Uttoxeter Racecourse Guide: Visiting from Burton

Uttoxeter Racecourse is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque and atmospheric National Hunt venues in the Midlands. Situated in the charming market town of Uttoxeter, the course hosts top-class horse racing throughout the year, drawing racegoers from across the UK. Whether you are planning a visit for the prestigious Midlands Grand National, a summer afternoon meeting with friends, or an evening of live music following a card of racing, getting your logistics right ensures an effortless experience.

Burton upon Trent serves as an exceptionally convenient base for a race day excursion. Positioned roughly 15 miles south-east of the racecourse, Burton offers direct road routes, convenient regional rail connections, and a bustling town centre packed with independent eateries and historic brewing heritage. Here is your complete guide to planning the ultimate day at the races from Burton.

Top Fixtures at Uttoxeter Racecourse

Uttoxeter hosts around 25 fixtures each year, catering to seasoned racing enthusiasts and casual day-trippers alike. Understanding the racing calendar helps you choose the right fixture for your visit:

• The Midlands Grand National (March): The undisputed highlight of Uttoxeter's racing calendar. Taking place on the Saturday following the Cheltenham Festival, this gruelling four-mile handicap chase tests the finest stayers in steeplechasing and generates an electric atmosphere with packed enclosures.
• Summer Jumping and Ladies Day (July): Uttoxeter is well known for its summer jumps programme. Ladies Day attracts stylish crowds with best-dressed competitions, hospitality packages, and vibrant social energy.
• Live Music Racedays: Throughout the summer, several weekend fixtures combine an afternoon of competitive racing with live performances from renowned artists and tribute bands on the course lawns.
• Autumn and Winter Meetings: The winter season offers true National Hunt purity, providing competitive jump racing on testing ground, ideal for purists looking for top-tier sport in a crisp outdoor setting.

Travelling to the Racecourse from Burton upon Trent

Getting from Burton upon Trent to Uttoxeter is straightforward whether you choose to drive, take a taxi, or travel by public transport:

• By Car: Driving from Burton upon Trent typically takes between 25 and 35 minutes depending on traffic. The most direct route runs via the B5017 through Needwood and Marchington directly into Uttoxeter, or north via the A38 corridor linking onto the A50 westbound towards Stoke-on-Trent. Uttoxeter Racecourse provides ample on-course parking for attendees.
• By Taxi: For groups wishing to enjoy a celebratory drink during the races, private hire taxis between Burton and Uttoxeter are readily available. It is advisable to book your return journey well in advance, as local taxi services in Uttoxeter experience exceptionally high demand when race meetings conclude.
• By Train: Burton upon Trent railway station is located one mile from our doors. Regular regional services connect to Uttoxeter with a quick interchange at Derby, and Uttoxeter train station conveniently borders the racecourse itself, providing a direct, car-free transit route right to the turnstiles.

What to Expect on Race Day

To maximise your day at Uttoxeter, a little preparation goes a long way. Gates generally open two hours before the first race, giving you plenty of time to explore the grounds, pick up a racecard, and view the runners in the parade ring.

The racecourse features different enclosures depending on your ticket type:

• The Premier Enclosure: Provides the finest views of the winning post and parade ring, access to exclusive viewing stands, and dedicated bar and food concessions. A smart-casual dress code is encouraged here (collared shirts and tailored trousers or smart dresses; sportswear is not permitted).
• The Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure: Offers an upbeat atmosphere with close proximity to the betting ring, main stands, and trackside viewing rails. The dress code here is more relaxed, though football shirts and ripped clothing are generally discouraged.
• Centre Course: Often opened during peak summer and feature weekend meetings, this family-focused enclosure allows trackside picnics and a relaxed, open-air setting.

Dining and Evening Drinks in Burton upon Trent

While Uttoxeter provides numerous racecourse food concessions, many visitors prefer to begin or round off their day with quality dining. Because the Three Queens Hotel does not offer on-site food or beverage facilities, guests have the ideal excuse to explore Burton upon Trent's lively culinary scene, located just a short five-minute walk from the hotel.

Burton is internationally renowned as the capital of British brewing, making it a fantastic destination for post-race celebrations. You will find a wide variety of independent pubs, heritage alehouses, and modern restaurants across the town centre. For a morning bite before setting off, local town centre cafes serve cooked breakfasts, coffee, and pastries. In the evening, the town features everything from traditional British pub classics and steakhouses to authentic Indian, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine, ensuring options to suit every palate and budget.

Comfortable Race Day Accommodation at Three Queens Hotel

After an exhilarating afternoon at the track, having a comfortable and reliable base to return to makes all the difference. Located on Bridge Street on the historic A38 corridor, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge offers welcoming, practical accommodation for racing parties, couples, and solo travellers.

We offer 62 guest rooms across a wide variety of configurations to suit your party size, including Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, Quadruple, Mews Apartment, and our four-poster Suite. You can view all layouts and photos on our rooms page.

Every room at Three Queens Hotel features:

• A private en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries
• Tea and coffee making facilities to help you start your morning
• Flat-screen television with Freeview channels and radio
• Hair dryer and direct dial telephone
• Free high-speed WiFi throughout your stay

Guests benefit from free on-site parking, making it simple to leave your car securely before catching a taxi to the course or setting off early. Our reception desk is staffed from 8:00am until 10:00pm, with a night porter on duty from 10:00pm to 8:00am to assist with late arrivals after an evening celebration. We also provide daily housekeeping and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service, ensuring your race day attire remains in pristine condition.

Plan your next racing break today. Check our live availability and book your race day stay directly with Three Queens Hotel for the best rates.

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