Uttoxeter Racecourse Race Day Guide | Staffordshire

Whether you are a seasoned racing enthusiast or looking forward to your very first day at the jumps, Uttoxeter Racecourse offers one of the finest sporting atmospheres in Staffordshire. Famous for its friendly ambiance, lush track, and prestigious fixtures like the Midlands Grand National, this historic venue delivers exhilarating National Hunt racing throughout the calendar year.

Located just a short drive from Burton upon Trent, Uttoxeter Racecourse is easily accessible for visitors travelling from across the UK. In this race day guide, we cover everything you need to know before you visit—from enclosure options and dress codes to travel advice and where to unwind after the final race.

Overview of Uttoxeter Racecourse

Uttoxeter Racecourse is set in 110 acres of picturesque Staffordshire countryside. Renowned as a premier National Hunt racing venue, the racecourse stages around 25 fixtures every year. The left-handed oval track features testing fences and an extended home straight that often produces dramatic, nail-biting finishes.

The venue caters to all types of racegoers, from corporate parties and serious punters to families and groups celebrating special occasions. With a calendar spanning mid-winter mud-fests to sun-soaked summer jumping festivals, there is always a fixture on the horizon to look forward to.

Key Fixtures to Add to Your Calendar

While every race meeting at Uttoxeter provides great entertainment, several highlight fixtures draw crowds from far and wide:

• The Midlands Grand National (March): The undisputed jewel in Uttoxeter’s crown. Held on the Saturday following the Cheltenham Festival, this gruelling four-mile-and-two-furlong steeplechase is one of the most demanding endurance tests in British jump racing.
• Ladies Day (Summer): A celebration of style, high fashion, and top-tier jump racing. Expect glamorous outfits, competitions for best-dressed racegoers, and lively post-racing entertainment.
• Beer & Music Race Nights: Combining the excitement of evening racing with live musical performances, these fixtures are ideal for social groups and weekend getaways.
• New Year’s Eve Raceday: A popular tradition for racegoers looking to celebrate the end of the year with competitive racing before heading into town for evening festivities.

Choosing Your Enclosure

Uttoxeter offers multiple enclosure levels depending on how close you wish to be to the track, the parade ring, and the winner's enclosure:

• Premier Enclosure: Offers the best views of the finishing post, access to premium outdoor viewing terraces, the Parade Ring, and the Winners' Enclosure. A smart-casual dress code typically applies here (smart jeans and tailored shorts are often permitted, but sportswear is discouraged).
• Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure: The heart of the racecourse action. This enclosure offers close-up views of the track, bookmakers, food outlets, and the parade ring. The dress code is relaxed, making it a great option for casual groups.
• Centre Course Enclosure (Open on selected fixtures): Perfect for families and relaxed picnics, located right in the centre of the track with views of the fences.

Top Tips for an Unforgettable Race Day

To make the most of your day at the races, keep these essential tips in mind:

• Arrive Early: Gates usually open two hours prior to the first race. Arriving early gives you plenty of time to study the racecard, locate the betting ring, and watch the horses warm up in the pre-parade ring.
• Dress for the Weather: British weather can be unpredictable, particularly during the autumn and winter jumps season. Bring warm layers, waterproofs, or sun protection depending on the forecast.
• Pick Your Viewing Spots: Spend one race near the rail to feel the thunder of the hooves, and head to the stands for another to get a panoramic view of the tactical jumping across the back straight.

Getting to Uttoxeter from Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent serves as an ideal launchpad for attending Uttoxeter Racecourse. Positioned on the A38 corridor, Burton provides direct road and public transport connections across the Midlands.

By car, the racecourse is located approximately 15 miles north-west of Burton via the A511, taking around 25 to 30 minutes. Uttoxeter also has its own railway station adjacent to the racecourse, making train travel from Burton railway station (via Derby or Stoke-on-Trent) a convenient alternative for those preferring public transport.

Dining in Burton upon Trent

After an exciting afternoon of cheering on your favourites, Burton upon Trent offers a wide range of independent pubs, real ale houses, and global restaurants. Famous as the historic brewing capital of the UK, the town centre features historic taverns and welcoming bistros just a 5-minute stroll from local accommodation, providing plenty of options for dinner and evening drinks.

Stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

When planning your racing trip, make Three Queens Hotel your home base. Located at 1 Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent, our hotel features 62 well-appointed rooms designed for a restful night’s sleep after a busy day on your feet.

Guests can take advantage of our free on-site parking, ensuring your vehicle is secure while you enjoy your race day break. We offer free high-speed WiFi throughout the hotel, daily housekeeping, and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service. Our reception is open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, supported by a night porter from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM for seamless check-ins and late arrivals.

We provide a comprehensive selection of room configurations to suit solo visitors, couples, and racing syndicates, including:

• Single and Standard Double Rooms
• Executive Double and Executive Twin Rooms
• Standard Twin Rooms
• Family and Quadruple Rooms
• Self-contained Mews Apartments
• Our signature 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 telephone, and in-room tea and coffee making facilities to help you recharge.

Make your next racing getaway hassle-free. Book your room online today or contact our friendly team directly on 01283 523800 or via email at frontdesk@3queenshotel.co.uk.

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