Wincanton
Voted Racecourse of the Year in 2005, Wincanton racecourse is an ideal Boxing Day race venue. A multi-million pound refurbishment has transformed it into one of the West Country’s best racecourses and its countryside setting sets the scene for a Christmas flutter.
First race is at 12:30pm on Boxing Day, perfectly timed for lunch afterwards. The Paddock Pavilion will be serving a gourmet menu – a £55 package includes entry to the premier enclosure, parade ring viewing, lunch, afternoon tea and a private table throughout the day.
For more details contact (tel: 01963 32344).
Kempton Park – The Stan James King George VI Chase
The celebrated Stan James Christmas Festival is making a triumphant return to Kempton Park on 26 -27 December. Desert Orchid, Arkle, Best Mate and Kicking King have all featured in the Stan James King George VI Steeplechase on Boxing Day – undoubtedly the jewel in Kempton’s crown.
Tickets for both days are on sale now, with fantastic discounts and packages available for advanced booking. Tables in the stylishly refurbished Panoramic Bar & Restaurant offer fine views of the course as well as a sumptuous seasonal menu.
For more details (tel: 01372 477747) or email london.hospitality@rht.net
Wolverhampton
Wolverhampton’s first race is due off at 2:35pm on Boxing Day, so there is plenty of time for a decent lunch beforehand. The Ringside restaurant, on the ground floor is offering a three course roast lunch and a gourmet three course menu is being served at The Zongalero, the tiered restaurant on the third floor. Tables include TV monitors and the restaurant boasts panoramic views of the whole racetrack. Executive boxes are also available, all with private balconies looking out over the finishing straight.
As well as nail-biting racing, there will also be entertainment from soul and Motown singer Chester Riggon in the Premier Enclosure and a Madonna Tribute in the Ringside Restaurant.
For more details (tel: 01902 390027).
Towcester
Boxing Day at Towcester Racecourse is one of the busiest race meetings of the year with crowds of 9,000 strong gathering to view the action and enjoy a festive drink.
The grandstand offers panoramic views overlooking one of the most challenging National Hunt courses in the UK. Set on beautiful rolling hills in the Northamptonshire countryside, it’s a popular choice for any fan of the sport of kings. Entrance is only £10 for adults, under 16’s go free
For more details visit: www.towcester-racecourse.co.uk or (tel: 01327 353414).
Huntingdon
High class racing action and plenty of festive fun will be enjoyed at Huntingdon Racecourse on Boxing Day. A line-up of racing and entertainment will guarantee a great day out for both seasoned and first-time race goers. Whilst adults can enjoy a competitive six-race card of excellent jumps action and various trade stands, bars and restaurants, children can enjoy inflatable rides and sweets courtesy of Hugo the Hound, Huntingdon’s very own mascot. A Playstation 2 is also up for grabs in the festive children’s quiz.
Gates open at 10.45am, the first race is at 12.45pm, and the last race is at 3.40pm. All advance bookings for 15 people or more are subject to a 20% discount.
For more details (tel:01480 453373) or book online at www.huntingdon-racecourse.co.uk.
Wetherby
Wetherby’s Boxing Day meet is one of the busiest of the year, with crowds of over 15,000 expected. As Yorkshire’s favourite jump course, a post Christmas race trip has become a ritual with many Yorkshire families.
Skybet is sponsoring the meet for a fifth year – gates will open at 10am and first of six races sets off at 12:50pm. Live music will add to the festive atmosphere.
Demand for tickets has been so great that all the restaurants are fully booked, with only hospitality marquee packages remaining. However the racecourse is providing plenty of mobile food stands and public marquees to cater for the additional punters. Premier badges will sell out in advance so book your tickets online at www.wetherbyracing.co.uk or (tel: 01937 582035).
