Uttoxeter Racecourse Race Day Guide & Visitor Tips

Nestled in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside, Uttoxeter Racecourse is one of the premier National Hunt jump racing venues in the UK. Whether you are an experienced racing enthusiast or planning your first day at the races, Uttoxeter offers an electric atmosphere, fantastic viewing spots, and high-quality sporting action across all seasons. Located less than 30 minutes away along the A50 corridor, Burton upon Trent provides an ideal base for racegoers who want convenient transport links and a comfortable place to stay.

The Highlights of the Racing Calendar

Uttoxeter Racecourse hosts roughly 25 fixtures throughout the year, featuring both competitive winter jump racing and sunlit summer meetings. Here are a few of the standout dates on the track’s annual programme:

• The Midlands Grand National: Held every March, this historic handicap chase is the jewel in Uttoxeter’s crown. Spanning four miles and one furlong with 24 fences, it draws top-tier runners, jockeys, and racing fans from across the country.
• Ladies Day: Typically held during the summer, Ladies Day combines thrilling jumps action with high fashion, live music, and best-dressed competitions.
• Themed Race Days and Music Nights: Throughout the spring and summer, you will find family fun days, beer festival meetings, and evening fixtures followed by live music performances on the lawn.
• Autumn and Winter Jump Meetings: If you love genuine National Hunt sport, the cooler months provide deep ground, spirited competition, and a classic racecourse atmosphere.

Enclosures and Choosing Your Ticket

Uttoxeter Racecourse generally offers tickets across different enclosures depending on the fixture and how close you want to get to the parade ring and winning post:

• Premier Enclosure: This enclosure grants the most comprehensive access, allowing you into prime viewing stands overlooking the final straight and winning post, as well as access to the parade ring, pre-parade ring, and premier viewing areas.
• Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure: A fantastic choice offering excellent views of the racecourse, entry to the parade ring to view the horses before each race, and a buzzing outdoor atmosphere.
• Centre Course: Often opened for large festival days such as the Midlands Grand National and family fixtures. It sits in the middle of the track and offers a lively, picnic-style setting that is popular with groups.

Race Day Dress Codes: What to Wear

While Uttoxeter embraces a friendly and accessible ethos, dressing up is part of the tradition for many racegoers:

• Premier Enclosure: Smart casual is standard. Smart jeans and collared shirts are common for gentlemen, while tailored trousers or race-day dresses with fascinators are popular with ladies, especially for major meetings like the Midlands Grand National and Ladies Day. Sportswear and casual trainers are generally discouraged in premier areas.
• Grandstand & Paddock / Centre Course: The dress code is relaxed. Neat casual wear is widely accepted, though many guests still take the opportunity to dress up for the occasion.
• Weather Considerations: National Hunt racing takes place outdoors in all seasons. Layering up with warm coats, sturdy footwear, and waterproofs during autumn and winter meetings will ensure you stay comfortable from the first race to the last.

Getting to the Races from Burton upon Trent

Uttoxeter Racecourse is situated directly next to Uttoxeter train station and is straightforward to reach from Burton upon Trent:

• By Car: The drive takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes via the A50 or A518. Uttoxeter Racecourse provides ample on-site parking for racegoers on event days.
• By Public Transport: Burton train station is located just one mile from the town centre, offering rail and regional bus options to connect you through to Uttoxeter on race days.
• By Taxi: Many groups attending the races arrange local taxis or private minibuses from Burton upon Trent directly to the racecourse entrance, allowing everyone to enjoy the day without driving duties.

Dining and Evening Drinks in Burton upon Trent

After the final race has crossed the line, head back to Burton upon Trent to explore the town’s famous brewing heritage. While you will find pop-up food outlets and mobile vendors inside the racecourse during the event, Burton upon Trent is packed with traditional pubs, craft beer bars, and independent restaurants just a short five-minute walk from the town centre. Whether you fancy an evening meal at an Italian trattoria, an authentic Indian curry, or a quiet pint of local real ale in a historic hostelry, you will find plenty of great dining venues situated throughout the town.

Stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

Make your racing weekend stress-free by basing yourself at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge, situated on Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent. Positioned conveniently along the A38 corridor, the hotel provides free on-site parking, making it easy to leave your car and head out to the races.

With 62 rooms available, you can browse through our range of accommodation options to suit your party size. Choices include Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple rooms, alongside a spacious Mews Apartment and a four-poster Suite. Every room features an en-suite private bathroom, flat-screen television with Freeview and radio, tea and coffee making facilities, a hair dryer, complimentary toiletries, and a direct dial phone.

During your stay, take advantage of free WiFi throughout the property, daily housekeeping, and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service—ideal if you want your race-day suit or dress looking pristine. Our reception desk is open from 8:00 am until 10:00 pm, supported by a night porter between 10:00 pm and 8:00 am to assist guests arriving later in the evening.

Book Your Race Day Trip Today

Fixtures at Uttoxeter Racecourse—particularly the Midlands Grand National and major summer fixtures—fill up fast, and local rooms are in high demand. Book your room online today at Three Queens Hotel to secure your accommodation for the races, or contact our team directly by phone on 01283 523800 or by email at frontdesk@3queenshotel.co.uk.

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