Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best racecourse for me?

Based on your location, your best-suited racecourse will most likely be the one closest to your home address. You can find out your nearest track on our Racecourses page.

2. Can I book tickets in advance?

Yes, you can. Most racecourses have ticketing sections to their websites and all tracks have telephone ticketing access. We have all of Britain’s BHA licensed racecourse websites available to view on our Racecourses page.

3. What tickets are available?

At most racecourses, a variety of ticket types are available to buy to get you into different sections of the course. Most tracks have a ‘Premier Enclosure’ and a ‘Grandstand Enclosure’. The Premier Enclosure tends to give you a better viewpoint of the racing action than the Grandstand Enclosure. Information on individual courses can be found on their respective websites. You can locate the racetrack’s website via our Racecourses page.

4. Can I park at the racecourse?

Most racecourses facilitate the parking of racegoers’s cars, however, it is probably best to check with each individual racecourse about what they offer. You can locate the racetrack’s website on our Racecourses page.

5. What should I wear?

Dependant on where your ticket is will determine what you are expected to wear. But, generically, racegoers are advised that smart dress is required in the Premier Enclosure and hospitality areas, with more relaxed attire allowed in other sections of the racecourse. To be on the safe side, we would advise checking the course you would like to visit’s dress code, which can be found on their website. You can locate the racetrack’s website on our Racecourses page. Here is a general guide of what to wear during the Flat and Jump racing seasons.

6. Can I bring a dog to the racecourse?

For safety reasons, only assistance dogs are allowed into racecourse enclosures on racedays.

7. Where can I see horses before they go into the parade ring?

Before horses go into the main parade ring, they are prepared in the pre-parade ring. All racecourses will have a pre-parade ring, which should be easily accessible (access maybe limited due to your ticket). The pre-parade ring will be located in the racecourse’s racecard in the map section. If you do not have a racecard, any on course officials will happily help you find your way to the pre-parade ring.

8. Do I need a racecard?

You do not have to buy a racecard, however, buying one will help you get all the information you need to enjoy your day at the races.

9. How many races are there on a particular race day?

On a normal race day, racecourses tend to typically hold seven races on the card. However, sometimes there are situations when there are more or less. Generally, there will be between 6-8 races on any given race day. You can find out how many races are on your particular race day on the racecourse’s website. You can locate the racetrack’s website on our Racecourses page.

10. Is there a cashpoint?

Most racecourses will have cashpoints, however, it is advised that you take cash out before heading to the racecourse. This is because the cashpoints can get quite busy on course and may spoil your experience.

11. Is the racecourse suitable for children?

All racecourses are suitable for children. There are fun activities for all kids of all ages to enjoy together with the racing action, including on selected days when the ‘Kids Love the Races’ roadshow runs. To find a specific family day near you, look at our Fixtures page and filter by event type.

12. How do I bet?

Placing a bet is simple. To help you out, why not take a look at the easy-to-follow betting content in our Guides section.

13. Are there refreshments on course?

All racecourses have refreshments on course to buy. From soft drinks, sweets and cakes, to burgers, chips and hot dogs, all racecourses will be able to cater for your on-course needs. If you fancy dining at the racecourse, all tracks have hospitality for you to buy. To find out more about hospitality at your chosen course, visit their website. You can locate the racetrack’s website on our Racecourses page.