Uttoxeter Racecourse Guide: A Day Out from Burton

The Thrill of Uttoxeter Racecourse

Set in the rolling green countryside of East Staffordshire, Uttoxeter Racecourse is celebrated as one of the friendliest and most picturesque National Hunt jump tracks in the UK. Whether you are a regular racegoer keen to study the form or someone looking for a fun day out with friends, Uttoxeter delivers an electric sporting atmosphere. With around 25 fixtures held throughout the year, the racecourse hosts everything from prestigious jump meetings to lively themed summer fixtures, family fun days, and live music nights.

For racegoers planning their trip, finding the right base is essential. Situated just under 15 miles away, the historic brewing town of Burton upon Trent provides an ideal springboard. By basing yourself at the Three Queens Hotel & Lodge on Bridge Street, you can enjoy convenient road access, comfortable rooms, and easy exploration of Burton’s town centre before and after the races.

Top Fixtures to Experience at Uttoxeter

Uttoxeter Racecourse boasts an action-packed calendar across the seasons. Depending on when you visit, here are some of the most prominent race meetings to add to your calendar:

• The Midlands Grand National (March): The undisputed jewel in Uttoxeter’s racing crown. Staged just after the Cheltenham Festival, this marathon four-and-a-quarter-mile steeplechase brings premier trainers, top jockeys, and thousands of passionate racing fans to Staffordshire.
• Ladies Day (July): One of the most glamorous dates in the regional social calendar. Racegoers dress to impress for high-stakes style competitions, champagne celebrations, and top-tier summer jump racing.
• Beer and Cider Festivals: Given Uttoxeter’s proximity to Burton upon Trent’s brewing heritage, the racecourse regularly partners with local breweries to offer race days that pair horse racing with regional craft beers.
• Summer Music Nights: Combining exciting evening racing with live performances from major recording artists, these meetings offer a fantastic summer night out.
• Autumn and Winter Jump Fixtures: As the National Hunt season gets into full swing, the midweek and weekend fixtures provide competitive steeplechases and hurdle races ideal for dedicated turf enthusiasts.

Travelling from Burton upon Trent to Uttoxeter Racecourse

One of the primary benefits of staying in Burton upon Trent is the hassle-free journey across to Uttoxeter. You have several convenient travel options:

By Car: The drive typically takes between 25 and 30 minutes. From Three Queens Hotel on Bridge Street, connect to the A511 or head up the A38 corridor to join the A50 westbound. The A50 leads you directly toward Uttoxeter, where the racecourse is clearly signposted. Uttoxeter Racecourse provides on-site parking for attendees.

By Taxi: If your group wants to enjoy a flutter and a drink at the track without worrying about driving, local private-hire taxis from Burton upon Trent are readily available. Booking your return journey in advance is strongly recommended, especially after major fixtures like the Midlands Grand National or Ladies Day.

By Public Transport: Burton railway station is situated just 1 mile from Three Queens Hotel. Train services connect via Derby directly into Uttoxeter station, which is conveniently located right next door to the racecourse turnstiles. Local bus services also connect Burton and Uttoxeter town centres throughout the week.

Race Day Essentials and Dress Codes

To make the most of your race day, it pays to know what to expect once you pass through the gates:

• Enclosures: Uttoxeter features distinct enclosures. The Premier Enclosure offers the best grandstand views, prime parade ring access, and smart hospitality facilities. The Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure offers great trackside viewing, betting rings, and food outlets. The Centre Course enclosure provides a relaxed picnic atmosphere during major summer fixtures.
• Dress Codes: For the Premier Enclosure, smart casual attire is encouraged. While jackets and ties are not strictly mandatory, sportswear, ripped jeans, and fancy dress are not permitted in this area. In the Grandstand and Paddock enclosure, the dress code is relaxed and casual. Always check the weather forecast and pack layers for winter National Hunt fixtures!
• Tickets: Booking your racecourse tickets in advance online is generally cheaper and guarantees entry for sell-out meetings.

Dining in Burton upon Trent

While race days feature multiple trackside concessions, you will likely want to explore local dining options when you return to town. Three Queens Hotel is located just a 5-minute walk from Burton upon Trent’s lively town centre, putting an array of independent pubs, casual bistros, international restaurants, and historic brewing taprooms right on your doorstep. Whether you fancy authentic pub classics, artisan pizza, or a celebratory post-race meal with friends, Burton town centre offers dining choices to satisfy every palate.

Relax at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

After an exhilarating day at the track, return to a calm and comfortable environment. Three Queens Hotel & Lodge offers 62 well-appointed rooms designed to suit solo travelers, couples, racing syndicates, and families alike. Our varied accommodation options include Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple rooms, alongside a spacious Mews Apartment and an elegant four-poster Suite. You can explore all our options and view photos on our rooms page.

Every room at Three Queens Hotel is en-suite with a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio, tea and coffee making facilities, a hair dryer, complimentary toiletries, and a direct dial phone. Guests benefit from free WiFi throughout the property, daily housekeeping, and 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry services. With reception open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm and a dedicated night porter available from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am, our team is always on hand to assist with your arrival and local queries.

Best of all, guests arriving by road can take advantage of our free on-site parking, making your race day excursions to Uttoxeter simple and cost-effective. Check your fixture dates, gather your companions, and book your stay at Three Queens Hotel today for an unforgettable trip to Uttoxeter Racecourse.

Planning a visit? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge.