Overview
Worcester Racecourse is a popular National Hunt venue set beside the River Severn, just a short walk from Worcester city centre.
Known for its relaxed atmosphere, scenic riverside setting, and competitive summer jumps racing, Worcester attracts a lively mix of locals, racing fans, and families. The course’s flat, oval layout and easy access make it a great spot for both seasoned punters and those looking for a fun, sociable day out.
History
Racing at Worcester dates back to at least 1718, making it one of the oldest courses in the country. The current site, known as Pitchcroft, has hosted racing since 1718 and has seen everything from royal visits to major summer festivals.
The course has survived floods and changing fashions, investing in modern facilities while retaining its traditional charm.
Course Characteristics
Worcester is a left-handed, flat, oval-shaped turf track about a mile and a half around. The course features easy bends, a long home straight, and well-placed fences, providing a fair test for jumpers.
The ground can get soft after rain, especially with its riverside location, but the track is generally regarded as one of the fairest in the country for both horses and riders.
- Track Type: Left-handed, flat, oval, turf, National Hunt only
- Jumps: Easy fences, long home straight, fair and forgiving layout
- Notable Quirk: The course sits right beside the River Severn, offering lovely views and a city-centre location
Facilities
Worcester offers two main enclosures: Grandstand & Paddock and Centre Course. Both provide good views, access to bars, restaurants, and betting outlets.
The course features a parade ring, hospitality suites, and riverside lawns ideal for summer picnics. Family-friendly areas and play zones make it a great choice for all ages.
- Ticket Prices (2025): Centre Course £10–£15, Grandstand & Paddock £18–£25 (under-18s free with an adult)
- Drinks: Pint £6.20, glass of wine £7, soft drinks £2.80
- Food: From classic racecourse snacks and burgers to carvery and local specialties
Atmosphere
Worcester is known for its friendly, laid-back crowd and riverside charm. Feature meetings, like Ladies’ Day and the summer festivals, draw big crowds and a lively buzz, while regular fixtures are sociable and easy-going. The proximity to the city centre makes it a popular choice for groups and after-work gatherings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Riverside setting with city-centre convenience
- Fair, flat track with excellent viewing
- Family-friendly facilities and picnic lawns
- Good value tickets and easy access from across the Midlands
Cons:
- National Hunt only—no Flat racing
- Facilities are traditional rather than ultra-modern
- Can be busy on summer weekends—arrive early for the best spots
Notable Facts
- Worcester’s Pitchcroft site has hosted racing for over 300 years.
- The course is a favourite for summer jumps racing in the Midlands.
- The riverside lawns are perfect for picnics and group outings.
Betting Advice
Worcester’s flat, fair circuit suits speedy, fluent jumpers and those with a turn of foot. The long home straight gives hold-up horses a chance to challenge late, especially in big-field handicaps.
Course specialists and those with form at similar tracks (like Stratford or Market Rasen) are always worth a look. Watch for trainers who regularly target the summer fixtures.
- Look for: Speedy, fluent jumpers, course specialists, and strong finishers
- Trainer angles: Midlands trainers often excel, especially in summer handicaps
- Pace: Hold-up horses can swoop late on the long straight
Getting There
Worcester Racecourse is just a short walk from Worcester city centre, well signposted from the A44 and A449. Free parking is available on site, with dedicated spaces for disabled visitors. The nearest train station is Worcester Foregate Street, about a 10-minute walk from the course.
Parking
Parking is free and plentiful, with disabled spaces near the main entrance.
What to Wear
There’s no strict dress code—smart casual is fine for all enclosures. Dress for the weather, as the course is open and can be breezy, and comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the lawns and riverside areas.
Final Thoughts
Worcester Racecourse delivers enjoyable summer jumps racing in a scenic, city-centre setting. With its fair track, relaxed crowd, and riverside views, it’s a great spot for a day out in the Midlands.
