York Races 2025: Your Essential Guide

Key Dates and Events

Dante Festival
Wednesday 14th – Friday 16th May

14th May: Tattersalls Musidora Stakes
15th May: Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes
16th May: Boodles Yorkshire Cup

May Spring Meeting
Saturday 31st May

William Hill Bronte Cup

June Meeting
Friday 13th – Saturday 14th June

13th June: Mid Summer Raceday
14th June: 54th Macmillan Charity Raceday

Summer Music Saturday
Saturday 28th June

Olly Murs performing live after racing

John Smith's Cup Meeting
Friday 11th – Saturday 12th July

11th July: William Hill Summer Stakes
12th July: 66th John Smith's Cup

Music Showcase Weekend
Friday 25th – Saturday 26th July

25th July Evening: EBF lyric Stakes and live music
26th July: Sky Bet York Stakes, followed by Ronan Keating performing live

Sky Bet Ebor Festival
Wednesday 20th – Saturday 23rd August

20th August: Juddmonte International
21st August: Pertemps Network Yorkshire Oaks / Ladies Day
22nd August: Coolmore Nunthorpe
23rd August: Sky Bet Ebor

YorkMix Family Sunday
Sunday 7th September

October Finale
Friday 10th – Saturday 11th October

10th October: Finale Friday
11th October: Coral Sprint Trophy

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Ticketing Options and Areas

York Racecourse offers various ticket options, each providing access to distinct areas with unique amenities:

County Stand: The premier enclosure includes access to the Grandstand & Paddock and Course Enclosure facilities. It offers exclusive access to the Moët Pavilion, Roof Terrace, and Champagne Lawns, as well as elevated viewing from the listed Gimcrack Stand and Ebor Stand bars. Dining options include the Gimcrack Restaurant, Ebor Bistro, and Princess Mary Seafood Bar. The dress code requires gentlemen to wear a jacket, collared shirt, and tie, though this is relaxed for the September Sunday.

Grandstand & Paddock: This popular choice provides a great mix of views and facilities, including access to the Parade Ring and a variety of food and drink options. The dress code here is more relaxed than the County Stand.

Clocktower Enclosure: Known for its relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, this area allows picnics (no glass containers) and offers a more casual experience. It's a great choice for families or those looking for a less formal day out. Admission cannot be booked in advance and is available on a first-come, first-served basis on race days.

Hospitality Packages: For those seeking a premium experience, options include private boxes, gourmet dining, and exclusive viewing areas. Prices and packages vary; it's advisable to check the official website for detailed information.

Children under 18 are admitted free with an adult in most areas, though terms and conditions apply, especially on music days.

Book tickets: https://www.yorkracecourse.co.uk/racing-fixtures.html

Buying Tickets on the Day

You can purchase tickets on the day of the event at York Racecourse. However, there are a few things to consider:

• Advance Discounts: Booking tickets in advance is advisable to take advantage of discounts, especially for group bookings in the Grandstand & Paddock and County Stand. Advance booking also ensures entry, particularly on popular race days.
• Busy Periods: Race days in May, August, and Saturdays are traditionally busy. Arriving early is recommended if you plan to purchase tickets on the day to ensure availability and avoid long queues.
• Convenience: While on-the-day ticket purchases are possible, securing your tickets in advance provides peace of mind and may offer better pricing, especially for group bookings.

Detailed Dress Code

When attending the York Races, particularly in the County Stand, the dress code is quite specific and leans towards formal attire:

For Gentlemen in the County Stand:

• Required Attire: Gentlemen (and those identifying as such) are required to wear a jacket, collared shirt, and tie. A cravat may be worn as an alternative to a tie.
• Trousers and Shoes: While there's no formal restriction on wearing jeans and trainers, these are rarely seen in the County Stand. Most gentlemen opt for smart trousers and formal shoes to complete the look.
• Shorts: Short-sleeved shirts and dress shorts are accepted within the dress code. In the event of particularly warm weather, the dress code for gentlemen may be relaxed; it's advisable to check the racecourse's website or social media for updates.

In the Grandstand & Paddock and Clocktower Enclosure:

• Dress Code: There is no formal dress code in these areas. Racegoers often wear shorts and t-shirts, especially in sunny weather. However, many attendees choose to dress up for the occasion.
• Restrictions: The only restrictions are based on taste and decency. This means avoiding inappropriate styles or slogan t-shirts. Bare chests are not acceptable.

Special Note for YorkMix Family Sunday:

• Relaxed Dress Code: For this family-oriented event, the dress code in the County Stand is relaxed. Gentlemen are not required to wear a jacket, collared shirt, and tie on this day.

Find more information about the dress code at York Races on the York Racecourse website

Children and Families

At York Racecourse, families can enjoy:

• Complimentary Entry for Kids: Children under 18 are admitted free with an accompanying adult. However, during music events, specific terms apply. For instance, on music showcase weekends, children aged 5-15 require a special £10 ticket and must be accompanied by an adult (maximum two children per adult). Racegoers aged 16 and 17 need a special £10 ticket for admission but do not need to be accompanied.
• Diverse Entertainment: Exciting races, the Music Showcase Weekend, and Family Sunday cater to all ages.
• Youth Concessions: Special admission rates for 18-22-year-olds, with proof of age required.
• Facilities: Baby changing areas in all enclosures and a parent-toddler room offer comfort.
• Food Options: Various family-friendly dining choices.
• Relaxed Dress Code: Under 16s in the County Stand have no strict dress code, making it a fun opportunity to dress up.

‍Find more information about children and families at York Races on the York Racecourse website

Transportation and Parking

Traveling to York Racecourse is relatively straightforward, thanks to its convenient location and the availability of various transport options:

By Train:

• York Train Station: The racecourse is about 2 miles from York train station.

By Bus:

• Shuttle Buses: On race days, the 197 Shuttle Bus service operates between York Railway Station and the racecourse.
  • From York Station: Buses depart from Stand RJ, opposite the station entrance, between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM (and between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM for evening events).
  • From the Racecourse: Return services to the station commence from Campleshon Road, adjacent to the racecourse entrance, starting at 4:00 PM (and from 8:30 PM to approximately 10:30 PM for evening events).
  • Fares: Return tickets are £4.00, and single tickets are £2.50.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the station and have designated drop-off and pick-up points at the racecourse.

By Car:

• Directions: The racecourse is well-signposted from all major routes. On race days, it's recommended to follow the yellow directional signs, as not all usual routes may be accessible. Please note that satellite navigation systems may not reflect the race day traffic management plan.
• Sat Nav Postcode: YO23 1EX - you can use this postcode for GPS navigation.
• Parking: There is ample free car parking available on all race days. Vehicles can be left overnight at the owner's risk and should be collected by 11:00 AM the following day.

Find more information about transportation and parking at York Races on the York Racecourse website

Opening Times

For Regular Racedays:

• Gates Opening: The gates open from 11:15 AM.
• First Race: Typically, the first race begins between 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM.

For the Sky Bet Ebor Festival:

• Gates Opening: The gates open a bit earlier at 11:00 AM.
• First Race Timing: Similar to regular racedays, with the first race usually starting between 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM.

For Evening Meetings:

• Gates Opening: The gates open at 4:00 PM.
• First Race: The first race is scheduled for 6:00 PM.
• Music Entertainment: On specific evenings, such as the Music Showcase Weekend, live music follows the races, extending entertainment until approximately 10:30 PM.

Find more information about opening times, check your tickets and get the latest information on the York Racecourse website

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Facilities at the Racecourse

• Food and Drink: Picnics are welcome in the Clocktower Enclosure; however, glass containers are prohibited. In the County Stand and Grandstand & Paddock areas, the admission of food and drinks is not permitted around the Parade Ring and on the County Stand Lawn to preserve these areas for racing viewing.
• Wi-Fi: Free network available; search for "YorkRacecourse Wifi".
• Cash Machines: Conveniently located on the ground floor of the Knavesmire and Ebor Stands, in the Gimcrack Stand foyer, near the Frankel Statue, and in the Clocktower Enclosure.
• Disabled Access: Committed to accessibility, York Racecourse offers various facilities. Detailed information is available on their Disability Access page.
• Betting Options: There are over 300 tote betting points across the racecourse. The main betting ring is located in front of the Knavesmire Stand, with an additional ring in the Clocktower Enclosure. A William Hill Betting Shop is also available on-site.
• Seating: While seating is available in all enclosures, it is limited. Racegoers are encouraged to arrive early to secure preferred spots.
• Smoking Policy: In line with public health regulations, smoking is prohibited in enclosed areas. This policy extends to the use of e-cigarettes.

Find more information about facilities at the racecourse on the York Racecourse website

Disabled Access

Facilities include designated parking areas, raised race-viewing platforms, accessible toilets on every floor of major stands, and wheelchair-accessible catering options. For comprehensive information on all the disability access facilities and services available at York Racecourse, you can visit their dedicated webpage on disability access here.

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While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, details about York Races may change. We recommend visiting York Racecourse's official website for the latest information and updates to ensure your visit is as enjoyable as possible.

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