Southwell Racecourse has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from a specialist all-weather venue into one of the busiest and most versatile racecourses in Britain. Located in rural Nottinghamshire, between Nottingham and Lincoln, it stages racing throughout the year, hosting both Flat and National Hunt racing.
The course is perhaps best known for its all-weather track, which was resurfaced with Tapeta in 2021 after many years of racing on Fibresand. The change has produced fairer, more consistent racing while attracting stronger fields and a broader range of horses. Alongside its all-weather programme, Southwell also stages turf jump racing during the winter months.
Southwell’s racing calendar features a steady stream of competitive handicaps, novice events and valuable conditions races, while themed race days continue to grow in popularity. Its all-weather meetings are particularly important during the colder months, providing opportunities when many turf venues are unable to race due to the weather.
The racecourse has also become an important venue away from the sport itself. Conferences, weddings, exhibitions and business functions are held throughout the year, complemented by modern hospitality facilities and regular community events.
Although it doesn’t have the history or prestige of some of Britain’s Classic racecourses, Southwell has carved out an important niche through reliability, year-round racing and continual investment, making it one of the most significant dual-purpose venues in the British racing calendar.
Upcoming Events at Southwell
Southwell: Summer Fun Raceday ft Local Makers Market
Summer Fun Raceday at Southwell Racecourse includes plenty of fun entertainment for the whole family, including free inflatables and games like a giant Connect 4, giant tumble tower, noughts & crosses, skittles, darts board, limbo, penalty shootout, what a wall and cactus lasso. There will also be a local makers market with artisan products, such as baked goods, handmade jewellery, and more. The gates open at 1pm, the first race is at 2.30pm, and the last race is at 5.30pm.
Southwell: Ladies Day 2026 ft DJ Marvin Humes
DJ Marvin Humes will take the stage after the Ladies Day racing at Southwell Racecourse, transforming the racecourse into the ultimate post-racing party. There will also be a Style Awards with the winner receiving a £500 top cash prize. The gates open at 11am, the first race starts at 2.35pm, and the last race finishes at 5.10pm.
Southwell: Superheroes and Princesses Family Fun Raceday
Southwell will be hosting a Superheroes & Princesses Family Fun Raceday on the August bank holiday Monday with flat racing and plenty of family-friendly entertainment. This includes character appearances with meet & greets, funfair rides & inflatables, a best dressed competition, face painters, meet the animals, a magician and circus workshop, as well as a treasure hunt. The gates open at 12 noon, the first race is at approx 2.07pm, and the last race is at approx 5.35pm.
Southwell: Oktoberfest Racenights
There will be two Oktoberfest race nights at Southwell Racecourse in October, which will take place on Saturday 3 October and Saturday 10 October. Expect steins of beer, Bavarian food, and live oompah music throughout the day. The gates open both days at 2.45pm with the first race starting at 4.45pm and the last race at 8.30pm.
Southwell: Winter Ladies Evening 2026
Southwell is putting on a Winter Ladies Evenings, encouraging racegoers to get dressed up in their finest winter chic to enjoy an evening of winter racing. Be sure to dress warm and keep an eye on the official Southwell website for timings, which will be released nearer the time.
Southwell: Dance Through the Decades Christmas Party Nights
Southwell Racecourse is putting on two Dance Through the Decades Christmas Party Nights in the month of December on Friday the 4th and on Saturday the 12th. There is no racing taking place, however, guests can expect a festive two-course Carvery menu, along with a live band, DJ and disco, featuring top hits across the decades. The event starts at 7pm and ends around 1am.