2 tracks in County Antrim run birthday parties events. The single thing that decides whether this works is age and height, and it catches people out constantly.
Doagh, County Antrim
Need 4 Speed is an indoor karting track on Kilbride Road in Doagh, between Ballyclare and Antrim. Every booking is given sole use of the track, with no more than seven karts out at once.
Ballymena, County Antrim
Raceview Karting is an indoor hire kart track on the Woodside Road industrial estate in Ballymena, County Antrim. It opens Thursday to Sunday, with evening sessions through the week and longer hours at weekends.
Price not published
The thing that catches groups out. Below the minimum you either pay for absent drivers or book an open session instead.
Bangor, County Down
Eddie Irvine Sports is an indoor karting centre on Balloo Road in Bangor, County Down, about 15 minutes from Belfast. It has been open since 2003 and is owned by former Formula 1 driver Eddie Irvine.
Kilrea, County Londonderry
K-Team Karting is an outdoor track on Movanagher Road near Kilrea, south of Coleraine in County Londonderry. Each group has the circuit to itself, and booking is required.
Always check both. The gap between a 1.20m and a 1.40m minimum is the difference between an eight-year-old driving and watching.
Purpose-built junior karts fit smaller drivers properly. Some tracks also fit remote speed limiters so staff can build a nervous child up gradually.
Children mixed in with adults have a worse time. Ask whether junior sessions run separately.
Food, a private room, a podium and a trophy make it a party. Without them it is a driving session with cake in the car.