
Brighton Racecourse
A historic racecourse offering thrilling horse racing with breathtaking views of Brighton and the English Channel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Race meetings in full swing

Brighton Racecourse
Best Time
Race meetings in full swing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic racecourse offering thrilling horse racing with breathtaking views of Brighton and the English Channel.
"Great track for viewing with fantastic food at Silks Restaurant!"

🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking is available, but can get busy. Arrive early for easier access, especially on popular race days.
🍽️ Food & Drink
Food outlets can be limited and service slow. Consider booking a restaurant or bringing snacks.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Sea Views
Grandstand
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Brighton and the English Channel while soaking in the racing atmosphere.

The Challenging Track
The Racecourse
Experience a unique course with a downhill start, tight bends, and a steep uphill finish.

Silks Restaurant Dining
Silks Restaurant
Indulge in a top-tier racecourse dining experience, praised as one of the best by visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to the Track
Race Day Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Avoiding the crowds...
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking is available, but can get busy. Arrive early for easier access, especially on popular race days.
🍽️ Food & Drink
Food outlets can be limited and service slow. Consider booking a restaurant or bringing snacks.
Summer horse racing in Brighton from London?
AMEX Matchday advice
🐶 Pet-Friendly Events
Some events, like crystal shows, are dog-friendly! Check in advance if bringing pets.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the venue. Wear comfy shoes!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking is available, but can get busy. Arrive early for easier access, especially on popular race days.
🍽️ Food & Drink
Food outlets can be limited and service slow. Consider booking a restaurant or bringing snacks.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Events
Some events, like crystal shows, are dog-friendly! Check in advance if bringing pets.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the venue. Wear comfy shoes!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Brighton Racecourse for its stunning sea views and unique, challenging track layout. The Silks Restaurant receives high marks for its excellent food. However, some find drinks expensive and food service can be slow at general outlets.
"Easy access, adequate parking for a midweek event, great viewing, expensive drinks at the bar, really slow service for hot drinks and limited food outlets."
Big Jim G
"Nice location overlooking the sea, staff are friendly and helpful, plenty of parking. The track is short but interesting with a downhill section, followed by quite a tight bend and then uphill to the finishing line - it's steeper than it looks.
Shame the owners and trainers bar doesn't have a view of the track, but food is good, and not too far to walk to the padfock and then to the grandstand."
Andrew Stone
"I recently attended a crystal show at Brighton Racecourse, and it was fantastic! The venue was perfect, with an amazing variety of crystals—from raw stones to polished pieces and stunning jewelry. What made it truly special was that I could bring my black Labrador, Shadow, and he stole the show! Several people said meeting him made their day, and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere extended to him, too.
The exhibitors were incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share their passion, making the whole experience both fun and educational. As a first-timer, I didn’t know what to expect, but I left with beautiful finds, wonderful memories of Shadow making friends, and a new love for crystals. Highly recommend visiting—it's an unforgettable experience!"
Ana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While trains and buses are options, they can be chaotic on race days. Many visitors find them overwhelming. Consider driving if possible, or research local taxi services for a smoother journey.
Yes, there is adequate parking available, especially for midweek events. However, it can get busy on major race days, so arriving early is recommended.
Brighton Racecourse is located just outside the main city center, offering a scenic escape with views over Brighton. Travel time will vary depending on your starting point in the city.
It's possible to walk, but it's a bit of a trek uphill. Most visitors opt for transport. Check local bus routes for options that get you closest to the venue.
Information on shuttle buses can vary. It's best to check the official Brighton Racecourse website or social media closer to your event date for any specific transport arrangements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the event and enclosure. It's recommended to check the official Brighton Racecourse website for current pricing and booking options for specific race meetings or events.
Tickets are often available on the day, but booking in advance is usually recommended, especially for popular race days, to secure your spot and potentially get better prices.
Opening hours are event-specific. Gates typically open a few hours before the first race. Always check the schedule for the specific day you plan to visit.
Yes, if you plan to dine in a restaurant like Silks, advance booking is highly recommended due to its popularity and quality.
Brighton Racecourse usually offers various enclosures with different access levels and amenities. Research these options to choose the experience that best suits your preferences.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The grandstand offers excellent views, and the track itself is considered great for viewing due to its unique layout. Many visitors appreciate the overall visibility of the races.
Yes, Brighton Racecourse can be family-friendly, especially during specific events. Some events are even pet-friendly, like the crystal shows, making it enjoyable for all.
Beyond horse racing, the venue hosts various events, including popular crystal shows, festivals, and other gatherings, offering diverse entertainment options.
Yes, there is plenty of seating available, particularly during festivals and longer events, ensuring comfort for visitors throughout the day.
The track is known for being short but interesting, featuring a downhill section, a tight bend, and a steep uphill finish that presents a unique challenge.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food outlets can be limited, and service for hot drinks can be slow. While there are options, some visitors suggest bringing your own snacks or booking a restaurant for a better experience.
The food at Silks Restaurant is highly praised, with many visitors calling it fantastic and among the best racecourse meals they've experienced.
Yes, drinks at the bar are noted as being expensive by some visitors.
Yes, free water is readily available, which is a helpful amenity, especially during longer events or warmer weather.
Policies on bringing outside food and drinks can vary by event. It's best to check the specific event's guidelines on the Brighton Racecourse website.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views overlooking Brighton and the sea offer stunning photographic opportunities. Capturing the unique track layout during a race is also a popular choice.
Yes, photography of the races is generally permitted from public areas. For close-up shots of horses in the paddock, check specific access rules.
While general photography is usually allowed, professional photography or filming may require accreditation. Always check the venue's policy for specific events.
A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing the action on the track from a distance. For scenic shots, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views.
Absolutely! Events like crystal shows offer unique subjects and a vibrant atmosphere for photography, as seen with attendees bringing their pets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning a family visit, consider checking the racecourse's schedule for family-focused race days or other events that might offer more child-centric activities. Pack snacks and drinks, as food services can be busy, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds. The scenic views also provide a nice backdrop for family photos.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider looking for package deals that might include entry and food or drink vouchers. Alternatively, focus on enjoying the atmosphere and the unique track views, which are free once you're in. Researching the specific event's pricing structure in advance is key to planning a budget-friendly trip.
🍽️ Foodies & Dining Enthusiasts
However, be aware that food and drink services in other areas can be slow and expensive. For a more relaxed and potentially cost-effective approach, booking a table at Silks in advance is advisable. This ensures you get to enjoy a top-quality meal without the potential queues or limited options elsewhere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Race Day Transportation
For those driving, parking is generally adequate, especially for midweek events. However, on major race days, it's wise to factor in extra time for parking and walking to the entrance. The racecourse's location offers lovely views, but it does mean it's not directly in the city center, so plan your route accordingly. Checking the official racecourse website for any specific transport advisories or shuttle services on event days is always a good idea.
The Unique Brighton Racecourse Track
The final stretch is particularly noteworthy: an uphill finish that is steeper than it appears. This challenging incline often separates the contenders from the rest, making for exciting finishes. Spectators often remark on how the track's undulations add an extra layer of drama to the races. Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer, the unique layout provides a compelling spectacle.
Beyond the Races: Diverse Events
These non-racing events showcase the venue's flexibility. From festivals to specialized shows, Brighton Racecourse provides a spacious and accessible location. If you're looking for an activity beyond a typical race day, checking their events calendar can reveal some unique and memorable experiences, such as the crystal show where attendees and their furry companions alike had a fantastic time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit