Horse racing has been at the forefront of the sports scene for centuries. This is especially true in the UK where the first documented race was held in 1174. In fact, UK race tracks alone hosted over 49,000 races between 2017 and 2021. These events attracted millions of spectators. And whilst some people simply enjoy the spectacle and atmosphere, most folks who watch horse racing in the UK like to wager on the outcomes.
One of the greatest things about betting on horse races in modern times is that you don’t even need to attend the racing facilities or off-track betting venues to get in on the horse racing betting action. All you need to do is pull out your mobile phone, launch your Copybet app, and place your bets. That said, there’s nothing quite like being there in person. The UK is home to approximately 60 horse racing tracks, and we will now take a look at five of the best.
Ascot Racecourse
Ascot Racecourse was founded by Queen Anne way back in 1711. It is home to the Royal Ascot which is an exciting and highly prestigious 5-day event. Despite its age, Ascot Racecourse is a state-of-the-art facility that offers a luxury experience including loads of amenities, fine dining, and other entertainment like concerts and exhibitions. With 70,000 seats, Ascot Racecourse provides spectators with an electric yet dignified atmosphere.
Cheltenham Racecourse
Located in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, the Cheltenham Racecourse is one of the most famous horse racing venues in the country. The venue’s flagship event is the Cheltenham Festival which is usually a four-day event held every March. Attendees are treated to a variety of high-profile competitions including the Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Championship Chase, and the ever-popular Cheltenham Gold Cup. Cheltenham Racecourse opened in 1818 and it now has a seating capacity of around 67,500 making it one of the largest and most visited horse racing venues in the UK.
Aintree Racecourse
Ascot and Cheltenham may be among the biggest UK racecourses in terms of seating, but Aintree is the largest with a seating capacity of 75,000. Aintree is located in Liverpool and is home to the renowned Grand National which has been contested since 1839. In addition to horse racing, visitors have access to a wide range of luxury amenities as well as the Aintree Golf Centre which is one of the longest 9-hole golf courses the UK has to offer.
Newmarket Racecourse
Newmarket Racecourse is steeped in history having opened in 1667. Newmarket is commonly referred to as the “Home of Horseracing” due to its strong connection to the horse racing industry. Like many other major horse racing venues, the Newmarket Racecourse features two tracks. The Rowley Mile is the primary course and it hosts several large racing events throughout the spring and autumn. The July Course offers racing during the summertime. Visitors can enjoy some of the UK’s most prestigious racing events including the 1000 Guinea Stakes and the 2000 Guinea Stakes.
Epsom Downs
Epsom Downs saw its first race in 1661 although some historians claim that the site was hosting horse races as far back as the 1640s. In either case, this is one of the oldest racecourses on the planet and it is known for being the home of the annual Epsom Derby. The Derby, which is a flat race featuring three-year-old thoroughbred colts and fillies, was first held in 1780 making it one of the classics. Epsom Downs is rather unique in that the track features a steep and challenging incline known as “The Hill”. The venue is also surrounded by stunning countryside views and is a popular location for other recreational activities.
Summary
Sure, you can watch horse races on television or on streaming services, but there is no better way to enjoy the ultimate experience than being there. Whilst you now know about five of the most famous horse racing venues in the country, the UK has many other horse racing facilities that offer interesting histories, luxury amenities, and some of the biggest and most famous horse racing events in the world. If you are in the UK, then you won’t need to travel too far.
