Uttoxeter Racecourse Race Day Guide: Essential Tips

The Ultimate Guide to a Day at Uttoxeter Racecourse

Set in the rolling Staffordshire countryside, Uttoxeter Racecourse is one of the premier National Hunt jump racing venues in the UK. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, competitive racing calendar, and picturesque setting, it attracts racing enthusiasts, corporate groups, and families year after year. Whether you are attending a marquee weekend fixture or enjoying a sunny afternoon meet, proper planning ensures you make the most of your race day experience.

Key Fixtures and Highlights on the Racing Calendar

Uttoxeter hosts jump racing throughout the year, offering around 25 action-packed fixtures. The undisputed crown jewel of the calendar is the Midlands Grand National, held annually in March. Run over four miles and one furlong, this grueling steeplechase serves as a vital trial for the Aintree Grand National and draws massive crowds from across the country.

Other popular events include the glamorous Ladies Day in July, combining high-stakes fashion with thrilling racing, as well as family fun days, summer music nights, and craft beer festival racedays. Checking the seasonal calendar in advance allows you to secure early-bird admission and choose the event style that suits your group.

Choosing the Right Enclosure

Uttoxeter Racecourse offers multiple enclosures to match your desired experience and budget:

• Premier Enclosure: Offers the best vantage points of the winning post, access to premium outdoor viewing terraces, and entry to exclusive trackside viewing areas. It is the ideal choice for marquee fixtures like the Midlands Grand National.
• Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure: The most popular ticket type, offering excellent views of the racecourse, entry to the parade ring and winners' enclosure, and access to a wide range of external catering stands and outdoor bookmakers.
• Centre Course Enclosure: An open grass area in the middle of the track, often open on peak feature days and family fixtures. It offers a relaxed, picnic-friendly vibe where you can get close to the jumps.

What to Wear: Dress Codes and Style Tips

While Uttoxeter embraces a friendly, accessible atmosphere, dressing for the occasion is part of the fun. In the Premier Enclosure and hospitality areas, smart casual attire is encouraged—collared shirts, jackets, smart jeans, and dresses are standard. High heels can sometimes sink into the turf around the parade ring, so block heels or elegant flats are practical alternatives.

In the Grandstand & Paddock and Centre Course enclosures, the dress code is much more relaxed. However, because National Hunt racing takes place across all seasons, dressing for the British weather is essential. Layers, waterproof outerwear, and sensible footwear will ensure you remain comfortable regardless of whether the weather brings bright sunshine or winter rain.

Getting to Uttoxeter Racecourse from Burton upon Trent

Uttoxeter Racecourse is conveniently situated within easy driving distance of Burton upon Trent. Guests staying in Burton can reach the racecourse in approximately 20 to 25 minutes via the B5017 or the A50 corridor.

For those preferring rail travel, Burton train station (located one mile from our hotel) offers connections via Derby or regional links toward Uttoxeter station, which sits directly adjacent to the racecourse grounds. Local taxi services are also readily available for hassle-free drop-offs and pick-ups on race days.

Dining and Evening Entertainment in Burton upon Trent

After an exhilarating day trackside celebrating winning bets, head back to Burton upon Trent to sample the town's vibrant evening scene. Known globally as the historic brewing capital of the UK, Burton features an exceptional selection of traditional public houses, modern craft ale taprooms, and diverse restaurants serving Indian, Italian, British, and international cuisines.

Because Three Queens Hotel is located just a 5-minute walk from the town centre on Bridge Street, you can effortlessly walk into town to enjoy dinner and drinks before retiring for a restful night.

Where to Stay: Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

Located on the A38 corridor at 1 Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent (DE14 1SY), Three Queens Hotel & Lodge provides the perfect base for your trip to Uttoxeter Racecourse. We offer free on-site parking for all our guests, making it straightforward to leave your car securely before heading out for a day at the races.

Our 62 guest rooms cater to solo racegoers, couples, families, and larger groups. You can explore our full selection of rooms and suites, which include Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, Quadruple, Mews Apartments, and a distinctive four-poster Suite.

Every room is fully en-suite with a private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, a flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio, a direct dial phone, free high-speed WiFi, and in-room tea and coffee making facilities. Daily housekeeping and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service ensure you look and feel your best throughout your stay. Our reception team is available from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, supported by a dedicated night porter from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am for seamless assistance at any hour.

Ready to plan your Uttoxeter racing weekend? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel today or call our reception team on 01283 523800 to secure your room.

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