Three young drivers on the podium with trophies

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What to bring, when to arrive, who can drive and how booking works. If your question is not here, call the circuit and ask.

The 38 questions we are asked most, answered by the people who run the circuit. Anything else, call 01277 260001 or send an enquiry.

Do I need to wear a balaclava if I bring my own helmet?+

No. If you are using your own helmet it is your choice whether you wear a balaclava.

Can I use a helmet cam or chest cam such as a GoPro?+

Unfortunately not. Following guidance from the National Karting Association we no longer allow any cameras for onboard filming. The NKA followed a ban by the Motor Sport Association due to various safety issues.

Is it safe?+

We have very few accidents here and our safety record speaks for itself. The design of the circuit, the safety barriers, the design of the karts, the ongoing preventative maintenance programme, the safety briefing and video, staff training and monitoring, the protective racewear, vigilant marshalling and a safety first culture among all staff all go towards making us as safe as we possibly can be.

Can I have kart number 2?+

No. It is not possible to request a particular kart. They are rotated and different ones are put out every day. The numbers are also constantly changed.

Which is the fastest kart?+

All the karts are tested regularly and kept to within half a second of each other. Karts change all the time as parts are replaced daily, and the numbers are constantly changed.

When should I arrive at the circuit?+

You will be given an arrival time when booking. For events this is 1 hour before your allocated track time, for practice sessions 45 minutes beforehand. If you arrive after this time, even by 5 minutes, it may affect your time on the circuit. If you are more than 10 to 15 minutes late you may lose your slot altogether. If you are late you will not receive a refund under any circumstance.

Can I wear my glasses?+

If you need glasses to see properly, it is probably best you wear them.

I came last week. Do I have to watch the video briefing again?+

Yes, unless you become a member, which is less than £20 for the whole year. The benefits are numerous and subject to change, so please call to check. Most think the greatest benefit is not having to sit through another video briefing.

Can you smoke at the circuit?+

Smoking is permitted in the outside spectator areas and on the balcony.

What is your drink and drugs policy?+

We operate a zero alcohol and drugs policy. If any member of staff suspects someone is under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, they will not be allowed to drive. This is for the safety of everyone.

Can I take my car or bike round the track?+

No. Our circuit is not suitable for cars or road bikes.

Do you offer group discounts?+

Not in general. For very large groups we may offer extra driving time. Please call and ask to speak to a member of our sales team.

Do you offer lessons or private tuition?+

Yes. We offer one to one tuition, including 30 minutes of theory and two 15 minute driving sessions, with our expert tutors, who are all kart racers.

Do you have creche facilities?+

Unfortunately not. We ask that young children are not left unsupervised while you are driving.

Is there anywhere to stay nearby?+

Yes. There are numerous hotels nearby.

Is there anywhere close to go out afterwards?+

We are less than 2 miles from Brentwood High Street, with the now infamous Sugar Hut nightclub as well as numerous bars and restaurants.

Can you arrange transport?+

Yes. As long as we have reasonable notice we can arrange transport with reliable local companies, whether you prefer a coach, a limo or taxis.

Do you run in the evening, in the dark? What time do you close?+

Yes, we are fully floodlit. Please check with the circuit for the seasonal opening hours.

Do you provide trophies and bubbly?+

For every race event the top three drivers receive a trophy and a bottle of bubbly. We also offer an upgrade to larger trophies and Moet champagne. Alternatively, we can arrange for every member of your party to leave with a memento of the day.

Can I hire the whole circuit for the day?+

Yes. Please call us to discuss hiring the whole circuit and facilities for the day. Whether it is a corporate or promotional event, we are always happy to talk.

What is your level of insurance cover?+

Our public liability insurance cover is up to £5m.

Can I take photos?+

Yes, please do. If you get any good ones, email them to chris@letsgoactive.co.uk and we can put them on our Facebook page.

Do you have an on site photographer?+

No, but we can arrange for a photographer to attend, subject to a small booking fee. We can also take photos of the podium ceremony if you ask one of the marshals or track staff.

Do you have changing and shower facilities?+

Yes we do, but only one shower, as demand is not very high.

I am colour blind. Can I drive?+

Yes, for practice sessions. As long as the circuit operators are made aware, they can use written boards and hand signals instead of coloured flags and lights.

I am autistic, or have one arm or one eye. Can I drive?+

Your safety is paramount. For any situation other than the norm we conduct a risk assessment. If we can be sure you pose no added danger to yourself, other drivers or staff, we will allow you to drive, though there may be some limitations. You are often the best judge of your own capabilities, so please be honest and responsible, and consult a manager.

Do you sell gift vouchers?+

Yes. LetsGoActive gift vouchers are available in £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100 denominations. They can be used as full or part payment at either circuit towards any booking or merchandise.

I am pregnant, have a bad back or a heart condition. Can I drive?+

No. We would not recommend driving for any of the above.

Can I pay on Bartercard?+

No, but you can use BBX if you are a member of the trade exchange. Please remember it may not always be possible to book at our peak times.

Am I going to fit in your karts? I am 20 stone, or 6ft 7in.+

We have had lots of drivers of that weight and height, but we cannot guarantee it as everyone is a different shape. If you are unsure, come down before booking and try our karts for size.

How do I get there by public transport?+

Head to Brentwood station from Liverpool Street. We are only a fifteen minute walk away. Google Maps is the best app to use. See our Find Us page for details.

Is there adequate car parking?+

Yes, there is plenty of free parking for all.

How far are you from London?+

Roughly 30 minutes from central London by car.

Can we add drivers on the day if we have a few extras?+

For exclusive race events it is usually possible to add and pay for extra drivers or teams on the day, unless the circuit maximums have been met. For open race events it may be possible, but unlikely, as we often sell out our open races.

Can you just pencil me in?+

For practice sessions and open events, no. We only put paid bookings in the diary because in the past people have not shown up and we have turned customers away. For exclusive race events, yes. We will take your details and put them in the diary. We ask for a deposit to secure the booking and full payment 14 days prior. No event takes place without full payment, and your event, team or place is at risk if you do not pay your deposit or final balance by the due date.

Do I need to book?+

For practice sessions and open events, not necessarily, but it is always best to if you want to confirm your slot.

Can I pay on the day?+

For practice sessions and open events, if you have not booked you can turn up on the day and take your chances on availability. If there is space, you can pay on the day. We cannot hold any places without full payment. For exclusive race events, no. All events must be pre paid as we have to arrange staff and book out your time slot.

Do I need a driving licence or special licence to race?+

No. Many of our regular customers hold no licence at all. We provide full instruction, and all drivers must attend a safety briefing and view the National Karting Association safety video.

Call 01277 260001Book online