Whilton Mill

About Whilton Mill

Whilton Mill is one of Britain's most respected outdoor kart circuits, set in the Northamptonshire countryside just down the road from Silverstone. Built in 1991, it has grown into a genuine dual-purpose venue: a serious competition circuit that hosts the British Kart Championships and rounds of the Super 1 Series, and at the same time a high-quality rental centre open to the public. That combination is the whole appeal — you can turn up for an arrive & drive session on the same tarmac where national-level club racing takes place. It is well reviewed too, sitting around 4.7 out of 5 across more than a thousand Google reviews.

The Circuit

The headline layout is a 1,200-metre International Circuit, with a shorter 960m National configuration also in use for different events. Public rental sessions run Birel Art N35 karts with 390cc engines, quoted at speeds of up to 50mph — quick enough to feel every bit of the long straights. The layout mixes fast sweeping corners, including the well-known "Oblivion", with heavy braking zones that genuinely reward commitment. At this length there is room for proper racecraft — late braking, carrying speed through the sweepers and stringing consistent laps together over a full run — rather than a couple of frantic laps on a tight loop.

Who Should Visit

Whilton Mill suits drivers who want a real circuit rather than a quick novelty spin. The full-length track and 50mph karts make it a favourite for experienced amateurs, owner-drivers and anyone stepping towards club competition — and with the British Kart Championships racing here, keen young racers have a genuine ladder to aim at. Junior activities start from age 6, while the faster adult rental karts require drivers to be at least 1.4m tall, so it is worth checking your group meets the height and age requirements before booking. First-timers are still well catered for through arrive & drive sessions and the on-site Karting Academy, and there are packages for parties, groups and corporate days.

Planning Your Visit

Whilton Mill is at Whilton Locks, near Daventry, Northamptonshire (NN11 2NH), handy for the M1 and Silverstone, and the wider site also runs activities like off-roading, archery and clay shooting if you are making a day of it. Food is available on site — the "Drive & Dine" option pairs karting with a burger or hot dog — so you do not need to head off straight after your session.

Pricing is mid-range for UK karting and good value for a circuit of this calibre. Availability varies because the venue juggles public sessions with a busy race calendar, so book ahead for weekends, parties and group visits, and confirm current session times, prices and driver requirements directly with Whilton Mill before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions