Thirsk Races 2026 dates, times & all the information to plan your race day
Discover what is the dress code for thirsk races, how far is Thirsk Train Station to Thirsk Racecourse, accommodation & other frequently asked questions.
Jump to FAQ, no jumps at Thirsk Racecourse, it is a FLAT course.
Lets begin by saying, that a visit to Thirsk Racecourse assures a warm and inviting experience
Nestled in the delightful town of Thirsk, Thirsk Racecourse is a cherished horse racing venue celebrated for its thrilling racing events.
Focused exclusively on flat race meetings, the left-handed oval track covers approximately one mile and two furlongs in circumference.
The races conclude with a run-in of just over three furlongs from the home bend to the Winning Post.
Operating primarily from April to September the racecourse hosts around 15 to 20 race meetings each year, including weekday, evening, and weekend races. Notable events at Thirsk Racecourse include the prestigious Thirsk Hunt Cup, known for attracting top-quality horses and jockeys.
Thirsk Racecourse is conveniently accessible by road, located near the A1(M) motorway, and has its own nearby train station, making it convenient for visitors from across the UK.
Whether you are a passionate racing enthusiast or seeking a delightful day out in the picturesque Yorkshire countryside, Thirsk Racecourse promises a traditional and captivating racing experience.
A warm welcome awaits for you at Thirsk Races in 2025.
Thirsk Racecourse, Station Road, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 1QL - Tel: 01845 522276
HOW TO GET TO THIRSK RACES
By Car - Sat Nav Postcode is YO7 1QL
Located to the west of the town between Carlton Miniott and the Town Centre on the A61 Thirsk/Ripon road.
Please note: All parking at Thirsk Racecourse is free of charge.
Premier Enclosure Car Parking is located near the Premier Entrance. It is reserved for:
Premier badge holders
Dining and Hospitality badge holders
Owners & Trainers
Press
Public Car Park is located on the south side of Station Road, to the rear of the main stands. This car park is for:
Grandstand, Paddock and Picnic Enclosure racegoers
Ring bookmakers
All racecourse, CGC catering and other contractors staff
The Park & View Ticket, this area is situated at the western end of the racecourse, in the area designated for picnics, so this is ideal for those who wish to picnic out of the boot of their vehicle, with a view of the course.
By Rail - Thirsk Station is located half a mile from the racecourse.
Thirsk Racecourse provides a complimentary shuttle-bus service between the station and the racecourse on all racedays. The service starts running two hours before the first race and resumes after the last race from the coach park at the far side of the racecourse.
PLAN YOUR DAY - The Premier Enclosure, The Grandstand Paddock/Picnic Enclosure & Concessions
PREMIER ENCLOSURE
Step into the Premier Enclosure & treat yourself to unparalleled grandstand views right by the winning post. Immerse yourself in the exquisite fine dining offered at the renowned restaurants & explore a wide range of bar options. With plenty of seating, a dedicated car park, & a private entrance, your visit will be nothing short of seamless. Wander through the beautifully manicured lawns & absorb the lively atmosphere of the parade ring.
GRANDSTAND, PADDOCK & PICNIC ENCLOSURE
Also known as the Tattersalls Enclosure, offering great viewing & seating, with access to the Parade Ring & the Winner’s Enclosure.
There's even space for dancing! with live music all day.
Grandstand viewing, with snack & fast food options, bar facilities. Also feel free to take along a picnic & enjoy it in the designated picnic area.
CONCESSIONS
Thirsk Racecourse provides a discounted rate for seniors. This is available for pre-booking or on the day, in the Grandstand Paddock & Picnic Enclosure at £12 for each event. Attendees also have the option to upgrade to the Premier Enclosure on the day if they desire.
Picnics are only permitted into the Grandstand Paddock and Picnic Enclosure. No food or drink is to be brought into the Premier Enclosure.
All picnic items/drinks must only be consumed in the Picnic Area and must not be taken or consumed outside of this area.
Alcohol to accompany your picnic, four cans or one bottle per person, but this must be brought in via the Picnic Entrance and cannot be brought into the Grandstand Paddock main entrance.
Please note bag searches will be made at management discretion.
You are welcome to take your own photographs for personal use.
No photography for commercial use.
Should you require images of a particular horse if you are an owner with a runner, the race day photographer Hannah Ali is present at every race day and she can be contacted beforehand should you wish to arrange bespoke photography of your horse.
There are various Tote facilities throughout the racecourse.
We also have two William Hill shops and a betting ring with many independent bookmakers accessible from both enclosures.
You can, but the racecourse strongly advise you to book via the website in advance.
It is the easiest and cheapest way, and you’ll get your e-tickets instantly.
Premier Badges and restaurant bookings will be posted within two weeks of the raceday.
Tickets and Badges will be available on the day subject to availability.
Free car parking on site for all racegoers and the public car parks are well signposted and within very close proximity to the racecourse.
Only when purchasing a Park and View ticket are racegoers permitted to park within the Racecourse.
Please note – no vehicle can be left overnight and no motorhomes in the Premier Car Park.
Vehicles entering the Park and View area that obstruct other racegoers views will be asked to park towards the back of the parking area.
YES you can use cash at the racecourse.
Both cash and cards are accepted at all catering outlets, bars, and Tote betting facilities.
Please note: There are no cash machines in the racecourse. However, the nearest one is approximately 500m away at the Tesco Supermarket opposite the course.
0.5 MILES - Around about a 15 - 20 minute walk along Station Rd/A61 towards Freemans Way.
The Golden Fleece Hotel located less than a mile from the racecourse. This delightful Three Star hotel is perfect for race enthusiasts. It boasts cozy rooms and an on-site restaurant, making it a top choice for anyone wanting to stay close by.
The Poplars Rooms & Cottages - about 1.2 miles from Thirsk Racecourse, The Poplars offers a blend of bed & breakfast rooms and self-catering cottages. It is a serene spot, ideal for guests desiring a homely atmosphere while being near the action.
The Three Tuns Hotel is a charming and historic inn situated just a leisurely stroll from Thirsk Racecourse. It features cozy rooms and a traditional pub on the ground floor, making it an ideal choice for those seeking convenient accommodations near the races. Plus, you’ll have the added advantage of exploring all that Thirsk has to offer.
Thirsk Racecourse desires that the race days are to be a place for everyone to enjoy.
Actively supporting the RCA and Drink Aware's Pace Yourself campaign – encouraging responsible drinking on a raceday to make sure you last the distance.
Drink Aware - the message is simple – allow one soft drink to every alcoholic one.
Please be aware that anyone disregarding the drink aware message and do become drunk and disorderly, will be immediately evicted from the racecourse with no refunds.
Unfortunately, during the troubled years of 1914 to 1923, Thirsk Racecourse had to close down for the war.
In 1967, the Tatterstalls and family stand were built (over 50 years old now).
In 1999, a bit more recently, the Pavilion Stand was constructed.
The founder of Lord's Cricket Ground, Thomas Lord, has a restaurant in the racecourse named after him.
The Chestnut Room, a modern Owners and Trainers structure, was opened in September 2018.
Thirsk Meetings at a Glance
Fri 10th April - Season Opener
Sat 18th Apr - Afternoon Meeting
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CITY OF YORK
If you fancy visiting near by York for even more horse racing - the city is just over 23 miles away from Thirsk Via the A19 (around 35 minutes).
There is also the train you can hop onto, whch takes around 16 minutes. Thirsk Railway Station, Station Road, Thirsk YO7 4LS
The Premier Enclosure, which includes the Private Hospitality Boxes, has a dress code for gentlemen. A collared shirt, smart long trousers (dark denim is acceptable), or tailored shorts, and shoes (smart leather trainers are acceptable) are required. Jackets and ties are not mandatory, but they are encouraged.
Ladies are to dress elegantly for the Premier Enclosure, and many choose to adorn a hat or fascinator to complement their attire.
Please refrain from wearing sportswear, fancy dress, shorts, ripped or torn clothing, mottle-dyed denim, or any other attire that, in the opinion of the management, does not adhere to the dress code.
Please note: There is no dress code in the Grandstand, Paddock and Picnic Enclosure.
