Set beside the historic Roman walls and just a short walk from the city centre, Chester Racecourse is one of the most distinctive and atmospheric racecourses in Britain. Often referred to as the “Roodee”, the course proudly claims to be the oldest operational racecourse in the world, with racing believed to date back to the early 16th century. Its compact, tight left-handed circuit makes for exciting racing, with sharp bends and short straights often rewarding quick-thinking jockeys and horses that can handle the twists and turns without losing momentum.
Chester is especially famous for its stylish May Festival, where racing and socialising go hand in hand. The venue has built a reputation for combining quality Flat racing with a lively, almost festival-like atmosphere – think champagne bars, summer outfits and plenty of people enjoying a day out as much as the racing itself. Some of the course’s best-known races include:
- The Chester Cup
- The Cheshire Oaks
- The Dee Stakes
- The Ormonde Stakes
- The Chester Vase
While Flat racing is the main attraction during the spring and summer season, Chester Racecourse is active throughout the year as a major events venue. It regularly hosts concerts, food festivals, comedy nights, Christmas parties, weddings and corporate events. The infield and hospitality areas are also used for exhibitions and private functions, making the venue far more than just a place to watch horses thunder past at close quarters.
One last thing to note – watching the racing from the city walls right above the home straight is free, even during the May Festival.
Upcoming Events at Chester
Chester: Ibiza Classic Evening with Ibiza in Symphony
Chester Racecourse brings the spirit of Ibiza to the Roodee on July 10th with its Ibiza Classics Evening in partnership with Excell Supply. After an evening of competitive racing, racegoers can enjoy a live performance from Ibiza in Symphony, an electrifying 10-piece orchestra performing dance classics inspired by the White Isle. Gates open at 3:50pm, with racing from 5:50pm and the final race scheduled for 8:50pm.
Chester: Music Weekend with the Bootleg Beatles
Chester’s Music Weekend continues on July 11th with an afternoon of racing followed by a live performance from the Bootleg Beatles. Widely regarded as one of the leading Beatles tribute acts, the group recreates the music, look and atmosphere of the legendary band with authentic costumes and note-perfect harmonies. Gates open at 12:10pm, with racing from 2:10pm and the final race scheduled for 5:35pm before the entertainment begins.