Top Things To Do In Chester Racecourse (Chester) In 2026 - 2027

Racecourse

Top 8 things to do in Chester Racecourse

1. Chester Races
The Chester Races, hosted at the historic Chester Racecourse, are a pinnacle event of British horse racing. Often referred to as the Roodee, Chester Racecourse is the oldest still in use in the UK, offering racegoers an exquisite blend of rich history and contemporary entertainment. At the races, attendees can experience the thrill of the sport, alongside a variety of dining options, ranging from luxury hospitality packages to casual dining and street food vendors. Fashion is a centerpiece at Chester Races, with Ladies Day providing an opportunity for attendees to showcase their finest attire. The races themselves range from reputable handicaps to distinguished cup races. The racing calendar typically spans from May to September, providing ample opportunity for visitors to soak in the lively atmosphere and potentially place a bet on their favorite thoroughbred.
Duration: Full day · Price: Prices vary from £10 for Open Course tickets to over £50 for County Stand badges, with hospitality packages costing more.
2. Polo at the Roodee
Polo events at Chester Racecourse, or the Roodee, offer an exhilarating mix of speed, skill, and socializing. As one of the sport's most glamorous affairs, polo at Chester brings together the excitement of the game with a vibrant social scene. Spectators can enjoy the fast-paced matches from the sidelines, where the thundering hooves and strategic plays make it a captivating watch. Apart from the polo itself, these events often feature a range of other activities such as fashion shows, live music, and premium dining experiences. Dress codes encourage smart attire, adding to the exclusive atmosphere. A visitor can spend a day at the polo not only viewing the sport but also enjoying a luxury picnic or sipping champagne in the company of fellow enthusiasts.
Duration: 4-6 hours · Price: Entrance fees can range from £10 to £30, with additional costs for premium seating and hospitality.
3. Chester Food and Drink Festival
The Chester Food and Drink Festival, set against the picturesque background of Chester Racecourse, is a gastronome's delight. This annual event showcases the region's finest food and drink producers, offering attendees the chance to sample and purchase a variety of local and international delicacies. From gourmet cheeses to artisan breads, and from craft beers to boutique spirits, the festival is a celebration of culinary excellence. Interactive cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs inspire visitors to explore new recipes, while various competitions add a dash of excitement to the proceedings. Families are welcome, as the festival features lots of activities for kids, including their own cooking classes. It's a day well spent indulging in the tastes and aromas of high-quality fare, picking up cooking tips, and simply enjoying the festival vibe.
Duration: 4-8 hours · Price: Entry typically ranges £5 - £15, with additional purchases optional.
4. Family Fun Days
Family Fun Days at Chester Racecourse offer an array of activities designed to entertain all ages, turning a day at the races into a much broader family event. Generally scheduled during weekend race days, these family-centric festivities include a range of kid-friendly attractions such as face painting, bouncy castles, and pony rides. Live entertainment often includes magicians, musicians, and balloon artists, creating a lively atmosphere. Though the exciting horse races remain central to the day, the additional activities ensure that there's something for everyone. It's a chance for families to experience the thrill of live sports while enjoying a day out filled with laughter, joy, and entertainment. These events are particularly appealing for those looking to introduce their children to the culture and excitement of horse racing in a fun and relaxed setting.
Duration: Full day · Price: Prices for family days vary, with some events offering free admission for children and discounted rates for adults.
5. Chester Beer Festival
The annual Chester Beer Festival, hosted on the grounds of Chester Racecourse, is a haven for beer enthusiasts. This festival brings together a vast array of beers, ales, and ciders from local, national, and international breweries. Attendees can enjoy sampling over a hundred different types of beers, ranging from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, all while learning from knowledgeable brewers about the crafting process. Aside from beer tasting, the festival includes live music performances, pub games, and a selection of food stalls serving up hearty meals to pair with the wide range of beverages. The event encourages a convivial atmosphere where beer lovers can relax, socialize, and discover new favorite brews. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just someone looking to explore the world of craft beer, the Chester Beer Festival promises a day filled with discovery and enjoyment.
Duration: 4-8 hours · Price: Tickets usually range from £10 to £20, including a souvenir glass and some starting tokens.
6. The Chester Antiques Fair
The Chester Antiques Fair is a spectacular event for both serious collectors and casual browsers. Held at the historic Chester Racecourse, visitors have the opportunity to peruse and purchase from a vast selection of quality antiques. The fair attracts reputable dealers showcasing items that span across various periods and styles, such as fine furniture, delicate porcelain, and striking jewelry. Collectibles like rare books, maps, and vintage fashion items can also be found. In addition to the antiques themselves, the fair provides an elegant backdrop for learning about the history of these items from knowledgeable experts. Attendees can benefit from the insights provided by experienced appraisers, making it an educational as well as an enjoyable outing. The fair is an excellent chance to add unique pieces to one's collection or to discover beautiful items that bring historical elegance into modern homes.
Duration: 2-4 hours · Price: Entrance fees for the fair typically range from £5 to £10.
7. Christmas at Chester Racecourse
The holiday season at Chester Racecourse is a magical time, with 'Christmas at the Races' transforming the venue into a winter wonderland. This festive experience offers a variety of seasonal events, from themed race days to Christmas parties and markets. Visitors can witness the thrill of winter racing, peruse the Christmas market for handcrafted gifts, or indulge in mulled wine and mince pies. The racecourse becomes a hub for corporate holiday celebrations and family gatherings, with beautifully decorated spaces providing the perfect setting for parties. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, afternoon teas with a festive twist are often available. The combination of high-energy races and joyous festive activities make Chester Racecourse a go-to destination in Chester during the Christmas season, full of holiday cheer and memorable entertainment for all.
Duration: Varies per event · Price: Prices vary for different events, generally ranging from £15 to over £60 for special packages.
8. The Chester Comic Con
The Chester Comic Con is a vibrant and thrilling gathering that takes place at Chester Racecourse, bringing together fans of comics, games, and pop culture. This annual event features a range of activities including Q&A sessions with famous artists and actors, cosplay competitions that encourage attendees to dress as their favorite characters, and a diverse marketplace where vendors sell comics, collectibles, art, and more. Fans have the unique opportunity to meet creators, get autographs, and partake in workshops. It’s a family-friendly event where both adults and children can enjoy workshops, meet their favorite characters, and celebrate the stories that have shaped their love for the genre. The event has become a staple for the local community and attracts visitors from across the country, establishing Chester Racecourse as not only a venue for sports but also a center for cultural events.
Duration: Full day · Price: Ticket prices can vary from £10 to £25, with potential additional costs for autographs and special items.

Other Places to Visit in Chester

View all places to visit in Chester

Chester Cathedral

Chester Zoo

Chester City Walls

The Roman Amphitheatre

The Rows (Chester)

Grosvenor Park

Eastgate Clock

Grosvenor Museum

River Dee Chester

Historical Landmark/Church

St John the Baptist's Church

Museum

Cheshire Military Museum

Marketplace

Chester Market

Historical Site

Chester Roman Gardens

Explore Places to Visit Near Chester Racecourse by Type

Beaches (1)

Historical Places (83)

Museums (60)

Zoos (4)

Gardens (5)

Other Suggested Reads for Chester Racecourse

Top 8 things to do in Chester Racecourse

1. Chester Races

The Chester Races, hosted at the historic Chester Racecourse, are a pinnacle event of British horse racing. Often referred to as the Roodee, Chester Racecourse is the oldest still in use in the UK, offering racegoers an exquisite blend of rich history and contemporary entertainment. At the races, attendees can experience the thrill of the sport, alongside a variety of dining options, ranging from luxury hospitality packages to casual dining and street food vendors. Fashion is a centerpiece at Chester Races, with Ladies Day providing an opportunity for attendees to showcase their finest attire. The races themselves range from reputable handicaps to distinguished cup races. The racing calendar typically spans from May to September, providing ample opportunity for visitors to soak in the lively atmosphere and potentially place a bet on their favorite thoroughbred.

Duration: Full day · Price: Prices vary from £10 for Open Course tickets to over £50 for County Stand badges, with hospitality packages costing more.

2. Polo at the Roodee

Polo events at Chester Racecourse, or the Roodee, offer an exhilarating mix of speed, skill, and socializing. As one of the sport's most glamorous affairs, polo at Chester brings together the excitement of the game with a vibrant social scene. Spectators can enjoy the fast-paced matches from the sidelines, where the thundering hooves and strategic plays make it a captivating watch. Apart from the polo itself, these events often feature a range of other activities such as fashion shows, live music, and premium dining experiences. Dress codes encourage smart attire, adding to the exclusive atmosphere. A visitor can spend a day at the polo not only viewing the sport but also enjoying a luxury picnic or sipping champagne in the company of fellow enthusiasts.

Duration: 4-6 hours · Price: Entrance fees can range from £10 to £30, with additional costs for premium seating and hospitality.

3. Chester Food and Drink Festival

The Chester Food and Drink Festival, set against the picturesque background of Chester Racecourse, is a gastronome's delight. This annual event showcases the region's finest food and drink producers, offering attendees the chance to sample and purchase a variety of local and international delicacies. From gourmet cheeses to artisan breads, and from craft beers to boutique spirits, the festival is a celebration of culinary excellence. Interactive cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs inspire visitors to explore new recipes, while various competitions add a dash of excitement to the proceedings. Families are welcome, as the festival features lots of activities for kids, including their own cooking classes. It's a day well spent indulging in the tastes and aromas of high-quality fare, picking up cooking tips, and simply enjoying the festival vibe.

Duration: 4-8 hours · Price: Entry typically ranges £5 - £15, with additional purchases optional.

4. Family Fun Days

Family Fun Days at Chester Racecourse offer an array of activities designed to entertain all ages, turning a day at the races into a much broader family event. Generally scheduled during weekend race days, these family-centric festivities include a range of kid-friendly attractions such as face painting, bouncy castles, and pony rides. Live entertainment often includes magicians, musicians, and balloon artists, creating a lively atmosphere. Though the exciting horse races remain central to the day, the additional activities ensure that there's something for everyone. It's a chance for families to experience the thrill of live sports while enjoying a day out filled with laughter, joy, and entertainment. These events are particularly appealing for those looking to introduce their children to the culture and excitement of horse racing in a fun and relaxed setting.

Duration: Full day · Price: Prices for family days vary, with some events offering free admission for children and discounted rates for adults.

5. Chester Beer Festival

The annual Chester Beer Festival, hosted on the grounds of Chester Racecourse, is a haven for beer enthusiasts. This festival brings together a vast array of beers, ales, and ciders from local, national, and international breweries. Attendees can enjoy sampling over a hundred different types of beers, ranging from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, all while learning from knowledgeable brewers about the crafting process. Aside from beer tasting, the festival includes live music performances, pub games, and a selection of food stalls serving up hearty meals to pair with the wide range of beverages. The event encourages a convivial atmosphere where beer lovers can relax, socialize, and discover new favorite brews. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just someone looking to explore the world of craft beer, the Chester Beer Festival promises a day filled with discovery and enjoyment.

Duration: 4-8 hours · Price: Tickets usually range from £10 to £20, including a souvenir glass and some starting tokens.

6. The Chester Antiques Fair

The Chester Antiques Fair is a spectacular event for both serious collectors and casual browsers. Held at the historic Chester Racecourse, visitors have the opportunity to peruse and purchase from a vast selection of quality antiques. The fair attracts reputable dealers showcasing items that span across various periods and styles, such as fine furniture, delicate porcelain, and striking jewelry. Collectibles like rare books, maps, and vintage fashion items can also be found. In addition to the antiques themselves, the fair provides an elegant backdrop for learning about the history of these items from knowledgeable experts. Attendees can benefit from the insights provided by experienced appraisers, making it an educational as well as an enjoyable outing. The fair is an excellent chance to add unique pieces to one's collection or to discover beautiful items that bring historical elegance into modern homes.

Duration: 2-4 hours · Price: Entrance fees for the fair typically range from £5 to £10.

7. Christmas at Chester Racecourse

The holiday season at Chester Racecourse is a magical time, with 'Christmas at the Races' transforming the venue into a winter wonderland. This festive experience offers a variety of seasonal events, from themed race days to Christmas parties and markets. Visitors can witness the thrill of winter racing, peruse the Christmas market for handcrafted gifts, or indulge in mulled wine and mince pies. The racecourse becomes a hub for corporate holiday celebrations and family gatherings, with beautifully decorated spaces providing the perfect setting for parties. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, afternoon teas with a festive twist are often available. The combination of high-energy races and joyous festive activities make Chester Racecourse a go-to destination in Chester during the Christmas season, full of holiday cheer and memorable entertainment for all.

Duration: Varies per event · Price: Prices vary for different events, generally ranging from £15 to over £60 for special packages.

8. The Chester Comic Con

The Chester Comic Con is a vibrant and thrilling gathering that takes place at Chester Racecourse, bringing together fans of comics, games, and pop culture. This annual event features a range of activities including Q&A sessions with famous artists and actors, cosplay competitions that encourage attendees to dress as their favorite characters, and a diverse marketplace where vendors sell comics, collectibles, art, and more. Fans have the unique opportunity to meet creators, get autographs, and partake in workshops. It’s a family-friendly event where both adults and children can enjoy workshops, meet their favorite characters, and celebrate the stories that have shaped their love for the genre. The event has become a staple for the local community and attracts visitors from across the country, establishing Chester Racecourse as not only a venue for sports but also a center for cultural events.

Duration: Full day · Price: Ticket prices can vary from £10 to £25, with potential additional costs for autographs and special items.