Here's Why Horse Racing Can Be Great Value

Features | 22^nd June 2022

A trip to the races can be one of the best value sporting days out

There are options to suit every pocket with loads of added extras thrown in for free at plenty of meetings during the course of the year. Here’s a look at some of the superb value‐for‐money ways to enjoy a day at the races.

Young and old

There are loads of age‐related concessions for admission prices at most race meetings. Under 18s generally get free entry when accompanied by an adult and there are often discounted rates for young people, including student discounts. These can be for cheaper admission on the day and many racecourses also offer some superb deals for annual membership for younger racing fans.

Older racegoers can also take advantage of cheaper admission prices so it always pays to check the terms of concessions before making your way to the races for a great day out.

Family fun

A trip to the races can be great day out for all the family. Many racecourses host special family fun days where lots of exciting entertainment is laid on for younger generations and their parents. There is no end of activities offered by the different tracks from pony rides, face painting, animal encounters, giant inflatables, trampolines and so much more. Some of the days are themed with Newmarket hosting a Super Hero Raceday on Saturday 6 August when Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman will all be in attendance to make sure everyone has a great time and oversee no end of exciting children’s activities. Much of the entertainment at family fun days comes free with the cost of admission.

Summer Picnics

Many racecourses have designated picnic areas that allow visitors to the races to bring their own tasty treats. The enclosures are often among the cheapest for admission so not only do racegoers save on food and drink but the cost of entrance is often great value as well.

Some courses have benches, others allow rugs and chairs to be brought into the enclosures along with, of course, picnic hampers. It’s best to check with individual racecourses to find out their policy on picnics but one thing is universal with all tracks that allow food and drink to brought into the special enclosures – it’s a great way to enjoy a day at the races.

All that’s needed is some nice sunny weather.

Live Music

Some of the most popular race days in recent years have been when the action on the track is combined with live music.

Some of the biggest acts have played at courses after racing and they can often be incredible value. Admission prices are even cheaper than normal concert ticket prices at many of the events with a great day of racing on top.

This summer there are meetings with live music featuring top bands like Simply Red, Kaiser Chiefs, The Sugarbabes and Madness as well as hit artists like Paloma Faith, Nile Rodgers, Craig David and Olly Murs.

Some tracks also have popular tribute acts performing after racing so there really is something for everyone at superb value‐for‐money prices.

Book Early

It often pays to book tickets for race meetings in advance to take advantage of generous offers.

Some courses offer as much as 40 per cent discounts on ticket prices if you book tickets before the day of the racing. There is also often discounts for group bookings making a day at the races even ore affordable, with some tracks offering special rates for NHS workers and members of the armed services.

It is worth checking racecourse websites to find out what offers are available on the days you are intending to go racing.