Sedgefield Races

County Durham is one of the United Kingdom’s most culturally and historically rich areas, particularly loved for the eponymous city with its magnificent cathedral. The country’s equestrian sport fans will also know that the county owns one of the best racecourses. Sedgefield Races are something special indeed, and are part of the heritage of the area as much as any of its illustrious listed buildings.

Sedgefield Races can be traced back to early part of the 18th century, with the first recorded events beginning in 1846. The racecourse itself abounds with anecdotes colourful ladies, gents and lords of the manor, and it has long been prized by racegoers and locals alike for the fact that the turf seems to be rather impervious to the winter’s best efforts to make it muddy and unusable. A factor which has influenced the racecourse greatly and, today, fans of jump racing can enjoy 19 fixtures spread out over 11 months of the year.

Whether you’re an old hand at judging the horses as they trot around the parade ring, know when it’s time to place your bets with the tote rather than the bookmaker, or are entirely new to the ‘Sport of Kings’ and just want to engage this great equestrian sport as it ought to be engaged, then Sedgefield Races will welcome you with open arms.

It’s no accident that Durham’s favourite centre for equestrianism has also been term ‘The Friendly Racecourse’. Of course, before you find yourself laying wagers and waving winning tickets for the attention of a busy bookmaker, you’ll have to find your way through the turnstiles. Fortunately for those who live in Durham or have easy access to it, it’s only a few minutes away from the city centre. Most familiar with the racecourse will have pre-ordered their tickets, if they aren’t already among the many who hold annual memberships.

Although you can buy either a Course Enclosure or Grandstand Enclosure ticket on the day, there are a few good reasons to book in advance. Various types of raceday packages are available, which range from those for corporate hospitality to restaurant packages.

If you want little more than to enjoy a family day out with a close-up view of some of the finest jump racing in the United Kingdom, then a Course Enclosure pass will probably be ideal. You’ll have great views of the track from the centre, as well as a dedicated spot where the family can enjoy a picnic.

The Course Enclosure also offers a bar and facilities for those who want to lay a bet or six. On certain days, there is also a kids’ play area and a range of entertainments to keep the younger racegoers active and satisfied while mom and dad grasp their betting slips and watch the heart-pounding charge to the winning post. There are few better ways to spend a family day out than watching the action from the Course Enclosure.

Those who have a different idea of fun and excitement will probably opt for a Grandstand Enclosure badge. Those who take a table at the lovely Hoops Bistro, for the all-inclusive price of £51.50, will find that the Grandstand Badge is included, affording the holder access to all the public areas of the racecourse; so you can enjoy great views from the grandstand, trips to the parade ring and winners’ enclosure. The price also includes a table for the duration of the day’s or evening’s racing and a delicious three-course meal. It’s little surprise that, with its great views of the action, tables at Hoops Bistro are popular, so if you want to enjoy your day in style and comfort, booking in advance is the only way to go.

Corporate hospitality is a speciality of the dedicated team at Sedgefield Races. The racecourse boasts 13 excellent and exclusive private suites, all with superb views of the course’s winning post from private balconies.

The suites are available for hire on a annual or daily basis, and can be hired for groups from 15 to a 100.

All suites have CCTV, for close-up views of the events, as well as quick and easy access to dedicated Tote Facilities. Hospitality packages for you and your guests include all the necessities and luxuries of an exclusive experience of Sedgefield Races; including, Grandstand Badges, a racecard, bar options and choice of either silver service or buffet meals of the most tempting variety.

Raceday hospitality isn’t limited to the private suites, for larger groups, there is a marquee option which can be setup to meet individual requirements. Naturally, all catering, betting facilities and badges are also part of the marquee hospitality package.

This special Durham County racecourse doesn’t shut down when there is no fixture. There is always something on the go from Car Boot Sales, Christmas Parties and the Miss Durham contest to the Weddings and Conferences which aim to make use of the beautiful grounds, experienced team and exceptional, versatile facilities.

The racecourse is easily accessible and is a very popular choice for discerning companies to hold anything from focused conferences to exhibitions and product launches. Packages are available for varying needs and wants. Whether it’s a small meeting or a large seminar which requires everything to run seamlessly, the team will be on hand to ensure your event is organized to the last detail.

On a more romantic note, wedding packages are available to discerning couples who like the idea of having their ceremony in magnificent surrounds, exclusive use of the racecourse and all the great food drink to keep family known and new fed throughout the day until the party starts up.

This website is operated by Websitebrokers Limited and is not affiliated to any one racecourse or group of racecourses.