Uttoxeter Racecourse Guide: Fixtures, Tips & Stays

Your Complete Guide to Uttoxeter Racecourse

Set in the rolling Staffordshire countryside, Uttoxeter Racecourse is one of the premier National Hunt jump racing venues in the UK. Renowned for its friendly atmosphere, top-tier turf racing, and scenic backdrop, the course hosts around 25 fixtures each year. Whether you are an experienced racing enthusiast or planning your very first visit to the track, a day at Uttoxeter promises thrilling sport, vibrant celebration, and memorable social moments.

Situated just a short journey from Burton upon Trent, Uttoxeter Racecourse attracts visitors from across the country. Planning ahead ensures you make the most of every race on the card, from arriving smoothly to celebrating your winners in style.

Key Fixtures on the Uttoxeter Racing Calendar

Uttoxeter delivers exciting racing all year round, but several showcase meetings stand out on the National Hunt schedule:

• The Midlands Grand National (March): The undisputed flagship fixture of the year. Held shortly after the Cheltenham Festival, this gruelling four-mile steeplechase tests stamina and jumping ability to the absolute limit, drawing the country's finest stayers and thousands of passionate spectators.
• Ladies Day (Summer): A celebration of high fashion, hospitality, and summer jump racing. Guests dress to impress for the coveted Best Dressed competitions alongside a competitive afternoon card.
• Summer Family Fun Days: Featuring bouncy castles, live entertainment, and thrilling hurdle races, these days offer an accessible introduction to the sport for racegoers of all ages.
• Gentlemen’s Day & Autumn Chases: Combining top-class sporting action with live music and entertainment following the final race of the afternoon.

Choosing Your Enclosure: Premier vs. Grandstand & Paddock

Uttoxeter Racecourse offers two primary enclosures, each offering a distinct race day experience:

• Premier Enclosure: Offers the best vantage points overlooking the winning post and parade ring. Badge holders enjoy access to exclusive bars, trackside viewing lawns, and viewing steps directly adjacent to the finishing straight.
• Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure: The heart of the racecourse action. This enclosure offers close-up views of the parade ring, access to the main betting ring, food concessions, and excellent trackside standing terraces.
• Centre Course Enclosure (Selected Dates): Perfect for casual racegoers and families, allowing you to picnic on the grass within the centre of the track while watching horses thunder past on either side.

Dress Code Advice for Race Day

While Uttoxeter embraces a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, dress codes vary depending on the enclosure chosen:

• Premier Enclosure: Smart casual attire is encouraged. Men frequently opt for collared shirts, tailored trousers, or blazers, while ladies often wear smart dresses or elegant separates. Smart jeans and tailored shorts are generally permitted on warm days, but sportswear, ripped denim, and fancy dress are restricted in this area.
• Grandstand & Paddock: There is no formal dress code, though racegoers often choose smart-casual outfits. Fancy dress is generally allowed, provided it is tasteful and not offensive.
• Weather Preparation: Staffordshire weather can be unpredictable. Given the open nature of the racecourse lawns and paddock viewing areas, flat shoes or wedges are recommended over stilettos, and an umbrella or warm layer is always wise for winter fixtures.

Getting to Uttoxeter Racecourse from Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent serves as an ideal launchpad for attending a fixture at Uttoxeter Racecourse. Located along the A38 corridor, the town offers fast, convenient transport links to the racecourse:

• By Car: The drive takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes (around 15 miles) via the A511 or A50, leading straight to the racecourse entrances off Wood Lane.
• By Train: Burton train station is just one mile from the town centre, offering rail services connecting directly or via Derby to Uttoxeter station, which is conveniently situated right next to the racecourse turnstiles.
• By Taxi: Local taxi companies readily provide transfers to and from the racecourse, making it simple to travel in groups without worrying about designated drivers.

Dining and Evening Entertainment in Burton upon Trent

After the final race has finished, return to Burton upon Trent to continue the celebrations. Globally famous as the capital of British brewing, Burton's town centre is just a short 5-minute stroll from local accommodation and boasts an impressive array of traditional alehouses, contemporary micropubs, and welcoming dining venues.

Explore the town centre to sample historic ales, visit lively wine bars, or choose from a wide variety of restaurants ranging from traditional British bistros and steakhouses to authentic Indian, Italian, and Thai cuisine. The town centre provides all the dining and evening entertainment you need to round off a memorable day at the races.

Stay with Us at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

Make your racing weekend effortless by booking your stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge. Situated at 1 Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent, our 62-room property is conveniently positioned on the A38 corridor and just a short drive from Uttoxeter Racecourse.

We provide a comprehensive selection of comfortable room choices to suit solo visitors, couples, and racing syndicates, including Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, Quadruple, our Mews Apartment, and a four-poster Suite. Every room features a private en-suite bathroom, flat-screen television with Freeview and radio, tea and coffee making facilities, a hair dryer, complimentary toiletries, and a direct dial telephone.

Guests at Three Queens Hotel benefit from:

• Free On-Site Parking: Leave your car securely parked while you travel to the track.
• Free High-Speed WiFi: Stay connected to check form guides and race results.
• Flexible Reception Support: Staffed reception from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, supported by a dedicated night porter between 10:00 pm and 8:00 am.
• 24-Hour Dry Cleaning & Laundry Service: Keep your race day attire looking immaculate throughout your weekend.
• Daily Housekeeping: Ensuring a fresh, clean, and restful environment every day of your visit.

Ready to experience the excitement of Uttoxeter Racecourse? Book your room online today or contact our friendly reception team on 01283 523800 or via email at frontdesk@3queenshotel.co.uk to secure the best rates for your racing break.

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