All You Need to Know About Bath Racecourse

Nestled right in the heart of Somerset, Bath Racecourse is one of the most popular and picturesque horse racing venues in the United Kingdom. This celebrated racecourse boasts a rich history, stunning views, and an exciting calendar of events, making it a must-visit destination for both seasoned racing enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport.

Plenty to Look Forward to

Every year, the venue hosts around 20 race days, including both flat racing and jump racing events. Unfortunately, the course doesn't host any marquee festivals like the Derby or the Grand National, but it does its utmost to open its doors and cash in on the festivities taking place elsewhere throughout the country. This year, they will be hosting the "Gold Cup Experience" on March 17th, where horse racing fans can watch the Cheltenham Festival with like-minded individuals.

Cheltenham is perhaps without a doubt the biggest horse racing festival on the calendar and the bookies are always doing their utmost to reel in as many customers as possible. This year, for example, Bet365's Cheltenham new customer offer allows new punters to earn £30 in free bets to use throughout the festival, providing the perfect opportunity to back superstar horses such as Constituion Hill in the Champion Hurdle and Galopin Des Champs in the big one, the Gold Cup.

A Rich History

The course was first established in 1811 by the Lansdown family, making it one of the oldest racing venues in the country. Horse racing in the city dates back even further, with records of races being held in the city as early as 1728. Over the centuries, the racecourse has seen many changes, but it has always remained a beloved institution and a key fixture in the UK racing calendar.

In 2016, the venue underwent a £4 million redevelopment, resulting in a new grandstand, the Langridge Stand, a new restaurant, the Royal Crescent, and improved facilities for racegoers.

Amenities and Facilities

In addition to horse racing, it also hosts a variety of other events throughout the year, including music concerts, food festivals, and themed race nights. The venue's versatile facilities and stunning location make it a popular choice for weddings, conferences, and other private functions.

The Royal Crescent Restaurant offers fine dining with views over the course, while the Beckford Bar provides a more casual setting for drinks and snacks.

For those looking for a premium experience, there are private boxes and hospitality suites available. These offer exclusive views of the racecourse, private betting facilities, and gourmet catering.

Visitors can also take advantage of free parking at the racecourse, and there is a regular bus service from the city centre on race days.

Tips for Visiting

If you're planning a visit, it's worth checking the weather forecast as the racecourse's high elevation can make it cooler and windier than in the city centre. It's also a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially on more popular race days such as those that may feature on ITV's award-winning racing coverage.