Chester Racecourse: The World's Oldest Operational Racecourse
Experience the thrill and history at Chester Racecourse, the world's oldest operational racecourse with vibrant racing and year-round events.
Chester Racecourse, also known as The Roodee, is the world's oldest active racecourse, established in 1539. Located in Chester, England, it hosts 15 flat race meetings annually between May and October, alongside year-round events including conferences, weddings, and polo matches. The venue offers a variety of enclosures and experiences, from family-friendly affordable access to premium hospitality. Its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere attract over 300,000 visitors each year.
A brief summary to Chester Racecourse
- The Racecourse, Chester, CH1 2LY, GB
- +441244304600
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance to secure entry and better prices, especially for popular race days and premium enclosures.
- Children aged 17 and under enter free with a full-paying adult but are restricted from adult-only enclosures.
- Utilize accessible viewing platforms and companion passes if you require mobility assistance.
- Explore different enclosures to match your desired experience, from lively family-friendly areas to exclusive hospitality.
- Check the racecourse’s official website for event schedules and special activities like Christmas parties or themed events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Chester Railway Station, approximately 2 km from the racecourse. From there, enjoy a 25-30 minute walk through Chester city centre to reach the venue. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, passing historic streets and landmarks.
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Bus
Take local bus services from Chester city centre to stops near The Racecourse. Bus journeys typically take 10-15 minutes depending on the route. Check local timetables for frequency and accessibility options.
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Car
Drive to Chester Racecourse with on-site parking available for a fee. Parking passes can be purchased in advance online or on race days. Expect moderate traffic on race days and road closures around the venue from 09:00 to 21:00.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services provide a convenient direct route from anywhere in Chester. Travel time varies from 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Drop-off points are available near main entrances.
Chester Racecourse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Chester Racecourse
A Storied Legacy of Racing Excellence
Chester Racecourse holds the distinguished title of the world's oldest racecourse still in operation, with its first recorded race dating back to February 9, 1539. Situated on the historic Roodee, once known as the 'Island of the Cross,' the racecourse has been a centerpiece of British horse racing heritage for nearly five centuries. This enduring legacy is palpable throughout the venue, where centuries of tradition blend seamlessly with the excitement of modern racing.Dynamic Racing and Year-Round Events
The racecourse runs 15 flat racing fixtures each season from May through October, drawing large crowds eager to witness thrilling horse races. Beyond racing, Chester Racecourse operates year-round, hosting a diverse range of events such as conferences, weddings, polo matches, and festive celebrations like Christmas parties and bingo events. This versatility makes it a vibrant hub of activity, catering to a broad audience.Varied Experiences for Every Visitor
Visitors can choose from several enclosures tailored to different preferences and budgets. The Roodee Enclosure offers an affordable, lively atmosphere with close views of the racetrack and family-friendly activities. The County Concourse Enclosure provides a more classic race day experience with access to bars, the paddock, and live entertainment. For those seeking premium hospitality, the Winning Post Enclosure offers exclusive access to multiple areas, live music, private bars, and covered seating, with an 18+ age restriction.Accessibility and Amenities
Chester Racecourse is committed to inclusivity, offering facilities such as wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms, companion passes, blue badge parking, and quiet zones designed for minimal sensory stimulation. On race days, parking is available on-site for a fee, and the venue provides a range of food and drink options, seating areas, and information points to enhance the visitor experience.Atmosphere and Surroundings
Nestled beside the River Dee and close to Chester city centre, the racecourse boasts scenic views and a lively atmosphere, especially during race days when the excitement of the crowd and the thunder of hooves create an unforgettable ambiance. The historic architecture and layout reflect different eras, offering a unique backdrop that enriches the overall experience.Community and Cultural Significance
Chester Racecourse is more than a sporting venue; it is a cultural landmark deeply embedded in the local community and British racing culture. It has received numerous accolades, including the Gold Standard Award by the Racehorse Owners Association and the Large Racecourse of the Year Award, underscoring its status as a leader in the field. The racecourse also hosts special events like the Chester Round the Walls Race, further connecting it to the city's vibrant sporting calendar.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
0.3 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.4 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.5 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Chester Town Hall
0.5 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
0.5 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Chester Cross
0.5 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Bridge Of Sighs
0.6 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Chester War Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Crypt Chambers
0.6 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Eastgate Clock
0.7 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.8 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
0.8 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Wishing Steps
0.9 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Churchill House
1.1 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Overleigh Water Tower
1.2 km
Discover the Overleigh Water Tower, a stunning historical landmark in Chester, offering a blend of rich heritage and scenic beauty for all visitors.
Unmissable attractions to see
Water Tower Gardens
0.3 km
Historic city-centre gardens blending medieval heritage with family-friendly sports and play facilities beside Chester’s iconic Water Tower.
Stanley Palace
0.3 km
Discover Chester’s finest Tudor house, Stanley Palace—a historic, atmospheric venue famed for its stunning Elizabethan architecture and ghostly tales.
The Water Tower
0.3 km
Explore Chester’s medieval Water Tower and tranquil gardens, where history, heritage, and community recreation converge in a scenic city centre setting.
Taste Cheshire
0.3 km
Discover Cheshire’s rich culinary heritage at Taste Cheshire, set in the charming historic Soughton House in Chester.
North West Angle Tower
0.4 km
Historic Roman and medieval tower anchoring Chester’s city walls at the northwestern corner, offering iconic views and a glimpse into the city’s defensive past.
The Antiques Shop
0.4 km
Explore genuine British antiques in a rare medieval stone town house nestled within Chester’s historic Rows.
Chester In Lego
0.4 km
Explore Chester’s iconic landmarks reimagined in vibrant Lego bricks at this interactive, family-friendly exhibit in Market Exchange Square.
Chester Market
0.5 km
Discover Chester Market’s vibrant mix of local produce, global flavors, artisan crafts, and lively community spirit in a modern, accessible setting.
Morgan's Mount
0.5 km
A historic Civil War tower on Chester’s ancient walls, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into 17th-century military defense.
Town Hall
0.5 km
Explore Chester Town Hall, a majestic 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic hub in the heart of historic Chester.
Edwardian Lady Tour
0.5 km
Discover Chester’s Edwardian charm on a captivating walking tour led by a guide in authentic period costume with exclusive Town Hall access.
Roman Strongroom
0.5 km
Explore Chester’s Roman Strongroom, a free historic site revealing ancient Roman military architecture and the city’s rich heritage.
Deva Roman Experience
0.5 km
Immerse yourself in Chester's Roman past with interactive exhibits, live actors, and authentic ruins beneath the city streets.
Chester Free Walking Tours
0.5 km
Explore Chester’s rich history and iconic landmarks on a free, expert-led walking tour through the heart of this ancient city.
Storyhouse
0.5 km
Chester’s vibrant cultural hub blending theatre, cinema, library, and community in a stunning Art Deco setting.
Essential places to dine
Upstairs At The Grill
0.3 km
Chester’s stylish steakhouse with locally sourced beef, a chic cocktail bar, and panoramic terrace views for an indulgent dining experience.
Telford's Warehouse
0.4 km
Discover Telford's Warehouse: A historic pub and restaurant offering delightful grilled cuisine and live music along Chester's scenic River Dee.
Stile Napoletano
0.4 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza crafted with passion and tradition in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Olive Tree Brasserie Chester
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Greek cuisine in Chester’s historic Watergate Street with warm ambiance and vibrant dining options.
Pars Kahve
0.5 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Miller & Carter Chester
0.5 km
Experience expertly aged steaks and classic British dining in a stylish, welcoming steakhouse at the heart of Chester.
The Kitchen
0.5 km
A vibrant Western-style eatery at Chester’s Storyhouse, blending seasonal local cuisine with a lively cultural atmosphere.
North Light Chester
0.5 km
A vibrant, stylish restaurant on Chester’s Northgate Street offering fresh, flavorful dishes in a lively, contemporary setting.
Côte Chester
0.5 km
A stylish French brasserie in Chester’s city centre offering classic dishes, diverse menus, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Moules a go-go Bar & Bistro
0.5 km
Chester’s vibrant bistro specializing in fresh Anglesey mussels, offering a lively atmosphere and diverse seafood dishes since 1999.
Urbano 32
0.6 km
Authentic sourdough pizzas from a wood-fired clay oven in the heart of Chester, served in a stylish urban-chic pizzeria and bar.
Pied Bull Restaurant
0.6 km
Historic Tudor inn and lively pub in Chester’s city centre, offering hearty British fare and charming accommodation steeped in character.
Veeno Chester
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Veeno Chester – where exquisite wine meets delectable cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
Shrub
0.6 km
Innovative vegan dining with Mediterranean and East Asian flair in Chester’s iconic Eastgate Row, featuring creative cocktails and a relaxed urban pastoral vibe.
Blue Bell
0.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a historic 15th-century setting at The Blue Bell 1494, Chester’s charming culinary gem.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sweetheart Vintage
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion accessories in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Rainforest
0.4 km
Discover Chester’s serene spiritual gift shop with crystals, mindfulness tools, and warm hospitality at Rainforest on Watergate Street.
Reminis
0.4 km
Explore Chester's hidden gem, Reminis Gift Shop, for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
The Crystal Hut New Chester Market
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant world of healing crystals and spiritual gifts at The Crystal Hut, Chester’s colorful gem in Exchange Square market.
The Gift Shop
0.5 km
Unique gifts and novelties in the heart of historic Chester's medieval city center.
Elephant
0.5 km
Explore Chester's Elephant Gift Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and charm.
Fifi Bambu
0.5 km
Discover the magic of Chester’s Watergate Street through Fifi Bambu, a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and enchanting finds.
Chester Zoo at The Market
0.5 km
Discover unique wildlife gifts and support global conservation at Chester Zoo’s vibrant market stall in the heart of Chester.
Harriet & Dee
0.5 km
Charming boutique gift and baby shop in Chester’s historic Watergate Street, known for unique presents and friendly service.
Chester Boutique
0.5 km
Discover curated contemporary fashion in Chester’s vibrant Bridge Street boutique, blending style with historic charm.
Suzie K
0.5 km
Discover Chester’s magical alternative gift shop blending unique fashion, crystals, and holistic services in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
NICHOLS
0.5 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
The Mug Doctor
0.5 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Jigsaw
0.6 km
Upscale women's fashion boutique blending timeless style with Chester’s historic charm on Bridge Street.
Rock Bottom / Florence & Company
0.6 km
Chester’s vibrant ladies' boutique offering fresh fashion, unique jewelry, and stylish scarves in a welcoming city center setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BarLounge - Chester
0.3 km
Chester’s premier lounge bar blending refined comfort food with creative cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Guild Chester
0.3 km
Chester’s stylish cocktail bar and live music venue with two bars, terrace, and a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.
Prohibition
0.4 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
Havana Chester
0.4 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
The Architect
0.4 km
Historic Georgian pub in Chester offering classic British cuisine, cask ales, and a lively atmosphere overlooking the Roodee racecourse.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.5 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Watergates Bar
0.5 km
Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Commonhall Street Social
0.5 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar with craft beers, delicious food, and a lively outdoor terrace in the heart of Chester’s city centre.
Slug & Lettuce - Chester
0.6 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
Paysan
0.6 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.6 km
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
Music Hall Tap
0.6 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.6 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Kings Head Chester
0.7 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Chester with classic British fare, a haunted reputation, and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
Historic church turned vibrant bar and restaurant in Chester, blending classic charm with modern dining and lively atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
