About the track
PF International near Grantham is the longest circuit in this directory at 1,382 metres, and the only kart track in the UK holding a CIK-FIA International A Grade licence, which it achieved in 2011. Paul Fletcher established it in 1994 and it has been extended since.
The facilities are a step above a typical hire venue: a two storey timekeeping building, a large digital scoreboard, full circuit lighting, a complete circuit camera system, a medical centre and a fully tarmac paddock. There is a restaurant, a bar and retail shops on site.
The ten corners have names that will mean something to anyone who follows British karting. Litchfield Bridge at Turn 1, the Fullerton Esses at Turn 7, Bobby Game Corner at Turn 8 and Fletcher's Loop at Turn 9.
Two things to know before booking. Rental karting is 17 and over, which is among the highest minimums in this directory, so it is not a venue for a family day out with children. And everything is advance booking only with payment upfront, with an exclusive event needing at least 18 drivers.
Top speed of 50mph is the operator's published figure, not an independent measurement.
Racing your own kart
Test day briefings are given as a handout sheet at signing on, rather than the spoken briefing used for rental karting.
The karts
- OTK Viper TonyKart, Honda GX390, 390cc / 14hp
Sessions and prices
Set by the track. You book direct — we don't add a fee.
Good for
Opening hours
Advance booking only. Check the sessions page for actual availability rather than relying on opening hours.
Planning your visit
Accessibility
- Indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
- No weight restrictions, and adjustable seats and pedals on every kart.
- A fully functional medical centre on site.
- Drivers under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign them on.
Questions people ask
What is the minimum age at PF International?
Seventeen for rental karting. Drivers under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign them on. There is no junior or cadet provision, so it is not a venue for younger children.
How long is the circuit?
1,382 metres after a track extension, making it the longest circuit we list. It holds a CIK-FIA International A Grade licence, the only kart track in the UK to have one.
What karts do they use?
OTK Viper TonyKarts with 390cc Honda GX390 engines producing 14hp, quoted at over 50mph. They have a HEAD energy absorption system and adjustable seats and pedals, and are serviced and safety inspected daily.
Is there a weight limit?
No. The operator states there are no weight restrictions, and the seats and pedals adjust to suit all sizes.
How many drivers do we need for an event?
Eighteen for an exclusive event where the track is yours alone. Open events take any number and you race alongside other groups, though some formats need more drivers at peak times such as after 5pm on weekdays.
How long will it take?
An arrive and drive or practice session can be as short as 15 minutes. A Grand Prix for 20 drivers runs about two and a half hours, and larger groups take roughly an hour per ten drivers.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. All sessions are advance booking only with payment in advance, and there is no pay on the day. Group bookings can be made by phone on 01636 626747.
What happens if it rains?
Sessions go ahead, with wet suits provided if needed. Extreme conditions such as torrential rain, snow, sleet or fog may see an event cancelled.
What should I wear?
Sensible shoes, with no sandals or heels. Race suits and helmets are provided. Balaclavas and gloves are mandatory and cost £5 if you do not have your own, which you then keep.
Can I test my own kart there?
Yes. Two-stroke testing and Pro-Kart testing both run, alongside Trent Valley Kart Club race meetings. Test day briefings are given as a handout at signing on rather than the spoken briefing used for rental karting.
Do I need a driving licence?
No, though you must be able to operate the kart safely. If you are unsure whether you can take part, the circuit asks that you contact them first.
Getting there
Brandon, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 2AY
01636 626747
[email protected]
Where this came from
- eligibility, policies, address, opening hours — https://kartpfi.com/faqs (Operator's own site)
- circuit, karts, facilities — https://kartpfi.com/the-circuit (Operator's own site)