Uttoxeter Racecourse Race Day Guide: Fixtures & Tips

Nestled in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside, Uttoxeter Racecourse is celebrated as one of the UK’s leading National Hunt jump racing venues. With a calendar spanning world-class sporting fixtures, festive family days, and vibrant live music events, it attracts thousands of racing enthusiasts throughout the year. Whether you are a regular racegoer or a first-time visitor placing your first flutter, planning your day in advance ensures an unforgettable experience.

Situated just under 15 miles away along the accessible A50 and A38 corridors, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge in Burton upon Trent offers the ideal, well-connected base for your racing weekend. Here is your ultimate guide to visiting Uttoxeter Racecourse, covering everything from top fixtures to travel tips.

Key Highlights of Uttoxeter Racecourse

Uttoxeter Racecourse features a left-handed oval track measuring roughly one mile and two furlongs, famous for its undulating terrain and competitive steeplechase and hurdle contests. With around 25 fixtures held throughout the year, the course delivers high-octane National Hunt action in every season.

The racecourse is renowned for its welcoming, friendly atmosphere. Alongside the thrilling trackside spectacle, visitors can take advantage of a variety of trackside food stalls, pop-up bars, betting rings, and live entertainment that bring each raceday alive.

Major Fixtures to Mark on Your Calendar

While every race meeting brings competitive sport, several dates on the Uttoxeter calendar stand out as must-visit fixtures:

• The Midlands Grand National (March): The undisputed jewel in Uttoxeter’s crown. Held on the Saturday immediately following the Cheltenham Festival, this historic four-mile marathon steeplechase is one of the most demanding and prestigious contests in British jump racing.
• Ladies Day (Summer): A showcase of glamour, high fashion, and premier racing. With best-dressed competitions, champagne marquees, and post-racing musical acts, it is a favourite date for groups of friends and couples.
• Beer & Cider Festival Racedays: Staffordshire has deep brewing roots, and Uttoxeter celebrates this with specialty racedays featuring local ales, craft ciders, and live acoustic music alongside an afternoon of jumping.
• Gentlemen’s Day: An afternoon dedicated to style, sporting camaraderie, and top-tier jump cards, drawing crowds from across the Midlands and beyond.

Choosing Your Enclosure

Uttoxeter offers multiple viewing areas designed to cater to different preferences and budgets:

• Premier Enclosure: Offers the premier raceday vantage point with access to the exclusive Premier Stand, elevated views of the winning post, trackside champagne bars, and the Parade Ring where you can inspect the runners before each race.
• Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure: The most popular ticket category. It provides fantastic views of the finishing straight, access to the Parade Ring, the main bookmaker betting rings, and a wide variety of food and drink stalls.
• Centre Course Enclosure: Open on major weekend and feature meetings, this picnic-friendly zone is situated in the centre of the track. It is a fantastic, relaxed option for families wanting an informal afternoon outdoors.

Uttoxeter Racecourse Dress Codes

Knowing what to wear can help ensure smooth entry and plenty of comfort across the course:

• Premier Enclosure: Smart casual is the standard expectation. Many racegoers opt for tailored suits, blazers, smart trousers, and cocktail dresses, especially on feature days like the Midlands Grand National or Ladies Day. Casual sportswear, ripped denim, and trainers are generally discouraged in premier areas.
• Grandstand & Paddock: There is no strict dress code here, though smart casual attire is encouraged. Weather-appropriate dressing is always recommended, as jump racing runs through both crisp winter afternoons and warm summer days.
• Footwear: Keep in mind that a day at the races involves walking between the stands, the betting ring, and the parade ring, so comfortable yet smart footwear is always a wise choice.

Getting to the Track from Burton upon Trent

Three Queens Hotel in Burton upon Trent provides an exceptionally convenient location for racegoers travelling to Uttoxeter. Situated on the A38 corridor and just 1 mile from Burton train station, transport connections are effortless:

• By Car: Driving from Three Queens Hotel to Uttoxeter Racecourse takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes via the A38 and A50. Guests staying at the hotel benefit from free on-site parking, taking the stress out of vehicle storage before and after your trip. Uttoxeter Racecourse also provides large public parking areas upon arrival.
• By Public Transport: Burton upon Trent railway station is just a mile from the hotel, with rail links connecting directly or with a short change towards Uttoxeter station, which sits right next to the racecourse gates. Local taxi services are also readily available for groups heading straight to the track.

Dining Out in Burton upon Trent

After an afternoon cheering home your selections at the track, you will find plenty of dining opportunities waiting for you in Burton upon Trent. The hotel is located just a 5-minute walk from the vibrant town centre, placing you within easy walking distance of a fantastic array of local eateries.

Burton is globally famous as the capital of British brewing, meaning you will find traditional pubs serving classic pub meals alongside independent bistros, international restaurants, steakhouses, and welcoming cafes. Whether you are looking for a celebratory post-raceday dinner or a casual bite, the town centre offers choices to satisfy every taste.

Unwind at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

Following a busy day on the turf, return to comfortable and dependable accommodation at Three Queens Hotel. With 62 rooms available, we cater to solo racegoers, couples, families, and racing groups alike. Explore our rooms to discover our diverse selection, including Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, Quadruple, Mews Apartment, and a four-poster Suite.

Every room is en-suite with a private bathroom, providing complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio, direct dial phone, and in-room tea and coffee making facilities to help you recharge. To keep your race day attire sharp, our team also offers a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service, complemented by daily housekeeping.

With high-speed free WiFi throughout the property, our reception is open to assist you from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, supported by an overnight night porter between 10:00 pm and 8:00 am. Make the most of your trip to Staffordshire and book your stay at Three Queens Hotel today!

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