Plan a day at the races

Horse racing in Great Britain

Great Britain has 59 active racecourses across England, Scotland and Wales. They vary enormously: Newmarket is the historic headquarters of Flat racing, Aintree is famous for the Grand National, and Cheltenham hosts the leading festival of the Jump season. Alongside these internationally known venues are smaller country and regional courses with their own traditions and character.

Courses are not standardised like many sports grounds. They may be left- or right-handed, flat or undulating, broad and galloping or tight and sharply turning. This variety is part of British racing's appeal and means that some horses are particularly well suited to certain tracks.

Flat racing and Jump racing

Flat racing

Flat races are run without obstacles over distances ranging from short five-furlong sprints to staying races of two miles or more. The traditional turf season is concentrated between spring and autumn, while all-weather courses allow Flat racing to continue throughout the year.

Jump racing

Jump racing, also called National Hunt racing, includes hurdle races and steeplechases over larger fences. The core season runs through autumn and winter into spring, although several courses stage summer jumping. Jump races are generally longer and place greater emphasis on stamina and jumping ability.

Choosing a fixture and buying tickets

A standard afternoon meeting can be an ideal first visit, while festivals, family days, evening meetings and music events offer a different atmosphere. Major meetings usually attract larger crowds and higher ticket prices, so booking ahead is advisable. Many courses offer reduced advance prices, packages and free admission for accompanied children, but arrangements vary.

Check the racecourse's own website before travelling. It is the best source for confirmed opening times, enclosure choices, ticket conditions and any raceday-specific information.

What to expect on a raceday

• Gates commonly open around two hours before the first race.
• The parade ring lets visitors see the horses before each race.
• Races are normally spaced about 30 minutes apart.
• Food, drink and seating choices depend on the enclosure and course.
• Dress codes range from relaxed to formal, particularly in premium enclosures or on major days.

You do not need to place a bet to enjoy racing. Watching the horses in the parade ring, exploring the course and following the races from different viewing areas can fill the whole day.

Travel and accessibility

Some urban courses are within walking distance of a railway station, while rural venues may require a bus, taxi or car. Look for raceday shuttle services and book parking in advance where required. Allow additional time for traffic around major meetings.

Accessibility arrangements differ between historic and modern venues. Contact the racecourse directly if you need step-free routes, accessible parking, viewing platforms, hearing support or space for a personal assistant. Checking in advance is especially important where temporary facilities are used.

Horse and participant welfare

British racing is regulated by the British Horseracing Authority, with veterinary and medical teams present on racedays. Racing Welfare supports people working throughout the industry, while Retraining of Racehorses promotes second careers and responsible aftercare for horses when they leave racing.

Betting should always remain optional entertainment. Anyone who wants information or support concerning gambling can use the independent resources provided by GambleAware.

Useful official resources

• Great British Racing fixtures Search upcoming racedays by date, racecourse and event type.
• Racecourse Association Racecourse and fixture information from the representative body for British courses.
• British Horseracing Authority Official regulation, racing information, results and industry news.
• National Rail Plan rail journeys and check service information before travelling.
• Racing Welfare Support and guidance for people working in or retired from British racing.
• Retraining of Racehorses British racing's official charity for the welfare and retraining of former racehorses.
• GambleAware Independent information, tools and support concerning gambling.