Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or enjoy the idea of ‘Ladies Day’ at the races, a day out at York Racecourse offers something for everyone. If it’s your first time going to the races, it can feel a little overwhelming. Our in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about York Racecourse, from the dress code for York races to our recommendations on the best York bed and breakfast options.
History Of York Racecourse
York is home to one of the premier tracks in Europe with a fascinating history that dates back to the Roman and Viking eras. Historical documents can trace horse racing in York all the way back to Emperor Severus in Roman times. However, horse racing as we know it today in York truly began in 1730, when it moved to Knavesmire, where the course remains today.
The York Racecourse Committee was founded in 1842 to manage York races and the race course has continued to evolve with time, winning multiple awards as the ‘Northern Racecourse of the Year’. It hosted the Royal Ascot at York in 2005 and The Ladbrokes St Leger in 2006. The Ebor Festival in August is now the flagship event at York Racecourse, held over four days.
Where To Stay For York Races
York Racecourse is within a mile of York city centre with York train station just 2 miles away. You’ll find shuttle buses and taxis available outside the station. While there are plenty of chain hotels available throughout the city, a York bed and breakfast will give you the authentic British experience.
Many of the York bed and breakfast options are offered by beautifully historic houses that give a unique experience which blends perfectly with your race course day. Here are a few of our favourites:
Arnot House Bed And Breakfast: Adult-only with a minimum two-night stay and three spacious guest rooms. Don’t forget to say ‘hello’ to Tabitha the cat.
The Fat Badger: Offers 12 four-star AA-rated en-suite bedrooms and is close to York Minister with a charming parlour-style restaurant.
The Impossible Motel: Perhaps the chicest York bed and breakfast option, this “motel” puts you at the heart of the action with 13 rooms and the city’s only rooftop private jacuzzi. It’s a luxury experience that’s the perfect alternative to a hotel.
Where To Park For York Racecourse
York Racecourse offers free car parking on racedays. It’s worth noting that cars can be left in the car park overnight but must be collected by 11 am the following day. It’s a great option if you’re planning to stay at a York bed and breakfast and take an Uber or taxi to your accommodation after a few glasses of bubbles.
Useful Information For York Races
Whether you’re a first-time racegoer or have been to the York Racecourse before, it’s a good idea to freshen up on some FAQs about York races.
When Should I Arrive At York Racecourse?
Gates open from 11:15 am on racedays and 11 am during the Sky Bet Ebor Festival. The first race of the day will usually take place between 1:30 pm and 2 pm. If it’s an evening race with a 5:30 pm time slot for its first race, the gates will open at 4 pm.
Can I Bring My Own Food And Drink To York Races?
You can bring your own food and drink, or a larger picnic, to the Clocktower Enclosure. However, no glass is permitted. Food and drink are available in all the enclosures on raceday.
When Will I Receive My Ticket For The York Races?
Tickets and badges are typically sent out two to three weeks before raceday. If you order your raceday ticket within five days of the meeting, you can collect your tickets from the dedicated ticket collection window at the racecourse.
Can I Buy York Race Tickets On The Day?
Same-day tickets are available to buy for York races. However, party bookings will only receive a discount when booked in advance. May and August are the busiest months for York Racecourse, as well as Saturday races, so arrive early for the best availability.
Dress Code For York Races
The dress code for York races isn’t as formal as other racecourses, such as Ascot. We recommend using the York Racecourse website for full information on the dress code. As a snapshot, the dress code will vary depending on the type of ticket you have with the general dress code varying from smart casual to formal dress code.
Here’s a break-down of the dress code for York races by the three ticket types:
The County Stand
If you have a ticket to The County Stand, you’ll need to adhere to a formal dress code. It’s the premier enclosure at York Racecourse with men expected to wear a collared shirt, jacket, and tie. Men can also wear dress shorts, bow ties, cravats, and short-sleeved shirts. While there’s no specific dress code for women, it’s traditional to wear clothing similar to wedding guest attire. Many women will choose to wear a fascinator or an oversized headband as a more wearable alternative.
The Grandstand And Paddock
There’s no specific dress code for the Grandstand and Paddock at York races but most guests will use the occasion to get dressed up. While it’s not as formal as wedding guest attire, you’ll want to wear something similar to what you might wear for a nice dinner with friends or family.
The Clocktower Enclosure
The Clocktower is the relaxed area within York Racecourse with most guests choosing a laidback, smart casual dress code. Many will bring along a picnic and set themselves up near one of the big screens to watch the races. If you’re in this enclosure, you’ll want to choose a practical dress code for York races. Sensible shoes are a must, and most racegoers will wear jeans or a casual dress. Unlike the other areas, this enclosure is entirely outside, so you’ll want to plan for all weather conditions.
You never know what the British weather might bring, so it’s a sensible idea to bring along a Smart Waterproof Coat such as a waterproof trench coat women’s with hood. Choose a streamlined style in a neutral colour that you can wear over your race day look.
A Waterproof Trench Coat is an elevated choice that meets the dress code for York races and will keep you dry until the sun returns. It’s a must-have if you’re sitting in the Clocktower Enclosure and will seamlessly slip over your formal attire if you’re in the County Stand, Grandstand, or Paddock.
If you’re in need of a coat, consider opting for a womens waterproof mac coat, a city waterproof jacket, or a Protected Species Waterproof Jacket to ensure you’re covered in case of rain.
Heading to York for the first time? Check out our ‘York in a Day’ travel guide for ideas on how to make the most out of your time in York.
York Races: What To Wear And Where To Stay
Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or enjoy the idea of ‘Ladies Day’ at the races, a day out at York Racecourse offers something for everyone. If it’s your first time going to the races, it can feel a little overwhelming. Our in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about York Racecourse, from the dress code for York races to our recommendations on the best York bed and breakfast options.
History Of York Racecourse
York is home to one of the premier tracks in Europe with a fascinating history that dates back to the Roman and Viking eras. Historical documents can trace horse racing in York all the way back to Emperor Severus in Roman times. However, horse racing as we know it today in York truly began in 1730, when it moved to Knavesmire, where the course remains today.
The York Racecourse Committee was founded in 1842 to manage York races and the race course has continued to evolve with time, winning multiple awards as the ‘Northern Racecourse of the Year’. It hosted the Royal Ascot at York in 2005 and The Ladbrokes St Leger in 2006. The Ebor Festival in August is now the flagship event at York Racecourse, held over four days.
Where To Stay For York Races
York Racecourse is within a mile of York city centre with York train station just 2 miles away. You’ll find shuttle buses and taxis available outside the station. While there are plenty of chain hotels available throughout the city, a York bed and breakfast will give you the authentic British experience.
Many of the York bed and breakfast options are offered by beautifully historic houses that give a unique experience which blends perfectly with your race course day. Here are a few of our favourites:
Where To Park For York Racecourse
York Racecourse offers free car parking on racedays. It’s worth noting that cars can be left in the car park overnight but must be collected by 11 am the following day. It’s a great option if you’re planning to stay at a York bed and breakfast and take an Uber or taxi to your accommodation after a few glasses of bubbles.
Useful Information For York Races
Whether you’re a first-time racegoer or have been to the York Racecourse before, it’s a good idea to freshen up on some FAQs about York races.
When Should I Arrive At York Racecourse?
Gates open from 11:15 am on racedays and 11 am during the Sky Bet Ebor Festival. The first race of the day will usually take place between 1:30 pm and 2 pm. If it’s an evening race with a 5:30 pm time slot for its first race, the gates will open at 4 pm.
Can I Bring My Own Food And Drink To York Races?
You can bring your own food and drink, or a larger picnic, to the Clocktower Enclosure. However, no glass is permitted. Food and drink are available in all the enclosures on raceday.
When Will I Receive My Ticket For The York Races?
Tickets and badges are typically sent out two to three weeks before raceday. If you order your raceday ticket within five days of the meeting, you can collect your tickets from the dedicated ticket collection window at the racecourse.
Can I Buy York Race Tickets On The Day?
Same-day tickets are available to buy for York races. However, party bookings will only receive a discount when booked in advance. May and August are the busiest months for York Racecourse, as well as Saturday races, so arrive early for the best availability.
Dress Code For York Races
The dress code for York races isn’t as formal as other racecourses, such as Ascot. We recommend using the York Racecourse website for full information on the dress code. As a snapshot, the dress code will vary depending on the type of ticket you have with the general dress code varying from smart casual to formal dress code.
Here’s a break-down of the dress code for York races by the three ticket types:
If you have a ticket to The County Stand, you’ll need to adhere to a formal dress code. It’s the premier enclosure at York Racecourse with men expected to wear a collared shirt, jacket, and tie. Men can also wear dress shorts, bow ties, cravats, and short-sleeved shirts. While there’s no specific dress code for women, it’s traditional to wear clothing similar to wedding guest attire. Many women will choose to wear a fascinator or an oversized headband as a more wearable alternative.
There’s no specific dress code for the Grandstand and Paddock at York races but most guests will use the occasion to get dressed up. While it’s not as formal as wedding guest attire, you’ll want to wear something similar to what you might wear for a nice dinner with friends or family.
The Clocktower is the relaxed area within York Racecourse with most guests choosing a laidback, smart casual dress code. Many will bring along a picnic and set themselves up near one of the big screens to watch the races. If you’re in this enclosure, you’ll want to choose a practical dress code for York races. Sensible shoes are a must, and most racegoers will wear jeans or a casual dress. Unlike the other areas, this enclosure is entirely outside, so you’ll want to plan for all weather conditions.
You never know what the British weather might bring, so it’s a sensible idea to bring along a Smart Waterproof Coat such as a waterproof trench coat women’s with hood. Choose a streamlined style in a neutral colour that you can wear over your race day look.
A Waterproof Trench Coat is an elevated choice that meets the dress code for York races and will keep you dry until the sun returns. It’s a must-have if you’re sitting in the Clocktower Enclosure and will seamlessly slip over your formal attire if you’re in the County Stand, Grandstand, or Paddock.
If you’re in need of a coat, consider opting for a womens waterproof mac coat, a city waterproof jacket, or a Protected Species Waterproof Jacket to ensure you’re covered in case of rain.
Heading to York for the first time? Check out our ‘York in a Day’ travel guide for ideas on how to make the most out of your time in York.
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