A Visitor’s Guide to Newcastle Races
“The Newcastle Racecourse is located in the 328-hectare High Gosforth Park near Newcastle Upon Tyne. With more than 60 events a year, it’s one of the most visited horse racing venues in the U.K. One of the most unique aspects of the Newcastle Racecourse is its artificial, all-weather course for flat racing, in addition to a traditional turf course for National Hunt events.
If you’re planning to attend the Newcastle Races during your trip, here’s all the information you need to make the most of the experience.
### Major races
The Newcastle Racecourse boasts many major races. The 3-day Northumberland Plate Festival falls in June and concludes with the Northumberland Plate Day, one of the most anticipated flat events. There’s also the Gosforth Park Cup and Chipchase Stakes. This event is one of the most profitable 2-mile handicaps in the world.
For steeplechasing, the Eider Chase is the most prestigious event of the year. With a total distance of 4 miles and half a furlong dotted with 25 fences, the Eider Chase acts as a starter race for the Grand National. Both of these races feature some of the biggest names in horse racing.
The course hosts a top-class hurdles race, the Fighting Fifth Hurdle. This Grade 1 event is part of the Triple Crown of Hurdling, which also includes the Champion Hurdle and Christmas Hurdle. Like other trios of races, the Triple Crown of Hurdling is notoriously difficult to achieve.
### Ladies Day
The eagerly awaited Ladies Day is one of the most anticipated events at the Newcastle Racecourse. This summer event follows the Northumberland Plate.
In addition to the fun of betting and experiencing the thrill of the race, Ladies Day has some unique events for the women in attendance. There are prizes for Best Dressed Lady that include flights to a European destination, VIP spa sessions and more. Women are encouraged to wear fancy dress, glamorous hats and lavish accessories.
Following the races, the Newcastle Racecourse offers parties and events, and most of Newcastle turns into a party venue in the evening. You can enjoy nightlife, drinks and dining at many of the local bars, pubs and restaurants.
Ladies Day hospitality packages are available, such as the Grand Buffet Lunch, Private Chalet and Bottomless Prosecco, which include perks like afternoon tea and social events.
### Essential information
Attending a race at the Newcastle Racecourse is a fun experience for all ages. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time:
– Dress code: In the Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure, you can wear casual clothing that’s conservative in nature. In the Premier Enclosure, men must wear shirts with collars and dress trousers or polished denim, and women must dress smartly. Fancy dress is encouraged but not required. Sportswear, trainers, worn denim and other overly casual clothing is not permitted.
– Tickets: Tickets to most events are available in advance or on the day of, priced according to the popularity of the event. The course offers memberships for adults that include attendance to the numerous fixtures, as well as a jump-only membership to attend only steeplechase events. Memberships also include reciprocal fixtures, private bar access, discounted meals, free tickets to the Durham County Cricket Club match and other perks.
The Newcastle Races are among the city’s most prestigious events and a must-attend during your trip. Whether you’re planning a trip for a specific race or you’re just looking for a unique experience, take a look at these Newcastle hotels to prepare for your trip.”
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