Frequently Asked Questions - Chester Racecourse

FAQs

Most Common

Ticketing

Plan Your Day

Conferences and Events

Accessibility

Feedback

Most Common

Neigh doubt about it — these are the questions we hear most often from our racegoers!

What is the dress code at Chester Racecourse?

We want you to feel fabulous in whatever you wear on a raceday but we do have certain dress codes for each enclosure. Lucky for you, we have a guide which tells you the yays or neighs! To view the dress codes for each enclosure, please click HERE.

How do the enclosures differ?

A relaxed family day out, a fun-filled outing with friends or a racing focussed experience – whatever you come the races for, we’ve got enclosures to suit your needs. To view the different enclosures we have to offer, please click HERE.

Are children allowed to come to the races?

You bet they can and even better – children aged 17 and under go FREE! For general admission areas, no ticket is required but for hospitality areas, a pre-booked child ticket is needed. To do this, simply email hospitality@chester-races.com

*Please note – children are not allowed in The Garden or Winning Post Enclosures – this is where the grown-ups let their hair down!

What forms of payment do you accept?

We’re cashless (apart from the bookmakers) for all your drinks and tasty nibbles, we accept all major debit/credit cards and Apple/Android Pay.

For placing bets, cash can be used with our on-course bookmakers.

What is the difference between hospitality and general admission?

Raceday hospitality is all about booking a spot where delicious food and refreshing tipples might be included. Perks like free racecards, welcome drinks, unlimited bars, and complimentary parking come with our hospitality packages. We have plenty of cool spaces around the racecourse that offer different vibes. Check them out here.

General admission tickets get you into the racecourse, but we have some areas that we call ‘premium general admission’ that offer extra perks in exclusive spots like the County Long Room, Winning Post and The Garden.

Ticketing

Gallop through the ins and outs of tickets, from booking to scanning at the gate.

Which forms of payment do you accept?

We’re cashless (apart from the bookmakers) For all your drinks and tasty nibbles, we accept all major debit/credit cards and Apple/Android Pay.

For placing bets, cash can be used with our on-course bookmakers.

Can I just turn up on the day or do I need to pre-book?

Booking early means saving big! Our dynamic pricing system rewards early birds with the best prices. The earlier you book, the less you pay. If you prefer spontaneity, you can grab tickets at our pop up guest services on Nun’s Road or at our main guest services at Watergate Square (depending on the enclosure.) Here’s when you can snag tickets:

Day Fixtures: Until 11:00am

Twilight Fixtures: Until 1:00pm

Evening Fixtures: Until 3:00pm

Your website won’t let me book more than 9 tickets?

To keep things smooth and speedy, we’ve decided to limit booking under one name to a maximum of 9 ticket per race day. This means quicker entry and shorter queues for everyone!

Got a big group of 10 or more? Just give Guest Services a ring on 01244 304610. And here’s a sweet bonus: if you book 10 or more tickets, the lead booker gets in free in Roodee, Tattersalls or County Concourse enclosures.

Why does a processing fee apply when purchasing tickets?

All tickets are subject to a £1.25 processing fee. This is a fee which is applied by our ticketing provider and is added to your basket at the checkout stage.

Can I buy tickets as a gift?

You can’t buy happiness, but a Chester Racecourse gift card is close enough! Grab a digital gift card by clicking HERE. You can load it with any amount between £20 and £500, and they can use it whenever they like on the fixture of their choice – and trust us, we’ve got plenty!

I’m trying to book online but the fixture has disappeared.

Ready to book your raceday tickets? Here’s the scoop: you can pre-book online until midnight (00:00am) the day before the race. This helps us get your tickets to you in time, even if you book last minute. After that, you’ll need to buy tickets in person at Guest Services.

How do I receive my tickets?

As the raceday approaches, we’ll email you all the details on how to download your tickets. It’s easy peasy! Hospitality guests will receive e-tickets that can be easily shared with your party and scanned at the gates – either on your smartphone or printed out.

Here’s how tickets will appear in your inbox:

Group Together: Gmail, Googlemail, Yahoo, and Sky
Spam Folder: iCloud, Me, AOL
Individual: Outlook

If we’re coming in a group, do we all need to arrive together?

All tickets will be sent directly to the lead booker. So, if you’re booking for a group, make sure everyone arrives at the gate together to be scanned in a team!

Want to avoid the group hustle? Make separate bookings so each person gets their own ticket. If you’re a group of 9 or more and book through Guest Services, you’ll get individual e-tickets for each member, allowing everyone to enter separately if you prefer.

And here’s a sweet bonus: if you book 10 or more tickets, the lead booker gets in free in Roodee, Tattersalls or County Concourse enclosures.

What is the difference between hospitality and general admission?

Raceday hospitality is all about booking a spot where delicious food and refreshing tipples are included. Perks like free racecards, welcome drinks, unlimited bars, and complimentary parking come with our hospitality packages. We have plenty of cool spaces around the racecourse that offer different vibes. Check them out HERE.

What does each enclosure offer?

I haven’t received my e-tickets for hospitality.

Hospitality bookers will receive their e-tickets via email in the two weeks leading up to the raceday. Keep an eye on your junk/spam folder – sometimes those sneaky emails hide there!

If you still can’t find your tickets, give us a shout at hospitality@chester-races.com at least 48 hours before the raceday.

Are children allowed to come to the races?

*Please note – children are not allowed in The Garden or Winning Post Enclosures – this is where the grown-ups let their hair down!

Can I get a refund or exchange if there are transport strikes?

In line with our refund policy, we can’t offer refunds and or exchanges for tickets affect by transport strikes. But don’t worry, there’s of plenty of ways to get to the racecourse so you’ll be able to find an alternate way in no time!

Can I get a refund if it rains of the raceday I’m attending?

Weatherproof your special day at the races by taking advantage of our wet weather promise. We’re taking a hold of the REINS and offering a free return visit if the rain pours on your racedays.*

If you’ve booked tickets in the Roodee or Tattersalls enclosure and your day is affected by continuous heavy rain, you can request a free ticket to return for another of our exciting racedays. Call Guest Services on 01244 304600 and our team will be happy to take your booking for another day at the racecourse – this time on us!

*Offer applies if there is continuous heavy rainfall for an hour or more, greater than 4mm per hour as stated by the Met Office within the location of Chester Racecourse. Only applicable on tickets in the Roodee and Tattersalls enclosure. One free return visit only. Subject to availability on choice of fixture for return visit.

Plan Your Day

Trot through tips and tricks to make your day at the races a front-runner experience.

Dress Code

Why do we have a dress code?

Going to the races isn’t just about the thrill of the track — it’s about the glamour, the style, and the unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re rocking a statement hat, a sharp suit, or your favourite heels, dressing up adds to the magic of the day.

Embrace the elegance. Channel your inner fashionista. Make race day your runway. After all, when else do you get to dress like this?

What is the dress code at Chester Racecourse?

What if I have a medical condition which prevents me from complying with the dress code in an enclosure?

If you have any concerns about meeting the dress code for the enclosure you wish to book, we’re here to help! Simply complete our short online form on our contact us page.

Once submitted, our team will review your request and get back to you as soon as possible. If you qualify for an exemption, you will receive a digital letter via email from Guest Services, which you can show to stewards and security staff upon arrival at the racecourse.

What happens if I turn up at the racecourse in the wrong dress code?

You can find the dress code information on our website, in the “Plan Your Day” emails we send out before each day and even at the gates when you arrive.

If you arrive and your outfit doesn’t quite match the dress code, our friendly staff will need to ask you to make some adjustments. Forgot a tie? No problem! Grab one at Guest Services on the day, and the best part – all profits go to charity! For other dress code fixes, there are shops just a short walk away where you can pick up whatever you need.

Just a heads-up, we can’t offer refunds for dress code issues – so double check before you head out!

Do you relax the dress code when it is hotter than usual?

Our excellent health and safety team is always on the lookout to keep you safe, even when the weather gets a little wild. They’ll be keeping an eye of the forecast leading up to a raceday so if it gets a little too hot, we’ll let you know ahead of time if we’re relaxing the dress code. Just keep up to date on our website, social media and emails!

Facilites

Will there be a cloakroom?

Fear not, we’ve got cloakroom facilities in the County Stand and County Long Room. If you’re in another area, you’ll just need to keep an eye on your belongings throughout the day.

Do you have storage facilities?

Sorry, we do not have storage facilities anywhere on site.

Is there Wi-Fi?

You bet there is! We’ve got complimentary Wi-Fi all over the racecourse just for you.

Wi-Fi Networks: ChesterRacecourse1/ChesterRacecourse2

Just log in, fill out the quick Sky Wi-Fi Registration Form, and you’ll all set to enjoy Wi-Fi for the whole raceday.

I’ve heard you block access to bookmaker websites via your Wi-Fi, is this true?

That definitely didn’t come straight from the horse’s mouth! Our Wi-Fi doesn’t block access to independent betting sites.

Can I charge my phone anywhere?

Good news! You can purchase powers bands at our guest services hubs which are dotted around the racecourse – just keep in mind they’re available on a first come, first serve basis.

We don’t currently have charging facilities for personal devices, so please make sure yours are fully charged before you leave home or bring a portable power bank with you.

How much are racecards and where can I buy them?

Our racecards are just £5.00 each. If you’re in hospitality, the County Long Room, Winning Post, or the Garden, you’re in luck – you get a complimentary racecard with your package! Look out for our super friendly racecard sellers at their brightly branded stands all around the racecourse.

Do you sell merchandise?

We now sell Chester Racecourse branded merchandise! So whether you’re shielding your eyes from the dazzling sunshine with our sunglasses or grooving into the night in flip flops, we’ve got your race day look sorted.

Just look out for our Guest Experience hubs dotted around the racecourse.

Tote Bags – £5.00
Sunglasses – £6.00
Ponchos – £1.00
Power Banks – £8.00
Sewing Kits – £3.00
Plasters – £1.00
Umbrellas – £6.00
Flip Flops – £5.00
Ties – £5.00
Bucket hats – £5.00

Do you sell cigarettes?

Just a heads-up, we don’t sell any tobacco products on site.

Are dogs allowed on the racecourse?

On a raceday we do not allow any dogs on site, except assistance dogs and our sniffer dogs.

Do you allow ball games on the Open Course on racedays?

Ball games are allowed in certain areas. Just chat with a steward when you arrive to get the details for the day.

Will food and drink be available?

Each enclosure has its own delicious food and drink options from a mix of racecourse-owned outlets and third-party traders. Enjoy the tasty variety!

Can I buy hot drinks, soft drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, gluten-free lager etc?

We’re all about catering to everyone’s tastes! Our bars serve an amazing variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. If you need something special like gluten-free beer, just drop us an email at enquiries@chester-races.com so we can stock up for you. On the day, feel free to ask at the bar for more info.

And don’t worry about staying hydrated – we’ve got free water available at the water stations located at the bars around the racecourse.

Can you put an announcement over your PA system if we’re celebrating a special occasion?

Just a heads-up, our PA system is reserved for pre-planned commentary and emergency announcements, so we can’t take personal requests. Thanks for understanding!

Do you host best-dressed competitions?

Of course we do, it’s one of our favourite things to do on a raceday! So, wear your best fascinator, frock or fedora and get ready to pose and smile for the camera. We’ll let you know about upcoming best-dressed competitions and the jaw-dropping prizes on our website, social media channels and email ahead of the raceday.

Our best-dressed competitions are usually on our Boodles May Festival Ladies Day and our Ladies Day in August.

App2Tapp

Gallop past the bar queues at Chester Races!

Craving beer and cider but can’t stand the wait? We’ve partnered with app2tap to keep you in the heart of the action.

Download the app, trot through the onboarding, and get yourself race day ready.

https://onelink.to/app2tap

Don’t get left at the gate – download now to make sure you’re all set before the big day!

Parking & Admission

Gate Information

Please use the following gates when entering the racecourse on a race day (according to your enclosure ticket).

Gate 3 | Winning Post, Edinburgh Gin Garden & All Hospitality (except County Boxes + Restaurant 1539)

Gate 3A | County Concourse

Gate 4 | County Long Room, 1539, & 1539 Roof

Gate 4A | County Boxes, Annual Members & Shareholders

Gate 5 | Tattersalls Enclosure

Gate 6 | Tattersalls Enclosure

Gate 7 | Tattersalls Enclosure

Gate 8 | The Roodee

Gate 9 | The Roodee

Gate 11 | All enclosures arriving via vehicle (except Roodee)

Fast Track Tattersalls

Priority access is via Guest Services and includes a race card.

Fast Track County

Priority access is via Gate 3a (fast track lane) and includes a race card.

If arriving by car, Gate 11.

Can we park on the racecourse on the day?

Absolutely! We offer racegoers the chance to park right on site at the racecourse on racedays. Parking is chargeable per car, and you can grab your car park passes in advance on our website when your buy your tickets, or even on the day.

Please call Guest Services on 01244 304 610 for more information.

Please note: purchasing a car parking ticket in advance does not guarantee a reserved parking space on the day.

Card payment only will be taken on arrival on the day.

Car parking is £12 per car.

Please note for Family Day, car parking cannot be purchased in advanced.

Our friendly team of stewards will park you in order of arrival and help guide you at the end of the day. Just a heads-up – car and valuables are left at the owner’s risk, and we ask that you don’t leave your car overnight.

Is there parking available for coaches?

There’s plenty of parking for coaches at the local ‘Little Roodee car park’ – open 24 hours.

For information on coach tariffs, please click here.

Please can we remind drivers to be mindful of local residents when they drop-off or pick up – do not leave engines idling or wait in residential areas.

Will my bag be searched on entry?

Just a heads up, we do check all bags when you enter the racecourse. To keep things speedy and so you don’t have to wait in the queues FURLONG, we suggest only bringing a bag if it’s really necessary. Let’s keep the lines moving and get you to the races pronto!

Do you have sniffer dogs?

On racedays, you might notice our sniffer (drug detection) dogs at the admission gates, helping to keep everyone safe. We also have amnesty bins available, where you can anonymously and voluntarily surrender items like drugs or knives etc. These measures are in place to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and safe experience.

Can I bring a picnic?

Picnic time? You’re welcome to enjoy your picnic in the Open Course area of the Roodee Enclosure, right in the centre of the track.

Just a quick note: picnics aren’t allowed in the Dee Stand. And for all other enclosures, please leave your food and drinks at home.

Things to note about our Picnic Policy:

Guests can bring a picnic, with a moderate amount of alcohol (two cans of beer or half a bottle of wine per person) to accompany it, into the designated Car Park Picnic Area. However, this area cannot be accessed on foot, or by taxi.

Alcohol can not be brought into the Roodee Enclosure on foot via gate 9 or any other gate on Nuns Road.

All alcohol must be consumed or left in the Car Park Picnic Area before entering the Roodee Enclosure.

BBQs are allowed in designated areas of the Car Park Picnic Area, but not in the Roodee Enclosure.

Roodee Enclosure Policy

If you’re heading into our Roodee Enclosure. there’s a few things to be aware of:

We only allow gazebos and parasols in the Car Park Picnic Area and they should not be bigger than 3m x 3m in size. Gazebos are subject to a £10 charge.

Ball games are allowed in limited circumstances. Please speak to a steward when you arrive to clarify rules on the day.

No large speaker systems are allowed.

Can I bring an umbrella?

Unfortunately, we can’t control the weather which means occasionally there’s a bit of drizzle on a raceday. So don’t forget to check the forecast before you head out! Brollies might be needed.

Conferences and Events

Whether you are coming for a team meeting, annual conference or gala dinner let us put your mind at ease

Do I have to pay for parking?

No, all our on site parking is completely free of charge. Located right in front of the county stand, the car park is centrally located for all on site venues.

Accessibility

We’re on the right track to make race days welcoming for everyone, here’s how!

I need a carer to accompany me, do they also need to pay?

If you have any accessibility concerns, we’ve got you covered with our Companion Pass. This pass is issued along with your ticket or badge and offer the same access and services as your ticket. Essentially, it’s a complimentary ticket for your buddy!

Who can get a Companion Pass?

Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

Attendance Allowance (AA)

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)

Access Card with a +1 symbol

Plus, if you’re Registered Blind, you’re also eligible.

A few things to note:

The complimentary ticket is valid for the Roodee, Tattersalls & County Concourse enclosures.

For the Long Room, Winning Post and The Garden, there will be a price reduction.

No reductions on hospitality tickets.

To get your Companion Pass, just give our Guest Services a call at 01244 304610, at least 7 days before the event.

Do you have Digital Racecards?

We’re proud to offer digital racecards for those with visual impairments. These handy PDF racecards can be used with your own software to read out the racecourse details through earphones or speakers.

Just a heads up: you’ll need to have the software pre-installed on your device, as we’re unable to assist with the installation.

To request your digital racecard, drop us an email at marketing@chester-races.com

Are There Any Quiet Spaces at the Racecourse?

We now have two on site quiet spaces for optimal comfort. At our on-site Holiday Inn Express, we’ve created a calm and cosy space just for racegoers who might want a little time out from the hustle and bustle. And in our Roodee enclosure, we have built a designated space specifically to create a comfortable environment for those who need it.

This quiet zone is designed with minimal sensory stimulation—perfect for relaxing, recharging, or just enjoying a peaceful moment. Our lovely, trained stewards are on hand to make sure everything runs smoothly and comfortably.

It’s open every race day, so feel free to pop in as soon as you arrive, or swing by later if you need a break during the excitement.

Are There Accessible Viewing Platforms?

In every enclosure (except for the Open Course, where you can bring your own chairs) we have accessible viewing platforms just for you. These platforms offer a great vantage point for watching the races and provide a nice space away from the crowds. While there’s no seating on the platforms, they are wheelchair friendly. The Paddock viewing platforms, in particular, offers fantastic views of the track and the winning post.

Access to these platforms is available for Companion Pass holders only. You can use the platform as your base for the day or just pop by whenever you need a break.

Is there Dee Stand access for wheelchair users?

There are steep steps leading into the Dee Stand. If you need level access to the Dee Stand, we’ve got you covered! Wheelchair users or anyone who has difficulty with stairs can easily access the Dee Stand by using the Fast Track Lane for Tattersalls at Gate 4, right past Guest Services. Alternatively, you can park on the Open Course and enter the Dee Stand from there.

Do you have transit wheelchairs?

We have transit wheelchairs available for guests on a first-come, first-served basis due to limited availability. To ensure the safety and accountability of the wheelchairs, we charge a small £5.00 fee to collect identification and contact details from users.

Guests can contact Guest Services on 01244 304 600 to pre-order.

Is there accessible parking?

We’ve got accessible parking available in two spots at the racecourse: the Holiday Inn Car Park at the main entrance (hardstanding) and the Open Course near Gate 11 (on grass.)

To make sure you have the best experience, please choose the parking option that suits your needs. Wheelchairs users might find the Holiday Inn Express Car Park more convenient, while the grass parking on the Open Course could be better for other accessibility requirements.

If you’re visiting the County Concourse, County Long Room, Leverhulme Stand, Restaurant 1539 or Private Boxes, the Holiday Inn accessible parking is the closest option. For those with Roodee or Tattersalls tickets, the Open Course is nearer.

Please note, there’s a pre booking parking charge for the Holiday Inn accessible car park, as it’s not a registered Blue Badge parking facility. Hardstanding spaces are limited and need to be pre-booked.

To request a space, please call Guest Services on 01244 304 600.

Do you have accessible toilets?

You’ll find accessible toilets all-round the racecourse, whether you’re in general admission enclosures like the Roodee and Tattersalls, or hospitality enclosures like The White Horse and Restaurant 1539.

There are maps at various points on the racecourse showing where the toilets are, along with dedicated signage. And if you need help, just ask any of our friendly staff members for directions.

Is the Dress Code adjustable?

Our Dress Code is to ensure that everyone enjoys the glitz and glamour of our racedays. It helps maintain the venue’s elegant atmosphere and ensures fair treatment for all guests.

We understand that some racegoers may face challenges in meeting the dress code requirements. Our goal is for everyone to have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

If you find it difficult to comply with the dress code for a specific enclosure, please call Guest Services on 01244 304 600.

Feedback

Got thoughts? We’re all ears! Whether it’s praise, ideas, or things we need to work on, we love hearing from you—feedback fuels our fun.

I have some feedback. Who do I speak to?

Got feedback? We’d to love to hear it! On a raceday just chat with any of our friendly staff members. While we always aim for perfection, sometimes things don’t go as planned. But don’t worry – we’ll do our best to fix any issues that pop up!

If we can’t assist you right away, you can share your thoughts by filling out our complaints and compliments form HERE. Our dedicated guest service team will read and respond to your feedback and investigate further if needed.