Science and Industry Museum
Working steam engines, the story of Cottonopolis, and hands-on galleries in the world's oldest surviving passenger railway station. Free, and the live demonstrations are the bit kids actually remember.
TeamSport Go Karting Manchester Victoria
Manchester, Greater Manchester
TeamSport's Victoria track sits under the Manchester Arena car park, a 550-metre multi-level circuit with 15 corners and a flyover. The karts are electric and the adult ones reach 45mph, so this is one for the 8 and ups, and only if they are big enough.
The rules are specific: 8 years old and a 25-inch inside leg, measured with shoes on. The kids Ultimate Race Experience is two races with a break, racing for the fastest lap. Prices are not published and change by day and time, so check the booking page. Spectators watch for free. Get there 40 minutes early for the briefing. Drive in via New Bridge Street and use the Arena car park.
What it costs: Prices vary by day, time, experience and group size and are only shown in the booking journey. Kids Ultimate Race Experience is two races with a break between. 3-for-2 offer on Friday to Sunday and bank holiday evenings (not December Fridays). Spectating is free.
Know before you go
- Measure inside leg before you book: children need 25 inches, crotch to floor with shoes on, as well as being 8 or over.
- Arrive 40 minutes before your drive time and allow up to two hours in total.
- Park in the Manchester Arena car park; Victoria Station Approach itself is a bus lane.
- Under-16s must have an adult with them, but the adult does not have to drive.
Worth knowing: 8+, min 25in inside leg.
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