Under starters orders… Everything you need to know about racedays at Cartmel!
22/05/2019
IT’S the moment we’ve been waiting for. The 2019 racing season at historic Cartmel Racecourse finally gets underway this weekend!
The action kicks off this Saturday (May 25), followed by a second fixture on bank holiday Monday (May 27).
Then, it’s time to get those hats, heels, suits and boots out for Ladies Night on Wednesday (May 29) – our only evening race fixture this year.
Whether you’ve got your tickets or are buying entry on the day, we’ve assembled everything you need to know about racing at Cartmel.
Can I buy a ticket on the day?
Tickets can be bought on the day though we would always recommend purchasing in advance via our website.
We now operate an e-ticket system.
Please click on the day you require for prices.
What’s the difference between course tickets and paddock tickets?
Course tickets get you entry to the part of the course containing the fairground, trade stands and market stalls.
The paddock is located on the opposite side of the finishing straight and contains the Grandstand, parade ring and winners enclosure and marquee village.
What time should I get there?
The gates open from 8am on Saturday and Monday and racegoers are welcome to arrive anytime after that.
Wednesday is our 2019 evening fixture, so gates are open from 11am.
What time is the first race?
There are seven races on of the three race days.
On Saturday the first race gets underway at 2.15pm with the last horses lining up under starters orders at 5.35pm.
On Monday, the first race starts at 2.10pm with the final race at 5.35pm
And on Wednesday, the first race starts at 5pm with the last race at 9pm.
Where can I park?
Parking on the inside of the track costs £7 per car. But arrive early, as this area fills up fast.
Parking on the designated fields adjacent to the course is free.
What alternative transport options are there?
Taxi, train – and helicopter!
Book your taxi as early as possible. The best drop off point is outside of The Pig and Whistle pub in Cartmel or opposite Cartmel Priory School. The course is then a ten minute walk away.
The nearest station is Cark-in-Cartmel. Stagecoach runs a bus from the station to the course.
Helicopters require advanced permission to land. Call us on 015395 36340 to book.
Are you accessible?
We strive to be as accessible as possible.
We have a viewing area in the Grandstand which is accessible via a lift.
Blue badge parking is also available near to the finishing straight. Please call the racecourse office with your vehicle registration and blue badge number on 015395 36340 to book. Spaces cost £6 each.
Please arrive at least one hour before the first race.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on a lead at Cartmel in the paddock and course areas. Restrictions apply on concert day – Friday, June 28.
Food. What’s on offer – and can I bring my own?
We have an array of quality hot food providers on site – fish and chips, burgers, and bacon rolls, as well as the now traditional barbecue packs of meat and potted shrimps from Furness Fish and Game.
However, we know many of our racegoers like to pack a picnic.
Bring a blanket, choose your spot and enjoy a glass of wine or bubbly with some classic finger food.
We are one of the few venues in the country that allows visitors to bring their own alcohol.
What should I wear?
The atmosphere at Cartmel is family friendly and relaxed, so please wear weather appropriate clothing.
Our hospitality areas – Rogan & Co at the Races and the Louis Roederer suite in the Grandstand – require smart attire, and we ask that shirts are worn in all enclosures.
T shirt and shorts are acceptable in hot weather.
Are you on social media?
Yes! Use #Cartmelraces on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to show us what a great day you are having.
