One of the nations most enjoyable events is a day out at the races. Whether you adore horses, and have amassed a collection of horse themed books, pictures and even bronze horse sculptures, or you love a bit of a flutter and dream of one day winning a life changing amount, you can’t beat a day out at the races.
If you have not been before, you may be wondering about what to expect from your first visit – here are a few commonly asked questions to help you enjoy your first day at the races…
What should I wear? – It depends on what you are going to be doing when you are there. A racecourse in the UK is rarely a warm place, and the terrain can be difficult, so comfort should be your first thought, especially if you want to get up close to the action. But if you are going to be enjoying a meal or are lucky enough to be in a box, the dress code may be smart, so it is best to check. It is also worth remembering tweed is always popular at the races!
How do I place bets? – At a racecourse you will see a line of bookmakers who will be able to take bets for you – sometimes they have minimum bets, so it is best to check this, and they will also happily explain things to you that you don’t understand, such as forecasts.
How long does it last – It depends on how many races there are and what sort of an event it is, but a day at the races would usually start around 11ish and end around 5ish. Sometimes there are evening meets, which do not go on as long – these are ideal for newcomers to racing.