Karting North East (Warden Law)
About Karting North East (Warden Law)
Warden Law Motorsports Centre (home to Karting North East) is a heavyweight in the British karting scene. Located just off the A19 near Sunderland, this facility boasts a massive 1,200-meter international circuit, making it one of the longest and fastest outdoor tracks in the UK. This isn't just a rental track; it is a Motorsport UK approved venue that hosts the British Kart Championships. However, for the general public, it offers an incredible "Arrive & Drive" experience where you can race on the same tarmac as future F1 stars. With a fleet of powerful 390cc Sodi karts and grid capacities of up to 35 drivers, Warden Law delivers a true Grand Prix atmosphere for stags, corporate days, and serious racers.
Activities
Occasions
Facilities
Detailed guide
The Track Layout
The circuit at Warden Law is legendary for its scale and technicality.
- The Full Circuit: At 1.2km, the track features a blend of high-speed straights, sweeping curves, and a technical infield section. It is wide enough to support 35 karts racing simultaneously, which is rare for rental karting.
- Family Circuit (850m): For mixed groups or junior sessions, the track can be configured to an 850m layout, cutting out the most difficult technical section to ensure a flowing, safe race for younger drivers.
- Surface: The track uses professional-grade asphalt that provides immense grip, especially in the dry.
The Karts
Karting North East operates a premium fleet of Sodi karts.
- Adult Karts (Sodi GT5): These are beasts. Powered by 390cc Honda engines, they offer significantly more torque and top speed (60mph+) than standard 200cc rental karts. Available for drivers 14+ years old.
- Junior Karts (Sodi LR5): Designed for ages 8-13. These 160cc karts are adjustable to fit smaller drivers (min height 1.3m) and are speed-restricted to ensure safety while still being plenty fast enough for the big track.
Facilities & Activities
Warden Law is a multi-activity centre, perfect for full days out.
- Off-Track Activities: Besides karting, the site offers Paintball, Tomahawk Throwing, and Archery, making it a top destination for Stag & Hen dos in the North East.
- Clubhouse: A comfortable indoor area to sign on and relax, with viewing areas to watch the races.
- Owner-Drivers: The venue is a major hub for private owners (Warden Law Kart Club), offering test days for those with their own Rotax or X30 machinery.
Race Formats
- Junior Induction: Mandatory training sessions for first-time drivers aged 8-11 to ensure they are safe before joining open sessions.
- Timed Sessions: 30-minute open practice sessions where you compete for the fastest lap.
- Grand Prix: The full experience. Includes practice, qualifying, and a grid-start final race with a trophy presentation on the podium.
Clubs and organisations
Circuit layouts
1200m Circuit
1200 metres · 14 corners
Family Circuit
850 metres · 9 corners
