The Key UK Horse Racing Events

Horse racing is one of the UK’s most historic and thrilling sports, with a packed calendar of iconic events throughout the year. Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan or looking for the perfect hospitality experience, knowing when and where the biggest races take place is essential. From the world-famous Cheltenham Festival to the prestigious Royal Ascot, here’s your guide to the major UK horse racing events.

The Cheltenham Festival

● Type: Jump (National Hunt)
● Distance: Varies across races
● Date: 11 to 14 March 2025
● Location: Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire
● Highlight Race: The Cheltenham Gold Cup

The Cheltenham Festival is the jewel of the National Hunt season, with four days of exhilarating jumps racing. The atmosphere reaches fever pitch on Gold Cup Day, when the best chasers in the sport compete for one of the most prestigious titles in racing. Our VIP experiences to this event make the day even more atmospheric and memorable - see the details here.

The Grand National – Aintree

● Type: Jump (Steeplechase)
● Distance: 4 miles 2½ furlongs
● Date: 3 to 5 April 2025
● Location: Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool
● Highlight Race: The Grand National

Arguably the most famous horse race in the world, The Grand National is known for its dramatic jumps, grueling distance, and legendary winners. Held at Aintree Racecourse, this is the pinnacle of National Hunt racing, drawing millions of viewers globally.

The Epsom Derby Festival

● Type: Flat
● Distance: 1 mile 4 furlongs
● Date: 6 to 7 June 2025
● Location: Epsom Downs Racecourse, Surrey
● Highlight Race: The Derby

The Derby is the crown jewel of British flat racing, attracting top-class horses, jockeys, and trainers. Epsom’s undulating track presents a unique challenge, and the race has been the proving ground for many legendary thoroughbreds.

Royal Ascot

● Type: Flat
● Distance: Varies across races
● Date: 17 to 21 June 2025
● Location: Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire
● Highlight Race: The Gold Cup

Royal Ascot is as much about high fashion and tradition as it is about world-class racing. A favourite of the Royal Family, this five-day event is home to elite flat racing, including the prestigious Gold Cup. The pageantry and exclusivity make this one of the UK’s most glamorous sporting occasions. Discover our VIP hospitality options at this prestigious and bucket-list event here.

Glorious Goodwood

● Type: Flat
● Distance: Varies across races
● Date: 29 July to 2 August 2025
● Location: Goodwood Racecourse, Sussex
● Highlight Race: Sussex Stakes

Known for its stunning setting and relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, Glorious Goodwood is a highlight of the summer flat racing season. The Sussex Stakes is the standout race, often featuring the best milers in the sport.

The St Leger Festival – Doncaster

● Type: Flat
● Distance: 1 mile 6½ furlongs
● Date: 11 to 14 September 2025
● Location: Doncaster Racecourse, South Yorkshire
● Highlight Race: The St Leger Stakes

The St Leger is the oldest of Britain’s five Classic races and the final leg of the Triple Crown. Held at Doncaster, this historic event attracts top three-year-olds aiming to etch their names into the record books.

QIPCO British Champions Day

● Type: Flat
● Distance: Varies across races
● Date: 18 October 2025
● Location: Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire
● Highlight Race: Champion Stakes

This is the grand finale of the British flat racing season, bringing together the best horses from across Europe. The Champion Stakes, often contested by world-class middle-distance horses, is the headline act of this prestigious day.

Race into action

The UK racing calendar offers something for everyone, from thrilling jump racing at Cheltenham and Aintree to the high-fashion spectacle of Royal Ascot. Whether you’re attending as a passionate racing fan or enjoying corporate hospitality, these events provide unforgettable experiences throughout the year. If you’re looking to secure premium hospitality experiences at any of these legendary race meetings, we deliver unparalleled access to some of the UK’s most prestigious sporting events. Take a look at them all here.