International "A" grade licence, and it is the only short kart circuit in the UK to do so. That is why it is the permanent home of the Kartmasters British Grand Prix and has staged rounds of the FIA Karting World and European Championships. Past Kartmasters winners here include Lewis Hamilton (1996) and George Russell (2010) — both went on to Formula 1. For a rental driver, that heritage is the whole appeal: you are lapping the same tarmac as future world champions.

The Circuit

The 1,382m layout was extended to full international length in 2011, and its signature feature is a bridge section that makes it genuinely one of a kind among UK outdoor circuits. Long straights feed into a mix of high-speed sweepers and tighter technical complexes, so there are real overtaking opportunities you will never get on a short indoor loop. It rewards proper racecraft — braking points, racing lines and consistency over a full race distance — rather than one hot lap. Rental karting uses modern Tony Kart and Viper machines, while experienced owner-drivers can test 2-stroke and Pro-Kart equipment on dedicated days.

Who Should Visit

PFI suits two crowds especially well. Improving and serious drivers come for the challenge of a full-length international circuit, the owner-driver test days (Thursday to Saturday), and the racing calendar — monthly Trent Valley Kart Club meetings and the popular Sunday 100 team events. Corporate and group bookings, meanwhile, get a backdrop few venues can match: exclusive track hire, professional timing and results, and catering, at a circuit where F1 world champions have raced.

One thing to plan around: rental karting here is strictly 17 and over, so PFI is aimed at adults and older teenagers rather than younger children's parties. If you are booking for kids, an indoor centre in the region will suit better — but for anyone chasing a proper racing experience, little in the UK compares.

Planning Your Visit

PFI is at Stragglethorpe Lane, Brandon, near Grantham, Lincolnshire (NG32 2AY), about 15 minutes from the A1. On site you will find a bar and café, indoor and outdoor viewing areas, a retail shop, and garage rental for owner-drivers. As an outdoor venue, sessions run in most conditions — wet running is part of the sport here — though it is worth checking ahead if severe weather is forecast.

Rental sessions and owner-driver days both book up, particularly around club race weekends, so reserve in advance. Prices sit at the premium end of UK karting; always confirm current rates and session times directly with PFI before travelling, as they vary through the year.

Frequently Asked Questions