Guide to UK Horse Racing: 2026 Calendar

Guide to UK Horse Racing: 2026 Calendar

UK’s most famous racecourses, what makes each one unique, and their key events throughout the year.

England’s love affair with horses goes way back. Romans may have brought new breeds and cavalry techniques to British soil, but it wasn’t until the 12th century that racing as a spectator sport truly began to take shape. The first recorded race took place in 1174 at London’s lively St Bartholomew’s Fair, where crowds would gather to cheer on their favourite steeds.

Over the centuries, the sport captured the imagination of royalty and the public alike. Racecourses sprang up across the country, from the grand York Racecourse to the prestigious Ascot Racecourse. Today, the UK has around 60 licensed racecourses. And at the top of the list for sheer longevity is Chester Racecourse, affectionately known as Roodee, which proudly claims the title of the oldest racecourse in the UK still in operation.

With the biggest horse racing events of 2026 approaching, there’s no shortage of thrills to look forward to. From the jumps and pageantry of the Cheltenham Festival in March to the glamour and high-stakes excitement of QIPCO British Champions Day in October, here’s how to keep up with the season.

Key festivals and dates in 2026

Spring Season Highlights:

Summer Flat Season Highlights:

Autumn Season Highlights:

  • QIPCO British Champions Day (Ascot): October 21, 2026, the richest race day in the UK and the grand finale of the flat season. The Champions Stake was crowned the best joint race in the world in 2025.
  • Cheltenham Showcase Meeting: October 23-24, 2026, serves as the traditional “curtain raiser” for the National Hunt season at Cheltenham
  • Cheltenham November Meeting: November 13 -15, 2026, one of the most prestigious fixtures outside of the Festival, headlined by the iconic Paddy Power Gold Cup on “Super Saturday.”

Christmas Season Highlights:

The schedule is busy, and Eventmasters Corporate Hospitality are looking forward to all the action throughout the year.

Racecourses Compared: Which to Visit?

Let’s take a closer look at each in turn, where, as official partners at many of these racecourses, we’re excited to place you right at the heart of the action.

1. Cheltenham Racecourse

The spiritual home of jump racing, famed for the Cheltenham Festival, punishing uphill finish, and unique cross-country challenges. For passionate fans and groups who want to bond over shared emotion, tradition, and the raw intensity of jump racing.

2. Aintree Racecourse

Home of the Grand National, legendary for extreme fences, marathon distances, and unrivalled drama and unpredictability. For thrill-seekers, first-timers, and social groups drawn to spectacle, unpredictability, and moments everyone talks about long after.

3. Newmarket Racecourse

The headquarters of flat racing, renowned for pedigree, speed, and hosting the historic 2,000 Guineas. For connoisseurs, industry insiders, and guests who appreciate heritage, bloodlines, and the quiet tension of elite sport.

4. Chester Racecourse

The world’s oldest racecourse, famous for its tight turns, where positioning and tactics outweigh raw speed. For history lovers and strategic thinkers who enjoy intimate settings where tradition, tactics, and precision take centre stage.

5. Epsom Downs Racecourse

The ultimate thoroughbred test, defined by The Derby and a uniquely demanding, cambered, downhill-and-uphill track. For those who want to witness greatness being tested, drawn to iconic moments, high stakes, and racing history in the making.

6. Ascot Racecourse

The pinnacle of racing pageantry, synonymous with Royal Ascot, ceremony, and elite British sporting tradition. For celebratory occasions, elegant entertaining, and guests seeking ceremony, status, and a truly British social experience.

7. York Racecourse

A fair, flat championship track celebrated for the Ebor Festival and consistently top-class summer racing. For relaxed socialising and visitors who want world-class racing in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about horse racing hospitality in the UK, check out our website or call us on 0121 233 6500, and we’d be happy to help you choose the right event for your needs!

Horse Racing Hospitality – 2026

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