The Petrolhead's Guide to Stag Dos: Driving & Adrenaline
Vroom Vroom!
Any petrolhead will tell you they would race a lawnmower if given half a chance. So, for the groom who has a need for speed, a standard night at the pub simply won't cut it.
From racing rage buggies in the mud to driving full-sized tanks in Nottingham, we have compiled the definitive list of driving activities for your stag do. Buckle up.
Part 1: The Heavyweights (Tanks & APCs)
Sometimes speed isn't everything. Sometimes you just want to crush things.
Tank Paintball (Nottingham)
The Ultimate War Game.
Why just drive a tank when you can shoot things with it? This activity uses full-sized, ex-military tanks. You don't just drive; you crew the vehicle, aim the cannon, and fire giant paintballs at your mates in opposing tanks. It is the ultimate game of tag, played with 15-tonne war machines.
APC Driving
Heavy Metal.
Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) like the FV432 are still used by the military today. This is a unique opportunity to get behind the controls of a 15-tonne monster. It packs a Rolls Royce engine and can reach 70kph. It isn't about racing; it's about raw power and armour.
Part 2: Off-Road Racing
For those who want to get muddy and go fast.
Rage Buggies
The Stag Do Classic.
These aren't your average go-karts. Rage Buggies are 600cc dirt-track beasts that can hit 60mph. They have an open axle and tough suspension, designed for drifting around muddy corners. It is fast, furious, and incredibly competitive.
Quad Biking
All-Terrain Action.
Quad bikes have always been popular because they can handle anything. Whether you are trekking through a forest or racing around a track, these 4x4 machines have serious thump when you pull the throttle. Be prepared to get covered in mud.
Argocats
The Amphibious Option.
Designed for military use, these six or eight-wheeled vehicles are truly "All Terrain"—they can drive on land and float on water. They steer like a tank (by braking wheels on one side) and offer a completely unique driving experience.
Part 3: Track & Tarmac
If you prefer slick tyres and racing lines.
Go Karting
The Old Reliable.
It goes without saying. Almost every major city has a track, and the rivalry it creates is unmatched. Many centres are now moving to electric karts, which means instant torque and even faster acceleration.
Drift Trikes
Sideways Fun.
These are electric-powered adult trikes with slick rear wheels designed specifically for drifting. You spend more time going sideways than forwards. It is like Mario Kart in real life.
Mini Motos
Tiny Bikes, Big Laughs.
You will look ridiculous, but that is the point. These are miniature racing bikes that reach impressive speeds. Getting your knee down on a bike that is only 18 inches off the ground is a skill that takes some mastering.
Part 4: The Weird & Wonderful
Driving activities you probably haven't seen before.
4x4 Blind Driving
Trust Exercise (Or Not).
Take a classic Land Rover and a 4x4 course. Now, blindfold the driver. The rest of the stag group sits in the back and shouts directions. It is chaotic, hilarious, and usually involves a lot of swearing.
Hovercrafts
No Brakes, No Wheel.
Flying a hovercraft is like trying to drive on ice. There are no brakes and you steer by shifting your body weight. Mastering these machines around a time-trial course is much harder—and funnier—than it looks.
Ice Karting
Rally Style.
Available in selected winter destinations, this features karts with studded tyres driving on a frozen lake or ice rink. It teaches you real car control and allows for epic drifts.
Blow Karting
Wind Power.
Picture a windsurf sail attached to a go-kart chassis. On a windy beach or airfield, these things can rip along at scary speeds. It’s totally silent (apart from your screaming) and fuelled purely by Mother Nature.