[dropcap]H[/dropcap]orse racing is an immensely popular sport in the UK, with a huge fanbase and numerous events to head to throughout the year. Wherever you’re based in the country, you can find horse racing events to enjoy close by. While every horse racing event has its own unique qualities that make it an enjoyable experience, these are some of the best taking place throughout the year that have come to be the most popular among fans to use their free bets on.
Aintree Grand National
The Grand National is an early season event that over 600 million people tune in to watch on TV. It’s an iconic race that is also one of the more challenging courses in this list, with 30 fences in this thrilling jumps race. There’s also the addition of various hospitality tents and restaurants on-site that make it a really enjoyable day for visitors.
Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot is a renowned and prestigious event that takes place every year in June. With a huge number of attendees, including royalty and celebrities, it’s a fun event that gives visitors the opportunity to watch fantastic racing and do some celebrity spotting as well. Alongside the exhilarating races and the fact that the Queen has attended every year throughout her reign, Royal Ascot is known for its glamorous dress code and a rich purse of over £6 million.
Epsom Derby
The Epsom Derby is a fun-filled summer celebration, with prizes for the best dressed, plenty of music and bars, as well as brilliant racing. There’s also the dedicated Ladies Day where the ladies are invited into the Queen’s stand and have the chance to hang out with celebrities. Epsom Derby has some well-known features such as Derby Day and The Greatest Flat Race in the World, as well as the Investec Derby Stakes which is the final event.
Scottish Grand National
The Scottish Grand National is a highlight of the Scottish racing calendar and involves eight races. The result of the Coral Scottish Grand National is run over four miles and 27 fences and is hugely popular, not just with sports fans but also with families for a fun day out.
Cheltenham Festival
More than 260,000 people make their way to Cheltenham festival each year, which is commonly referred to as “The Festival”. With a purse of more than £4 million, it’s a competitive race and even has a dedicated Hall of Fame and Trophy Room. Cheltenham Festival has a unique and unrivalled atmosphere and is truly one of the highlights of the UK’s jumps season.
Goodwood Festival
A huge summer highlight that takes place at the Goodwood Racecourse in Chichester in August, the Goodwood Festival has a rich history and is steeped in tradition. It rivals Ascot for the glamour of the event and the calibre of its attendees, as well as being set to a stunning backdrop of the Sussex countryside, that makes this five-day event a must for horse racing enthusiasts.
