I’ve been lucky enough to visit racecourses all over the UK over the last 20 years, from famous venues hosting major festivals to smaller tracks that still deliver a brilliant day out. One thing I’ve learned is that every racecourse has its own character.
Some are steeped in history, some are incredibly modern, and others sit quietly in beautiful countryside, doing things their own way. This section of the site is my personal guide to UK racecourses, built from years of attending meetings, walking the tracks, and soaking up the atmosphere.
This isn’t a list of places to go for betting. It’s a collection of racecourse guides written for people who genuinely enjoy the sport, the venues, and the traditions of British horse racing.
Horse Racing in the UK
The UK has one of the richest horse racing landscapes in the world, with racecourses spread across England, Scotland and Wales. Between them, they host flat racing, National Hunt racing, and some of the biggest and most historic meetings in the sport.
Whether you prefer summer flat racing in the sunshine or the winter jumps season with its mud, scarves and roaring crowds, there’s a racecourse that suits every kind of racing fan.
What You’ll Find in These Racecourse Guides
Each racecourse guide on this site focuses on what it’s actually like to visit and follow racing at that venue.
- Overview of the racecourse and its location
- Types of racing held (flat, jumps or both)
- Track layout and unique features
- Facilities and viewing areas
- Accessibility, transport and parking
- Notable races and meetings
- Historic background and key moments
I aim to keep these guides practical, honest and useful, especially for anyone visiting a course for the first time.
Flat Racing & National Hunt Racecourses
Some UK racecourses specialise in flat racing, others focus on National Hunt racing, and many host both. Over the years, I’ve grown to appreciate how different these experiences can feel.
Flat racecourses often feel more open and expansive, while jumps tracks can be more intimate, especially on a cold winter afternoon when the crowd is right on top of the action.
Where relevant, each racecourse guide explains what type of racing takes place and what kind of meeting you can expect.
Racecourse History & Heritage
History plays a huge role in British horse racing, and many UK racecourses have been hosting racing for centuries. I’ve always felt that knowing a bit about a course’s past adds something extra to the day.
Throughout these guides, you’ll find links to deeper historical articles covering:
- The oldest racecourses in the UK
- Historic races and famous meetings
- How individual courses have evolved over time
Wherever possible, I’ve tied racecourse history into the guide itself, so you understand not just where you are, but why the place matters.
Racecourses by Country
To make things easier to explore, I’ve grouped UK racecourses by country:
- England racecourses
- Scotland racecourses
- Wales racecourses
Each racecourse has its own dedicated page, with information tailored specifically to that venue rather than generic racing advice.
Why I’m Building These Racecourse Guides
I still believe there’s nothing quite like being at a racecourse – hearing the hooves, feeling the crowd build, and watching horses thunder past the winning post. Apps and technology are great, but they don’t replace that experience.
These racecourse guides are my way of sharing what I’ve learned from years of going racing, hopefully helping others enjoy their days at the track just as much as I have.
If you’re planning a visit, exploring the sport for the first time, or simply curious about different UK courses, I hope these guides help point you in the right direction.