York Racecourse, often referred to as the Knavesmire, after the area of land on which it was established in 1731, is situated southwest of York city centre. Originally a dual-purpose venue, National Hunt racing ceased in 1885 but, under the auspices of the York Racecourse Committee, the course has continued to flourish right up to the present day. Today, York Racecourse plays host to 16 Flat meetings between April and October.
Course Characteristics
The round course at York is left-handed, galloping oval, two miles in circumference, with a five-furlong home straight. The flatness and width of the racing surface, together with the sweeping turn into the straight, makes York one of the fairest racecourses in the country. The straight course, on which races up to six furlongs are run, shows no appreciable draw bias.
Track Facts
The longest priced winners of the John Smith’s Cup, run over 1 mile 2 furlongs and 88 yards in July, were Space King in 1964 and Achilles in 1999 (both 25/1).
The Juddmonte International Stakes, run over 1 mile 2 furlongs and 88 yards in August, is the most valuable race of the year at York.
The Juddmonte International Stakes was inaugurated as the Benson & Hedges Gold Cup in 1972. That year, Brigadier Gerard was defeated, for the one and only time in his career, by Roberto.
“Royal Ascot at York” replaced Royal Ascot during the redevelopment of the Berkshire track in 2005.
FAQs
York Draw Guide
Middle draws seem to have a very slight edge over 6f, but it is not that significant. On the round course low draws have a slight edge at all distances up to 1m4f, although it seems at its strongest at 1m. This bias over 1m becomes stronger on good to firm ground.
Can you wear jeans to the York race? ›
Most gentlemen would choose to wear smart trousers and formal shoes to complete the look. So whilst there is no formal restriction on wearing jeans and trainers, these are rarely seen in the County Stand.
Can you take your own alcohol to York races? ›
Picnics are welcome in Clocktower Enclosure and alcohol for your own consumption is permitted, please no glass, BBQ's or gazebo's.
Is there a dress code for York races Grandstand? ›
The Grandstand and Paddock has no formal dress code and feel free to dress as you wish and feel comfortable. However, taking a lead from the County Stand dress code, many of our racegoers in this enclosure do like to use a day at the races as an excuse to get glammed up.
What is the smartest bet in horse racing? ›
The safest bet you can make is a SHOW bet on the favorite. While it's the most likely to hit, it delivers a small return. If you want to make more money, you need to bet on the more exotic wagers. They include the EXACTA (top two horses in order), the TRIFECTA (top three in order) or the SUPERFECTA (top four in order).
Which horse numbers win the most? ›
Over the last 23 iterations of the Grand National, 16 individual numbers have claimed victory. In the steeplechase, the numbers between 11 and 29 have proved to be the most successful, supplying 12 winners over this period.
Is it OK to wear black to the races? ›
A Derby Day dress code is strict, so opt for a refined monochrome look with black and white tones. Block colours are suitable for almost every race day dress code, and a bold colour like red will have you standing out from the crowd. Pair our Aerin dress with a statement fascinator for a bright and glamorous ensemble.
Can men go to ladies Day at York? ›
It is still all-inclusive for everyone, and in fact, as women are dressed up in their best clothes, men will also follow suit and wear their classiest outfits. Choosing the look can be difficult, though, as most festivals have a dress code and sometimes a specific theme for the day.
Can you take a bag to York races? ›
Bag policy and left luggage facility
It's better for everyone if you do not bring a bag at all. In the Grandstand & Paddock and County Enclosures we ask that if you do need to bring a bag with you please make sure that it is no larger than you need for a day out.
How much is a bottle of champagne at York Racecourse? ›
All timings are approximate
| Event | time |
|---|
| Champagne of the Meeting - Piper Heidsieck Brut NV £35.50 | All Day |
| Champagne of the Meeting - Laurent Perrier NV £40.00 | All Day |
| New Beginnings - Meet the Racehorse | All Day |
| Funfair | All Day |
4 more rowsThe Tote has a minimum bet of just £2 and accepts cash and card across all courses making it one of the most convenient ways to place a bet on-course.
Can you buy flip flops at York Races? ›
At the York summer festival, one of the shops at the racecourse had the bright idea of selling flip flops given the amount of women who choose to wear high heels and inevitably ruined them walking on the grass during and after a massive downpour.
Is parking free at York races? ›
It is also easily accessible by car from all major transport routes. From the A64 follow the A1036 (Tadcaster Road) north towards York City Centre and then along Knavesmire Road. For those wishing to use satellite navigation, we have an exclusive postcode of YO23 1EX. There is ample free parking on Racecourse Road.
Can you pay on the gate at York races? ›
Can I buy tickets on the day? Yes, but if you want discounts for party bookings in the Grandstand & Paddock and County Stand please book in advance.
Can you wear a maxi dress to the races? ›
Whatever your style, when choosing your winter race-day outfit, you'll want it to be full-length. Jumpsuits are amazing options for layering, whilst maxi dresses keep you covered and classy.
What is the best race meeting at York? ›
The Juddmonte International is York's flagship race and the feature of the opening day of the Welcome to Yorkshire Ebor Festival and has been ranked number one of all thoroughbred horse races across the country.
What is the best draw in horse racing? ›
Conversely, it may benefit from an inside stall if quickly away. A low (inside) draw is often seen as advantageous as it allows a horse to cover less distance during a race. Horses drawn on the inside have a shorter path to the first bend and can save valuable energy by hugging the rail.
What bet pays the most in horse racing? ›
A favorite amongst seasoned bettors, the trifecta serves as the biggest payout in horse racing but is also one of the most difficult to hit. It's similar to the exacta but with a much harder twist. Betting a trifecta means picking the three horses to finish first, second, and third.
What is the best type of bet in horse racing? ›
The five-horse exacta box is actually one of my favorite bets. It allows a nice mix of long shots, favorites and mid-priced horses, and the payoff can be great if the right two get there. If you're looking for the biggest payout — the toughest bet to hit — then the trifecta or trifecta box might be your cup of tea.
