Summertime at The Racecourse Newbury

If you have never been racing in Newbury – or indeed, if you have never been to any racecourse – there is no finer induction to a day at the races than Weatherbys Super Sprint and Party in the Paddock. This takes place on Saturday 19 July and this year there is a fantastic ‘retro theme’ to the raceday with memorabilia and vintage-style competitions; and once the day’s racing is over, it’s time to party! This year sees the legendary Beach Boys coming to Newbury for an evening of fun, fun, fun (‘till her Daddy takes the T-Bird away??’)! And that’s not all – following the concert there is The White Room After Party with a retro set from popular local radio DJ Tony James of The Breeze.

The first thing to know about going to Newbury Racecourse is that you don’t even need to place a bet if you don’t want to – rest assured there will be no pressure to do so. But if you do fancy a flutter, and have never done it before, there will be plenty of staff on hand to guide you and help you set your limit – even if it is as little as £1.

There are many ways to enjoy the races. Entry to the course on the day gives you the freedom to roam, soak up the atmosphere, admire the horses, enjoy a little retail therapy maybe, and choose from a great selection of food and drink outlets if you want to dine ‘on the hoof’! 

Those who want to push the boat out might like to pre-book a private box with friends or to entertain guests. Or how about a meal in one of the three restaurants at Newbury Racecourse? These are:

• The Hennessy: an award-winning restaurant offering a fine-dining experience, with panoramic views overlooking the racecourse and the winning post. Pre-book to enjoy champagne on arrival, a three-course lunch and afternoon tea.
• The Racegoers Restaurant: this is pre-bookable too, and you can enjoy a delicious three-course meal before the racing starts, watch the races from the covered balconies (with an unbeatable view of the final furlong) or wander outside and be part of the crowd. (And at Party in the Paddock, once the concert starts, you will get a great view of the entertainment from the balconies too!). 
• The Brasserie: more casual dining for brunch, lunch or afternoon tea – terrific value and no need to pre-book.

So what else is on at Newbury Racecourse this summer? The simple answer is – lots! The day before Party in the Paddock, on Friday 18 July there is an afternoon of Summer Racing, with seven flat races to look forward to.  

If you fancy a really great family day out, why not go along on Sunday 3 August to the Craft, Bake and Race Family Day? As well as the racing there are all sorts of entertainments planned, and all in a good cause in support of Daisy’s Dream charity – from craft workshops and pony rides to baking competitions for children and adults, sponsored by Parkway Shopping of Newbury. This promises to be a marvellous day for people of all ages.

Just a week later, on Sunday 10 August, the Dubai International Arabian Raceday takes place – an opportunity not to be missed as entry on this particular day is FREE to all racegoers. Look out for competitions with wonderful prizes throughout the day.

‘Fantastic Friday’ happens on 15 August – a truly brilliant afternoon of flat racing. Why not go along with friends, family, work colleagues …? It will be … well, fantastic!

Saturday 16 August is a chance for the ladies to dress up for this is Betfred Ladies Day with Annie Mac and Pete Tong. Treat yourself to a new outfit and go along for a great day of racing – followed by an amazing night of dancing in the open air, with music brought to you by none other than Radio 1 DJs Annie Mac and Pete Tong.

If you’ve never been to Newbury Racecourse, why not make summer 2014 your first time? For further details of all the above events visit www.racecoursenewbury.co.uk or call 01635 40015.