15c Mostly Cloudy
Barmouth Viaduct at Sunset 
Llanberis from Penllyn 
Morfa Bychan beach near Porthmadog 
What's the attraction?
Live out your Lewis Hamilton dreams. The Circuit, in Sandycroft, Deeside, is one of the largest indoor go-karting tracks in the area. As well as the thrill of the race, its track has a new thunder road section, with 150m outdoors plus two very fast 75m straights, a 30m Monaco indoor tunnel, an outdoor hairpin and a banker ramp. In addition there's a 350m separate junior circuit, complete with exciting track layout and modern safety barriers.
What's on offer?
There's a fleet of modern, race-prepared Biz karts, so drivers can hit 45mph - when you're just 2in above the ground, this feels much faster than it sounds. There's different options - Arrive and Drive sessions, with 15 minutes of driving fun; enduro for team building; or a full Grand Prix session - drivers take part in five qualifying heats.
After all the heats have been completed, the top 16 highest point scorers will take part in semi-finals, then the final top 6 points scorers can warm up their tyres for the final - a gruelling sprint.
How did you get there?
We travelled on to the A55 via Mold, then headed towards the A494 following signs for Queensferry. We then turned off at Sandycroft and went B5129, turning left after the Bridge Inn Pub.
How long did you stay?
About an hour and a half because we opted for the Arrive and Drive session.
Did you take a brolly?
Most of the track is indoors so this is an excellent rainy day attraction.
What did you do there?
We were given a full safety talk, including tips on kart control and racing lines. We were kitted out in race suits, gloves and helmets. Then the fun began. For one moment it felt more like Monaco than Sandycroft, I was imaging myself to be a budding Lewis Hamilton on the starting grid, until my son raced past - before I even started. It was amazing how the competitive side of yourself knocks all common sense out of the window as you race down the track at what seems to be incredibly fast speeds.
We raced around the track for 15 minutes (which passes by much too quickly) then at the end all drivers were presented with a full printout of their lap times. We then went to the A La Kart café for a bite to eat while we discussed the finer details of the race and why my kart seemed to lose control on one corner - which couldn't have been my own fault...
How much did it cost you?
We paid £13 each for a 15-minute Arrive & Drive session. Organised race events cost from £30- £35 a head. Call the Race Team on 01244 531652 for availability and booking.
How about food and drink?
There is a café which offers fast food options from burgers to hot dogs, pizza and chicken nuggets. We opted for breakfast baps - which were the size of dinner plates - packed to the brim with sausages, eggs, bacon and black pudding. The children went for the equally healthy cheeseburgers. It was really hot in the racing suits so the drinks were most welcome. The food was simple, ample and delicious. They also put on party packages for the younger drivers from £15 each.
Are there any shops?
No, but it's near Broughton shopping centre if anyone needs a little retail therapy afterwards.
Is it ok for kids?
Yes, as long as drivers listen to what they are instructed to do, they should be fine. The karts have a remote control speed system, so staff can slow them down or turn them off at the flick of a switch. However, they must be aged at least eight, and 1.25m or taller. Race suits, crash helmets and gloves are provided plus sensible footwear trainers are best. The Circuit also has a special fleet of cadet karts for the younger drivers. These have a restricted engine for safety and fully-adjustable seats.
Can people with disabilities get around?
The circuit has some adapted karts - call for details.
What were the best bits?
We were divided on this - I thought it was the way I passed my wife on the left side of the track inside the tunnel. However James rated burning me off at the starting grid was the best. In truth, the whole racing experience from start to finish was the best bit. Next time we'll do the longer session - and take up the option for a bottle of bubbly for the winner to spray over the also-rans.
Opening times?
Open daily till late at night. Details onŠ 01244 531652 or visit http://www.thecircuit.co.uk/. Or write to info@thecircuit.co.uk , or the Circuit, Engineers Park, Babbage Road, Sandycroft, Flintshire.
