Festive Fun At The Races
Ah, Christmas – the season of mulled wine, cosy firesides and if you’re a fan of horse racing, a perfect excuse to hit the track for some festive fun. You might think horse racing goes quiet in the winter, but you’d be wrong
Within a 50-mile radius, you’ve got several fantastic racing venues that really come alive around the holidays. Each track has its own charm, festive traditions and racing events that make for a memorable day out.
Haydock Park: A Christmas Highlight
Haydock Park Racecourse is a must-visit around the festive season. Nestled between Manchester and Liverpool, Haydock is one of the most popular racecourses in the North West, known for its high-quality jumps racing in the winter. One event that attracts a big crowd each year is the ‘Tommy Whittle Chase Day’. Named after one of Haydock’s legendary trainers, this race typically takes place in December and draws in top horses and jockeys.
The atmosphere at Haydock Park during the festive period is electric. Imagine bundling up in your best winter coat, clutching a hot drink (or maybe a mulled wine) and placing a few bets. People are in high spirits, the lights are twinkling and there’s a community feel. Even if you’re not a racing fanatic, you can get swept up in the festive spirit, the excitement and the chance to cheer on the horses as they thunder past. It’s no wonder locals flock here for their annual Christmas race fix. Look out for Christmas Afternoon Jump Racing on 4th December, the Betfred Tommy Whittle Chase Day on 21st December and the Betfred Last Fling Race Meeting on 30th December.
Aintree: A Little Further, but Worth the Trip
When it comes to horse racing, Aintree needs no introduction. Best known for hosting the Grand National, it’s one of the most iconic racecourses in the world. Located just about 40 miles away, Aintree is a must-visit for any horse racing fan and this year will see their first ever Boxing Day event.
The course offers something for everyone. For the serious racing fan, there are competitive handicaps and chases to get stuck into, while for those just there for a good time, the festive atmosphere is unbeatable. And after a Christmas Day spent overindulging on turkey and mince pies, what better way to shake off the cobwebs than a day at the races?
Cartmel: A Quaint Escape with a Racing Twist
Cartmel Racecourse, known for its traditional charm and rural beauty, is a lovely spot about 45 miles north of Preston. Racing here is seasonal, mainly taking place in the summer, but the village itself is worth a Christmas visit if you want to feel immersed in festive spirit. Picture cosy pubs with crackling fireplaces, local food stalls and the scent of freshly baked pies wafting through the streets. The Christmas market at Cartmel is a lovely treat, complete with artisan gifts, local delicacies and the famous sticky toffee pudding.
Catterick: A Racing Gem Up North
Heading 50 miles North East, Catterick Racecourse in North Yorkshire is one of the oldest racing venues in Britain and has been hosting races since the mid-19th century. During December, Catterick runs several National Hunt (jumps) meetings that bring out a crowd of fans and families alike. The most popular event is usually around Boxing Day, making it an ideal outing for those looking to escape the house after a Christmas Day feast.
Catterick has a friendly, casual vibe that appeals to seasoned race-goers and newcomers alike. Picture a chilly winter’s day, scarves and gloves on, watching the horses tackle the jumps. It’s a thrilling experience, especially as the crowd rallies with excitement. Add to this the festive treats on offer – think mince pies and mulled cider – and you’ve got a perfect holiday outing. So, if you’re after a traditional, no-frills day at the races, Catterick Bridge is a real treat with Christmas at Catterick on 17th December and Christmas Jumper Afternoon Race Day on 28th December.
Family-Friendly Festivities
There’s something magical about the Christmas season that seems to heighten the excitement of horse racing. Tracks like Haydock and Aintree are known to offer family-friendly activities, including face-painting for kids, visits from Santa and sometimes even carol singing to get everyone in the holiday spirit. The festive season is also a time when people reconnect, so you often see big groups of friends and families gathering at the track, enjoying the races and catching up.
For many, it’s also about making new memories and keeping up with tradition. Horse racing during the holidays has a strong social side – it’s not just about winning or losing a few pounds on a bet but about being part of an event where everyone’s together, cheering, laughing and enjoying the festive energy.
Make Horse Racing Your New Christmas Tradition
Whether you’re a racing regular or a first-timer, the Christmas races offer something truly special. It’s not just about watching the horses; it’s about enjoying the festive atmosphere, gathering with loved ones and creating memories you’ll cherish long after the season ends. From the thrill of Haydock’s Chase Day to the charm of a Christmas village in Cartmel, there’s something here for everyone. So, why not swap the shopping mall for a day at the races this holiday season?
