Chester

Welcome to Chester Racecourse, affectionately known as the Roodee, and proudly holding the title of the UK's oldest continually operating racecourse, with racing dating back to 1539. Nestled within the city walls of Chester, its unique urban location creates an unrivalled atmosphere, often described as a vibrant garden party, drawing huge crowds. The track itself is a flat, left-handed oval, notorious for being exceptionally tight and just over a mile in circumference. Its sharp bends and short run-in demand agility and tactical riding, making low draws particularly advantageous. It's a true test of a horse's balance and speed, with races typically ranging from 5 furlongs up to 2 miles 2 furlongs. The highlight of the season is undoubtedly the Chester May Festival. This prestigious meeting features key Classic trials like the Chester Vase and the Cheshire Oaks, often providing valuable clues for Epsom, alongside the fiercely competitive long-distance handicap, the historic Chester Cup. Chester truly offers a unique and thrilling day at the races.