Chepstow has been part of the racing calendar for over a century, home to the Welsh Grand National on the banks of the Wye. New to racing? Our beginners guide covers everything from ticket booking to dress codes, so your first visit feels effortless.
Watch our quick 10-minute introduction video to get a feel for how a race day unfolds, then explore the guide below for everything you need to know about your first visit to Chepstow.
Click to watch the video
At Chepstow Racecourse, we host thrilling dual-code racing all year round, featuring summer Flat action alongside premier jump racing. You can view all scheduled events on our What’s On calendar, with tickets available directly on our website, through our sales team, or via Seat Unique.
When booking, select from our dedicated enclosures offering varying levels of viewing and amenities:
Want to learn where we sit in the wider racing world? Take a look at A Guide to UK Racecourses.
A day at the races is a brilliant excuse to dress up, but what matters most to us is that you feel comfortable and confident in your outfit. High-profile fixtures like the Welsh Grand National are fantastic opportunities to wear something special and soak up the big-race atmosphere.
Different enclosures and hospitality areas carry different dress requirements, so please check your ticket details before visiting. With much of our flagship racing taking place during the autumn and winter months in the Wye Valley, warm layers and waterproof coats are highly recommended. General admission areas are predominantly outdoor standing spaces, so supportive, comfortable footwear is a must. If you need to step out of the cold, there are plenty of indoor bars and viewing halls to keep you sheltered.
Our gates typically open two hours before the action starts, allowing ample time to settle in, explore the paddock, and grab refreshments.
Because race schedules differ for every fixture, be sure to check our website for your specific race day timings.
You can enter smoothly using e-tickets on your phone or printed paper tickets. Please note that general admission does not include reserved seating, so if you’d like guaranteed dining seating, be sure to book a hospitality package in advance.
Make the most of your day by watching the horses in the parade ring and checking our Starter Guide to Racing Terms before the first race!
From on-course bookmakers standing along the ring to convenient Tote stations, putting on a bet is simple and accessible for all racegoers. Make sure to consult your racecard first to assess the runners, riders, and recent form.
To get a head start on understanding betting types, view our main Betting at Chepstow page, read through our Horse Racing Betting Guide, and master How to Read a Horse Race Card. We encourage all guests to gamble responsibly.
From fast-casual eats to fine dining, there is no shortage of food and drink to explore across the venue. Guests can grab quick, flavourful options from local street food pop-ups and mobile bars dotted around the grounds.
Those after something extra special can book fine dining and hospitality directly, or contact our team to upgrade an existing general admission ticket just before the day. The View Restaurant in particular offers delicious meals with a scenic backdrop of Chepstow Castle.
Please note that no outside food or drink may be brought into the grounds, unless an exception is explicitly listed for a specific race day.
Planning your journey to the Wye Valley is easy - head over to our Getting Here page for full travel options, including local rail and bus connections. We provide plenty of free parking, but as race days bring large crowds, please factor in additional travel time for trackside traffic when arriving and leaving.
Accessibility options and support facilities are detailed on our venue accessibility page. Our friendly team is always on hand to help, so reach out before you travel or chat with our staff on arrival.
Opened in the early 1920s, Chepstow has blossomed into a bustling track that is home to the famous Welsh Grand National. Navigating the venue requires true stamina, with 5 gruelling fences lining our home straight.
Beyond our gates, the highest speed ever recorded by a racehorse is an incredible 43.97 mph!
Uncover more insights on our Horse Racing Trivia and Our Sport in Numbers pages.
Attending the races is an exciting and welcoming experience for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned racegoer or a first-time visitor, the vibrant atmosphere and thrilling races promise a memorable day out.
We encourage you to book your tickets in advance so you can start planning your race day. For more information, check out our race schedules, ticket booking, and hospitality options.
