RacingBetter News
	Monday 25th November 2024

Top Five Horse Racecourses in the UK: Hidden Gems

Many horse racing spectators will know all about Cheltenham, home to the best jumps meeting of the year, as well as Aintree, where the annual Grand National takes place. Yet there are plenty of horse racing tracks that go under the radar, and in this article, we’re going to discuss five that you must add to your bucket list.

Kelso

Kelso in the Scottish Borders hosts both hurdle and steeplechase events throughout the racing calendar, typically between 14 and 16 meetings, concluding with Ladies Day at the end of May.

The most prestigious meeting takes place on the first weekend of March each year when the £120,000 Morebattle Hurdle attracts some of the best hurdlers from across Britain and Ireland. If the winner of the race goes to the Cheltenham Festival at the end of the month and wins, they’ll be paid out an extra £100,000.

Although it’s a stiff course compared to most, this racecourse is one of the more scenic tracks in the UK. It may not host the ‘biggest’ racing in the calendar, but this is still very much a hidden gem compared to the likes of Aintree.

Cartmel

The village of Cartmel in Cumbria is where you’ll find another unique racecourse worth visiting. Be quick to secure your ticket, however, as there are only nine meetings each year, with the vast majority taking place during the summer months.

Cartmel is one of few tracks that hosts summer evening jumps meetings, where those looking to escape the flat meetings can still get their fix with hurdle and chase action.

Make sure to stay for the entertainment afterwards as top musicians perform once the racing has finished. In 2025, Olly Murs is the headline act during the summer meeting, as the course goes above and beyond to make it an event to remember.

Hexham

Hexham is home to one of the more unique horse racing tracks due to its steep incline hill towards the finish. Bettors looking for in-depth horse racing coverage will need to clue themselves up on the particular challenges and conditions a course presents to horses and jockeys prior to taking a punt on who they feel will win.

As the only racecourse in Northumberland, and a dedicated National Hunt course, it arguably rivals all other tracks across the UK for its scenic views from the stands. With breathtaking views and horse racing on show throughout the jumps calendar, Hexham is a must-visit when in the north of England.

Hexham Racecourse’s charm lies in its scenic beauty, unique uphill course and welcoming atmosphere. For those seeking an authentic National Hunt racing experience in a beautiful, rural setting, with affordable tickets all year round, Hexham is well worth visiting.

Plumpton

Plumpton Racecourse is one of the smallest in England, but it certainly doesn’t disappoint. With regular meetings throughout the calendar, especially during the week, this venue is a must for racing fans.

Visitors have a great view of the course as it’s possible to get rather close to the action. With safe standing available right next to the winning post, see how the drama unravels from just a few metres away.

With its stunning rural backdrop, a wide range of food and drink on offer, and competitive racing throughout the jumps season, this is definitely a venue to add to the bucket list.

Sandown

Last but not least, and perhaps more well-known than others on the list, is Sandown. Home to the Tingle Creek Chase, Sandown hosts plenty of Grade 1 racing throughout the calendar year.

Sandown is also one of the few racecourses in the country that hosts both flat and jump racing. With top-tier events for both types of racing, expect to see some of the best jockeys and trainers competing in high-stakes races for high rewards.

Not only does Sandown host the Tingle Creek, but it’s also home to the Eclipse Stakes and the Gold Cup (not to be confused with the Cheltenham Festival Gold Cup).

Some racegoers overlook the venue in order to prioritise a trip to Cheltenham or Aintree. However, with top-class racing throughout the year and some of the best horses on show, you’d be foolish to give it a swerve.

Will you be visiting any of these racecourses?

It’s well worth checking out these ‘hidden gem’ racecourses if you have the chance. Alternatively, you can simply watch the action from the comfort of your own home. Either way, good luck if you’re having a flutter!