Outdoor
Go Karting in Dorset
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Your ultimate guide to go-karting in Dorset.
Dorset’s karting scene has recently been transformed. For years, it was defined purely by raw, outdoor petrol racing at historic venues like Clay Pigeon. However, with the opening of a state-of-the-art indoor facility in Bournemouth, the county now offers a perfect balance: high-speed tarmac for the summer and high-tech electric circuits for the winter.
The biggest recent news for the region is the arrival of TeamSport Bournemouth (Wallisdown). This brand-new indoor venue has brought high-tech racing to the coast, featuring a multi-level track with ramps and a fleet of rapid electric karts. It is the perfect option for families and stag groups who want guaranteed racing regardless of the unpredictable British weather.
For those who prefer the traditional roar of a petrol engine, South Coast Karting is the "local hero." Located at Chapel Gate (next to Bournemouth Airport), this outdoor track is the spiritual successor to the famous Matchams circuit. It features a technical 420m tarmac layout that is fully floodlit, allowing for atmospheric night racing. It runs a fleet of 200cc petrol karts and is widely praised for its "by racers, for racers" management style.
Further west, near Dorchester and Yeovil, lies the legendary Clay Pigeon Raceway. This is a serious championship venue that has hosted national stars (including Jenson Button and Lando Norris). While it is primarily an owner-driver club, it offers rental karting to the public. Crucially, hire karts are typically available Monday to Thursday only, as weekends are reserved for professional race meetings. It is the fastest and most demanding track in the county, but you must check the calendar before travelling.
Note: You may see references to "Adventure Wonderland" for karting. Please note that the main theme park rides have closed/restructured, and any remaining karts are typically low-speed pedal or coin-op attractions for small children, not race karts.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.
3 kart tracks
Outdoor
Indoor
Outdoor
Outdoor
Clay Pigeon Raceway
Dorchester, Dorset
Indoor
TeamSport Bournemouth
Bournemouth, Dorset
Outdoor
South Coast Karting
Christchurch, Dorset
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.
Find karting experiences in Dorset
Choose a town or postcode, then your group and date to find suitable sessions.
Go karting in Dorset - FAQs
Below are answers to common questions about the changing landscape of karting in Dorset, including the status of the famous Matchams track and weekend availability.
The original track at Matchams Leisure Park has closed, but the team relocated and rebranded as South Coast Karting. It is now located at Chapel Gate (near Bournemouth Airport), just a few miles from the old site. It offers a similar outdoor petrol experience on a 420m floodlit track.
TeamSport Bournemouth runs a fleet of electric karts. This modern facility (opened recently) was built specifically for electric racing, offering instant torque and a clean, fume-free indoor environment.
Generally, no. Clay Pigeon Raceway reserves weekends for MSUK owner-driver championships and club racing. Rental kart sessions ("Arrive & Drive") are typically available Monday to Thursday between 10am and 5pm. It is essential to book in advance.
It depends on the weather and your preference. South Coast Karting is excellent for groups who want outdoor petrol racing and is very close to the town centre. TeamSport Bournemouth is the safer bet if you want to avoid rain or prefer a modern facility with a bar and food on-site.
There is no dedicated commercial track in Poole town centre. However, TeamSport Bournemouth (Wallisdown) is located on the border between Poole and Bournemouth, making it very accessible for residents of both towns (approx. 15 mins drive).