The county’s history of horseracing can be traced back for centuries and North Yorkshire has influenced the evolution of modern-day racing thanks to the introduction of imported thoroughbreds. Yorkshire is also home to nine top-class racecourses, more than any other region in the whole of the UK, with a tangible passion for the sport and over 170 meetings per year including the oldest classic horse race in the world. At the heart of Yorkshire’s buzzing horseracing scene is the Middleham Racing Centre where true enthusiasts can meet horses, trainers and stable staff and see the 15 training yards in and around the town. The centre has been home to racehorses in training for more than 200 years including more than 400 winners from the last 38 years. Fans of the sport can benefit from the events of Middleham Open Day which takes place in support of the Racing Welfare Charity and includes activities on the Low Moor. For a chance to witness firsthand the thriving racing industry of the White Rose County, take your pick from the diverse offerings:
York
The historic York Racecourse has been in operation since 1731 and is considered the Ascot of the north. This flat course is surrounded by world-class facilities in Knavesmire, an excellent location; it’s really no wonder it has been host to an array of prestigious festivals including Royal Ascot in 2005 due to the redevelopment of the iconic course. You’ll also find family-friendly events for a relaxed day out for all ages close to York’s historic city centre.
Ripon
Known as ‘Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse’, Ripon Racecourse is surrounded by the spectacular scenery Yorkshire prides itself on and is close to the market town of Ripon, one of the oldest cities in the country. For more than 300 years this award-winning flat course has hosted prestige events and currently offers 16 meetings from April to September with a giant screen to ensure you don’t miss out of any of the action.
Redcar
Redcar is not just another flat course; it’s Yorkshire’s only coastal town racecourse and has been open since the 1870’s. The racecourse of today is set over 72 scenic acres, located a few miles north of Middlesborough, close to the River Tees, and was introduced to replace the races that formerly took place on the Sands of Coatham.
Thirsk
Thirsk Racecourse is one of the most beautiful in the county and is nestled between the idyllic North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Parks. The compact, flat course was established in 1855 to replace the races, dating back over 400 years, that took place on the nearby Hambleton Hills.
Catterick
There are 27 yearly meetings at Catterick Racecourse where monthly racing is on offer, starting on New Year’s Day, on either the flat or National Hunt racing courses. This unique dual course is in the hamlet of Catterick Bridge, close to Catterick Sunday market and the world’s largest British Army barracks.
Wetherby
Wetherby Racecourse is the only National Hunt Jumps-specific racecourse in Yorkshire with approximately 17 meetings over the course of the season from October to May. These meetings include the thrilling two-day Charlie Hall Meeting with high stakes and rewards. The steeplechase is widely regarded as one of the most important events in the National Hunt Calendar for early-season trials and qualifying for Cheltenham and Grand National Festivals. The well-known Christmas Meeting takes place on Boxing Day and the 27th and a myriad of themed events are held throughout the year with entertainment for all.
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