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Chester Racecourse Roodee

4.4
·4k reviews·, United Kingdom

Experience the thrill of horse racing at the world's oldest operational racecourse, established in 1539. A historic venue with a vibrant atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer Race Days

Vibrant atmosphere, great outfits

CrowdHigh
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Chester Racecourse Roodee

Best Time

Summer Race Days

Vibrant atmosphere, great outfits

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the thrill of horse racing at the world's oldest operational racecourse, established in 1539. A historic venue with a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4
(4k reviews)

"Great fun day out if you dont bet too much ha, good atmosphere, great looking outfits."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tattersalls for Special Occasions

For a special day, Tattersalls offers a premium experience.

💰 Save with Roodee Enclosure

The Roodee enclosure is a budget-friendly option with a great atmosphere.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Roodee Enclosure

The Roodee Enclosure

Silver Ring

The most affordable way to experience the historic racecourse, offering a lively atmosphere and good views of the action.

Reddit
Tattersalls Enclosure

Tattersalls Enclosure

Main Grandstand Area

Offers a more premium experience with better facilities and closer views of the racing. Ideal for those wanting a special day out.

Reddit
Gin Garden

Gin Garden

Near the racecourse

A popular spot for drinks and food with a buzzing atmosphere, offering views of the races on giant screens.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Chester Racecourse uses dynamic pricing, so ticket costs can increase closer to the event. Booking ahead can save money and secure your spot, especially for popular race days. Consider which enclosure best suits your budget and desired experience. Reddit

Understand Enclosure Options

Different enclosures offer varying experiences and price points. The Roodee enclosure is the most affordable, while Tattersalls offers more premium access. Research what's included in each to avoid disappointment and ensure a special day out. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer Race Days
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, great outfits
Crowd
High
When
Oktoberfest Event
Why
Unique theme, fun vibe
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, lower prices
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Amy Murphy LOVED that one 🙌 @Chester Racecourse #horseracing #chester
@at_the_races
40.3K likes • 1.7M views

🎯 Book Tattersalls for Special Occasions

For a special day, Tattersalls offers a premium experience. Reddit

💰 Save with Roodee Enclosure

The Roodee enclosure is a budget-friendly option with a great atmosphere. Reddit

Chester Races Ready👿 Iconic @EM 🏃🏽‍♀️ #races #fyp
@mackensieemilyx
11.2K likes • 1.1M views
Did you know? Here at Chester Racecourse, within the Roodee enclosure, you can still see a piece of original Roman wall.🏛️🐎
chesterraces
72 likes • 3.5K views

📱 Check Dynamic Pricing

Ticket prices vary; book early to potentially save money. Reddit

🚗 Consider Parking Options

Little Roodee car park is recommended and affordable. Reddit

🏇✨ Welcome to Chester Racecourse — where history meets the thrill of the race! Established in 1539, Chester is the world’s oldest racecourse. This spot, once known as The Roodee or ‘Island of the Cross’, is now Chester’s iconic racecourse — where the crowds cheer and the horses race at full speed! 🐎✨ From May to October, Chester comes alive with race season, a time everyone eagerly awaits. The ...
elcchester
70 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tattersalls for Special Occasions

For a special day, Tattersalls offers a premium experience. Reddit

💰 Save with Roodee Enclosure

The Roodee enclosure is a budget-friendly option with a great atmosphere. Reddit

📱 Check Dynamic Pricing

Ticket prices vary; book early to potentially save money. Reddit

🚗 Consider Parking Options

Little Roodee car park is recommended and affordable. Reddit

☕ Bring Your Own Water Bottle

Stay hydrated, especially on warm days. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chester Racecourse offers a historic racing experience with a lively atmosphere, particularly praised for its special events and hospitality. While some visitors find ticket and refreshment prices high due to dynamic pricing, many still enjoy the vibrant social scene and the unique charm of the world's oldest operating racecourse. Reddit

"We had such a lovely time in the gin garden. The service was great. The food was decent and the atmosphere was buzzing. It was too busy to get to the actual racecourse but we did see it in the giant screens. And enjoyed seeing each horse before the races. Great day out."

Caroline Sankey

"Rip-off Chester.
My wife and I visited last Friday, as I needed to tick the course off.
The racing was nothing special, 3 class 4 races and 5 class 5 races. When I checked the ticket prices 2 weeks before the meeting I couldn't believe that they were asking £32 for a Tattersalls ticket and £17 for the Roodee enclosure (silver ring). Although excessive I was going to get the Tatts tickets. However, when I came to book them a few days later(10 days prior to the meeting) the prices had increased to £39 and £20. Apparently they operate dynamic pricing. What a joke!
There was no way I was going to pay £39 each for rubbish racing. I'm not sure I've ever paid that for Group 1 meetings before, other than Royal Ascot and the Cheltenham festival.
We, therefore, bought tickets for the Roodee enclosure (well done Chester, you just lost yourselves £24 - £40 instead of £64).
Once in the course you are then met with your next rip off, £5 for a racecard - why?
Followed by the usual racecourse beer prices plus a bit more as it's Chester, £6.45 to £7.95 for a pint.
If you want a cup of tea it's £3.50.
Looking across to Tatts I couldn't see any extra facilities that would have justified paying an additional £19 per ticket.
This racecourse really does have serious delusions of grandeur. Ascot it is not!
Bearing in mind the view from the road and the fact that there is a pub (The Architect) with a huge garden a few yards away, I would suggest saving your entrance fee and having a beer in the pub.
By the way the photos that I have posted are from a long way along the road on the way to the Little Roodee car park (recommended - £5 for 6 hours). You can get a far better view of the course and big screen just up the road.
I, for one, am certainly glad that I never have to return to this course again."

Tony Wright

"Amazing experience at the White Horse at the weekend (31st May 2025) for a hospitality experience. Summer was our waitress for the day and she was so attentive literally nothing was too much trouble.

She was on it with drinks orders and even topping up our ice and water as it was a warm day. She definitely deserves some recognition as this level of service for her age is normally non existent. She has definitely made us want to visit again.

Food was delicious too, excellent!"

Tracie Owen

What People Like

Buzzing atmosphere
Historic venue
Special events (Oktoberfest)

What People Dislike

High ticket prices
Dynamic pricing
Expensive food/drink

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chester Racecourse is easily accessible by car and public transport. The nearest train station is Chester, which is a short walk or taxi ride away. For drivers, the Little Roodee car park is recommended and offers affordable rates. Reddit

Yes, parking is available. The Little Roodee car park is a popular and cost-effective option. It's advisable to check the racecourse website for specific parking arrangements on race days. Reddit

Absolutely! Chester Racecourse is located very close to the city center, making it a pleasant walk from most hotels and attractions. It's a great way to soak in the city's atmosphere before the races. Reddit

Besides trains, local buses serve the area around Chester Racecourse. Taxis are also readily available from Chester station and around the city. Reddit

The racecourse generally offers good accessibility. It's recommended to contact the racecourse directly in advance to discuss specific needs and arrange any necessary assistance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary significantly based on the enclosure and the specific race day. The Roodee enclosure is the most affordable, while Tattersalls is more premium. Dynamic pricing is in effect, so booking in advance is recommended to potentially secure better rates. Reddit

Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Chester Racecourse website. It's the most reliable source for booking and often offers early bird discounts. Reddit

The Roodee enclosure is the most basic and budget-friendly, offering a lively atmosphere. Tattersalls is a more premium enclosure with better facilities and closer views of the racing. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking in advance is highly recommended due to dynamic pricing and to guarantee entry, especially for popular race meetings. Reddit

Gates typically open a few hours before the first race. Specific timings vary by race day, so it's best to check the official Chester Racecourse website for the schedule of your chosen date. Reddit

🎫 🏇 Onsite Experience

The atmosphere is generally described as buzzing and vibrant, especially on summer race days and during special events like Oktoberfest. It's a place for socialising, enjoying good food and drink, and experiencing the thrill of racing. Reddit

Yes, there are numerous food and drink options available, including pubs, cafes, and hospitality packages. The Gin Garden is a popular spot for refreshments. Reddit

Absolutely. There are on-course bookmakers and tote facilities available for you to place your bets on the races. Reddit

While there isn't a strict formal dress code for all enclosures, many visitors enjoy dressing up, especially for Ladies' Day or summer meetings. Smart casual is generally acceptable, but check the specific enclosure guidelines if you're aiming for a more formal look. Reddit

Definitely! It's a popular destination for groups of friends, offering a fun and social day out with racing, food, and drinks. The Gin Garden is particularly recommended for groups. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Great photo opportunities exist throughout the course. Capture the historic architecture, the vibrant crowds, and of course, the racing action. The areas around the parade ring and the grandstands offer excellent vantage points. Reddit

Generally, personal cameras are allowed. However, professional photography equipment may require special accreditation. It's best to check the racecourse's policy on photography before your visit. Reddit

Yes, you can see the horses in the parade ring before each race, which is a fantastic opportunity for close-up shots. During the races, the track itself provides dynamic photo moments. Reddit

Visitors often share photos of stylish outfits, group celebrations, the racecourse architecture, and exciting racing moments. The vibrant atmosphere is a common theme. Reddit

Capturing the speed and excitement of horse racing can be challenging but rewarding. Using a camera with a fast shutter speed and practicing your panning technique will help. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chester Racecourse can be a fun day out for families, especially on specific family-friendly race days. While not all areas are designed with young children in mind, the general atmosphere can be exciting. Consider visiting during events that are advertised as family-oriented, as these often have additional activities. Reddit

For a more relaxed family experience, look into hospitality packages that might offer dedicated spaces or easier access to amenities. The Roodee enclosure can be a good option for families looking for a more casual and lively environment. It's always a good idea to check the racecourse's schedule for any family-specific events or promotions. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the Roodee enclosure is your best bet at Chester Racecourse. It offers a vibrant atmosphere at a lower price point compared to Tattersalls. Reddit

To further save money, consider packing your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks if permitted (check the racecourse's policy). Alternatively, explore food options outside the racecourse grounds before or after your visit. Parking at the Little Roodee car park is also a more affordable option. Reddit

🥂 Groups of Friends

Chester Racecourse is a fantastic destination for groups of friends looking for a lively and social day out. The Gin Garden is frequently recommended for its buzzing atmosphere and good selection of drinks, making it a prime spot for groups to gather. Reddit

Consider booking tickets for the Tattersalls enclosure if your group wants a more premium experience, or opt for the Roodee for a more relaxed and cost-effective celebration. Many groups enjoy dressing up, adding to the festive feel of the day. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: Chester Racecourse's Legacy

Established in 1539, Chester Racecourse holds the prestigious title of the world's oldest racecourse still in operation. This rich history permeates the atmosphere, offering a unique blend of tradition and modern racing excitement. The course's longevity is a testament to its enduring appeal and its significant place in British sporting heritage. Visitors can feel the echoes of centuries of racing as they walk the grounds. Reddit

This historical significance means that Chester Racecourse isn't just a venue for racing; it's a living piece of history. The architecture and layout often reflect different eras, providing a fascinating backdrop for a day out. For those interested in the heritage of sport, Chester offers an unparalleled experience, connecting the present-day thrill of the races with its storied past. Reddit

Navigating the Enclosures: Your Chester Racecourse Experience

Chester Racecourse offers distinct enclosure experiences, catering to various preferences and budgets. The Roodee Enclosure is the most accessible and budget-friendly option, often buzzing with a lively and social atmosphere. It's a great choice for those who want to soak in the general race day vibe without a significant financial outlay. Reddit

For a more elevated experience, the Tattersalls Enclosure provides enhanced facilities and often closer views of the racing action. This is a popular choice for those looking to make their day at the races a bit more special, perhaps for a celebration or a more refined outing. Beyond these, hospitality packages and specific areas like the Gin Garden offer curated experiences with food, drinks, and entertainment, often featuring large screens for viewing the races. Reddit

When choosing your enclosure, consider what aspects of the race day are most important to you. Are you looking for the most economical way to attend, a premium viewing experience, or a dedicated social hub? Researching the specific amenities and atmosphere of each enclosure on the Chester Racecourse website will help you make the best choice for your visit. Reddit

The 'Chester Rip-Off' Debate: Value for Money

Some visitors have expressed concerns about the perceived value for money at Chester Racecourse, with comments highlighting dynamic pricing for tickets and high prices for food and drink. For instance, ticket prices can increase significantly as the event approaches, and a pint can cost upwards of £6.45. Reddit

This has led some to suggest that the course has 'delusions of grandeur' and that alternative venues might offer better value. However, others find the atmosphere and overall experience justify the cost, particularly for special occasions or when enjoying hospitality packages. The Oktoberfest event, for example, was described as 'loads of fun' with a better vibe than Ascot. Reddit

It's important for potential visitors to be aware of these differing perspectives. Researching ticket prices in advance, considering the Roodee enclosure for a more budget-conscious experience, and factoring in the cost of refreshments can help manage expectations and ensure a positive visit. Reddit

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