Joyrider
Are the kids too big for the Mini Landrovers? Never mind, it’s not a problem!
Visitors above 140cm and under 17 years old are in for a treat! It’s time to step into the driver’s seat and embark on a joy-ride like no other. But don’t panic! Those over 80cm still get to experience the thrill from the passenger seat.
Our special 400-metre course awaits, and they’ll be cruising in style with our Diggerland Police cars!
How cool is that? It’s all about keeping the fun times, and the ride unforgettable!
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF THE DIGGERLAND ADMISSION TICKETJoyrider Information
The Joyrider is suitable for visitors over 80cm, including adults, OAPs or children. Those over the height of 140cm and under 17 years old are able to drive the vehicle. Adults and OAPs are welcome to ride as passengers only. Should visitors not reach the stated height, they unfortunately cannot participate in this activity.
A child participating in this activity may need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Fun Facts
Machine Name: SsangYong Rexton Ventura
Transmission: 2.2 Diesel Automatic
Seats: 7
Other Information
Please note that children will need to ride with a responsible adult.
Drive a Real Car Before 17 at Diggerland
At Diggerland, children under 17 and over 140cm tall can take control of a real vehicle on our purpose-built driving track.
This unique experience is part of our popular Joyrider ride, giving young drivers the chance to feel what it’s really like to be behind the wheel – years before they’re allowed on public roads.
Key Joyrider Driving Requirements
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Under 17 years old
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Over 140cm tall
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No driving licence needed
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Real car on a closed course
This makes Diggerland one of the very few places in the UK where you can drive a car before 17.
What Is the Joyrider Ride?
Joyrider – Junior Driving Experience
Are the kids too big for the Mini Landrovers? No problem!
The Joyrider is designed for older children who are ready for something more exciting. Drivers take control of a SsangYong Rexton Ventura and navigate a 400-metre course in one of our Diggerland Police cars.
It’s fun, confidence-boosting, and completely unforgettable.
Who Can Drive and Who Can Ride?
Driving the Car
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Children over 140cm and under 17 can drive the vehicle
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A responsible adult may need to accompany the child
Riding as a Passenger
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Visitors over 80cm (including adults and OAPs) can ride as passengers
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Adults cannot drive and may only ride as passengers
Important Safety Information
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Children under 80cm cannot participate
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All rides take place in a safe, supervised environment
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Children must ride with a responsible adult
Is It Legal to Drive a Car Before 17?
Yes – in specific, controlled environments like Diggerland.
While UK law requires drivers to be 17 on public roads, private land driving experiences are completely legal for younger drivers. That’s why Joyrider is such a popular choice for families searching: Where can my child drive a car before 17 Can kids drive cars legally in the UK? Driving experiences for under 17s!
Why Diggerland Is Perfect for Young Drivers
✔️ Real cars, not simulators
✔️ No driving licence required
✔️ Safe, closed-track environment
✔️ Confidence-building experience
✔️ Ideal for kids who love vehicles
For many children, Joyrider is their first ever driving experience – and one they’ll talk about for years.
Ready to let your child drive a car before they turn 17?
Book your Diggerland tickets today and experience the Joyrider ride for yourself.
Book Your Tickets to DiggerlandFrequently Asked Questions
Where can I drive a car before I’m 17 in the UK?
Children who are over 140cm tall and under 17 years old can drive a real car at Diggerland on the Joyrider attraction.
This takes place on a safe, closed track and no driving licence is required. View more here.
Is it safe for children to drive at Diggerland?
Yes. The Joyrider vehicle is supervised by a trained Diggerland marshal and fitted with dual control pedals, so the marshal can intervene immediately if needed. Safety is always our top priority.
Who can ride the Joyrider as a passenger?
Anyone over 80cm in height is welcome to ride as a passenger, including children, adults, and OAPs.
Do children need to be accompanied by an adult?
Yes. A child participating in any driving ride may need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Are there other driving rides at Diggerland?
Yes! Diggerland has lots of driving experiences included with admission. Height requirements vary, so be sure to check the ride height chart before your visit.
Driving attractions available at Diggerland:
- Joyrider
- Go-Karts
- Mini Landrovers
- JCB 3CX – yes, a real backhoe loader!
- Mini Tractors
- Robots
- Dumper Trucks
Ready to view the Joyrider at diggerland in action?
Watch our short video below to get an idea of what to expect.
please note, the video is of an old vehicle. Since this video we have upgraded the vehicle to a SsangYong Rexton Ventura.
