The Best Horse Races in the UK

From March to December, a myriad of horse races take place, drawing huge crowds to watch their favourites win or lose. Tickets are sold, bet slips are obtained, excitement is palpable in the air, and the atmosphere is infectious. You’ve probably heard of these excellent races and might be itching to go to one, but which? To help with that, we have a list of some of the best horse races in the UK to go to and have a jolly old time. 

The Ascot Gold Cup

Public Domain, Link

This prestigious race is one of the most popular in the UK and is held every June, drawing in millions of viewers due to the excitement of the event and the thrill of the betting scene which many betting sites offer Ascot tips. The Ascot race track has a long history having been opened in 1711 by none other than Queen Anne. Since then, it has been the site of numerous memorable races, and even today it is still held in high esteem. Even Queen Elizabeth has been in attendance throughout her reign, giving the event even more prestige. Also, it is one of the longest flat races in the UK at over 4,000 meters. 

Cheltenham Gold Cup

By lhourahane profile – Flickr, CC BY 2.0, Link

The Cheltenham Gold Cup is usually held on the final day of the Cheltenham Festival. It is a jump race that features 22 fences which the superstar horses are made to spring over. Its prestige is second to none, and many stars have been born on this stage including legendary horses like Golden Miller, and Kauto star. 

Epsom Derby

Simply known as ‘The Derby’ this incredible race is easily one of the most popular and challenging in the world. The Epsom Downs provide quite a challenge for horses as it features several turns and undulations which must be handled well if there’s any hope for winning. The race is open for colt and fillies aged three years; however, remarkably, no filly has won the race since 1914. 

Grand National

Battleship is the only horse to win both the American Grand National and the English Grand National steeplechase races. By Unknown author – Gooreen collection, Public Domain, Link

This is as colossal a race as they come and the Grand National is rightly regarded as one of the most prestigious races in the world. More so, it is a jump race that everyone wants to be a part of and sports betting sites thrive on and the track itself is almost four miles and four furloughs long with 30 fences for horses to jump over. With such an intense challenge, there are accidents and casualties, and fallen horses aren’t uncommon. However, with a history that can be traced back to 1839, the Grand National is still horse racing at its finest.

King George VI Chase

With slightly less prestige than the Cheltenham Gold Cup, King George VI Chase is still easily one of the most famous race events in the country. The event takes place on the 26th of December (boxing day) every year and is run over three miles with 18 fences. The race gains its name from King George, who was the monarch in power at the time of the event’s inception in 1938. Also, the event is well known for producing some interesting winners including Kauto Star, who achieved five victories in six races.