Xtreme Karting / Combat Edinburgh

Indoor go-kart racing near Newbridge isn't quite what you'd expect from Edinburgh, but Xtreme Karting delivers exactly what it promises - proper competitive fun in a warehouse setting. The track winds around plenty of corners, the karts have actual pace, and the lap timing system means you can actually see if you're getting faster or just imagining it.

It's brilliant for families who want something loud and hands-on, or groups of mates looking to settle petty scores on the track rather than down the pub. Kids from about eight upwards will genuinely engage with it; younger ones find the karts a bit demanding. The staff know what they're doing - safety briefing's thorough without being tedious, and they'll sort you out with appropriate vehicles.

You'll want to allow at least two hours, though an hour's actual racing will knacker you out more than you'd think. It's not free - expect to pay per race or book a package - so budget accordingly. Go off-peak if you can; weekday mornings are quieter than Saturday afternoons. The venue sits just outside Edinburgh proper, which makes it handy if you're staying at Linwater Caravan Park nearby and need a couple of hours of indoor entertainment before heading out to the Pentland Hills or city centre.

Worth a visit? If your crew are into competitive speed, absolutely. If quiet contemplation is your thing, give it a miss.