London's best driving days: from go-karting to Silverstone
On Sunday the Formula One season kicks off in Melbourne, Australia. If you secretly believe you should be lining up on the grid next to Lewis and Jenson (seriously, Dad, all you had to do was start me in karting aged four), there are at least other ways for you to indulge your inner revhead. Champagne-spraying afterwards optional.
Team Sport Tower Bridge
The electric cars can hit 40mph on the straight at this indoor go-karting track in Bermondsey. Race your friends — it’s probably the most fun you can have with overalls and a helmet on.
£44.99 for three races (eight mins each), 0844 998 0000, team-sport.co.uk
Mercedes Benz World
Head to the famous Brooklands racing circuit at Weybridge in Surrey. There you can hit the race track in one of Mercedes’ sports cars, or explore the off-road track in a 4x4, doing tricks such as balancing the car on two wheels.
From £125 for one hour in the 4x4, 0370 400 4000, mercedes-benz.co.uk
Revolution Karting, Mile End
This outdoor track in the East End has quiet but speedy battery-powered karts. There’s also a kart club for children.
From £25, 020 7538 5195, revolutionkarting.com
Silverstone
It’s a trek from London but it’s the track where the British Grand Prix is held in June. One option is a “Your Car Our Track” day, where pro-drivers show you what your old banger can do.
From £275, 0844 3750 740, silverstone.co.uk
Ice Karting at Streatham Ice Arena
This one doesn’t open until June but it’s racing! On ice! What’s not to love? Streatham also hosts children’s parties.
From June 6, 020 8677 8677, icekartinglondon.co.uk
