Ripon Races

Many racegoers of the 21st century feel that the ‘Sport of Kings’ has lost some of its charm. Not that the charge to the finishing line is any less exciting, just that the racecourses themselves have lost a touch of the old world beauty and class which has so long been a part of the best equestrian sport. Those who find themselves enjoying Ripon Races are among those who can experience the finest racing in a manner which lends itself to the rich heritage of the sport.

Yorkshire is one of the world’s most beautiful areas, and Ripon Races has gone to considerable lengths to incorporate this natural beauty into its buildings and grounds. There is a sense that local heritage and a love of nature’s flora is part of the racecourse.

Rather than condescend to the typical aesthetic of many modern centres for equestrianism, this rare and special place has retained its feeling of intimacy and splendid nature, altogether deserving of its moniker, Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse.

Of course there are certain technological advances which make a welcome difference. And all who find their way to the Garden Racecourse will find that they won’t have to do without these conveniences.

Opposite the main stand, racegoers will find a giant screen which shows the action in fine detail and, for the benefit of all who are interested and have wagered on events other than Ripon Races, the giant screen also displays the action going on at other courses around the country which are taking place on the day of the meeting.

As you might expect from a course which has a history dating back over 3 centuries, there is no small amount of attention paid to the details. Aside from the thrills of the events themselves, great effort has been put into all the peripheral nuances and distractions. Food and drink is a vital part of any daily routine, but when it comes to heritage-tinged racing, there is a special place for good food and superlative fine wines and Champagne, or ales as the case may be.

The are many ways to experience Ripon Races. A popular option for those who want to surround themselves with spectacle of fine horses and riders, yet want to take friends and family along, perhaps with a picnic hamper, is to find the lovely Course Enclosure. The Course Enclosure is in the centre of the track, and there is raised embankment which affords a view of the entire track. Additionally, there is a reduced admission charge for a car with four adults. In all enclosures children under 16 are permitted free.

Those who want to engage the bustle and hustle of authentic racing often opt for a Paddock Enclosure badge. Aside from granting the badge holder access to the all-important parade ring, especially if they like to gander and the horses before laying a bet on them, and granting access to the lovely covered grandstand with views of the big screen, Paddock Enclosure access also means that there are some lovely places to enjoy great food and convivial raceday chatter.

From the crisp battered fresh delights at the Fish ‘n’ Chip Shop to the draught beers of the Jim Joel Bar and the tasty morsels of Fountains Cafe, there is something to punctuate a day exceptional racing.

While there is food, chatter and a great feeling of excitement in every enclosure, those who like the best of everything that this unique and charming Yorkshire racecourse has to offer generally find themselves with a Club Stand pass. On Ladies Day, you’ll find elegant racegoers wearing their most fabulous attire, not to forget a hat or two which somehow seem more at home among the friendly folk of Ripon Races than at most other venues. It is also with Club Stand badges that you’ll be able to enjoy the delicious fine dining of the Club Dining Room, where a full a la carte menu await those who like to enjoy a meal in the grandest traditions of raceday good loving. The Champagne Bar is also worth a visit, especially if you’re a lover of succulent seafood and the crisp bubbly that is something of Club Stand totem.

Naturally, at all enclosures there are betting facilities and all the ardent racegoer needs to engage some of the most anticipated meetings in the country. Regular racegoers will certainly be tempted by the benefits of an annual membership. Not only is it economically sensible, but holders can enjoy perks like exchanging visits with twenty other racecourses around the country and eleven days of free cricket at Yorkshire’s County Cricket grounds.

Corporate hospitality and sponsorship has become an popular way to experience pleasure with business. Racedays can be enjoyed in the heights of luxury and exclusivity in the Rowels Boxes. These are ostensibly lunch rooms, where the racecourse’s typically excellent cuisine can be enjoyed with marvellous wines while all the action happens in great view from the private balconies.

The lunch rooms can accommodate between 25 and 100 guests, offer easy access to tote facilities, and are one of the most distinguished and pleasurable ways to entertain clients, colleagues, friends or family.

For parties of up to 40, The Hornblower Room overlooks the parade ring and course. Events both indoor and outdoor can be easily accommodated on the racecourse, many on racedays, although for obvious reasons events which require considerable use of the outdoor grounds, can only be realized on non-racedays. Marquees can be setup for any number of events, and can be adapted to entertain and accommodate almost any number of people. When it comes to events and hospitality, Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse has the experience and efficiency of the renowned Livius events company to ensure every detail is as you’d hope to find it at a venue which is synonymous with fun, charm and discerning people.

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