Amidst signature grey skies and celebrated pubs, one other British feature is also its world-class horseracing calendar. There are 60 Flat and National Hunt racecourses in Britain alone, including 17 tracks suitable for both disciplines. With so many to choose from up and down the country, it can be difficult to know which ones are worth your while. Let’s see some of the best racecourses to visit in the UK and what makes them unique.
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Best UK Racecourses – Doncaster
Doncaster is the jewel in Yorkshire’s racing crown. It is built for both Flat and National Hunt racing. Doncaster hosts 36 races throughout the year, making it one of the busiest tracks in the country. The highlights at Doncaster are its Flat racing days. They mark the beginning and end of the season with two exceptional events.
The Doncaster racecourse also holds a special place in the heart of racers. The Town Moor boasts a long history in racing and is home to St. Leger, the oldest classic horse race.
Located in South Yorkshire, Doncaster is accessible from up and down the country. Keen visitors can easily find a variety of London to Doncaster train tickets online and decide what departure time suits their schedule.
Royal Racecourses – Ascot
Renowned for its affiliations with the Royal Family, the Royal Ascot is one of the most prestigious racing events in the country. It hosts 26 days of world-class horseracing, including nine Group 1 Flat races. The track is used throughout the year for Flat and National Hunt races. However, the Royal Ascot is when it really comes into its own.
Esteemed guests descend into the stalls to watch the racing, enjoying the June sunshine alongside other world-class entertainment and cuisine.
UK Tradition Racecourses – Aintree
The home of the Grand National since 1839, Liverpool welcomes enormous crows of over 70,000 people to the event annually. As one of the most highly sought-after events in the racing season, tickets sell out within minutes.
The popularity of the event likely stems from the high-octane drama that comes with the dozens of hurdles and obstacles the jockey and his horse have to navigate. Maybe it’s the thrill of the crowd. Whatever it is, Aintree should be on every ardent racegoer’s bucket list.
Top UK Racecourses – York
Yorkshire is certainly at the top when it comes to horseracing. Situated in North Yorkshire, York Racecourse has been awarded Best Racecourse in Britain four times. It hosts Flat racing in summer with the highly anticipated Ebor Festival taking place at the end of August.
Make sure to take your glad rags – as well as an entertainment hotspot. It also doubles as Yorkshire’s catwalk with guys and girls dressing to the nines to place some bets and have a good time.
Click the link to find out more things to do in York.
What other racecourses do you recommend in the UK? Tell me all about it in the comments below.