"The Roodee is one of the most atmospheric sporting venues in England — a Roman meadow enclosed by medieval walls, where the roar of the crowd mingles with two thousand years of history."
About The Roodee
Nestled within Chester's iconic Roman city walls on the banks of the River Dee, Chester Racecourse — known locally as The Roodee — is the oldest racecourse in continuous use in England. Horse racing has been staged here since 1539, and today the venue blends centuries of tradition with world-class hospitality, entertainment, and some of the finest flat racing in the country.
The course is unique: a left-handed, near-circular track barely a mile in circumference, which creates tight, intimate racing where the field is almost always in view. This makes Chester one of the best spectator racecourses in Britain — the stands are close to the action, the atmosphere is unbeatable, and the setting, surrounded by Roman walls and the River Dee, is simply unforgettable.
May — The Season Begins
The Chester racing season launches in spectacular fashion with the three-day Boodles May Festival — the headline event of the entire year. This is Chester at its absolute finest: top-class racing, exceptional fashion, and an atmosphere to rival any racecourse in the country.
The Boodles May Festival
Chester's flagship racing festival, held across three days in early May, is widely regarded as one of the finest racing occasions in the British flat racing calendar. With Group races, an electric atmosphere, exclusive hospitality, and some of the most stylish racegoers in the country, it is essential booking for anyone visiting Chester in spring. Tickets and hospitality sell out early — book well in advance.
Full Festival Information ↗
June — The Social Season
As summer arrives, Chester's racing calendar shifts into a more relaxed, sociable gear. June brings two popular mid-week fixtures with an evening atmosphere, along with the exclusive Away Racing trip to Royal Ascot.
July — Music Meets Racing
July is when Chester Racecourse fully embraces its role as an entertainment destination. The music weekend is one of the most popular events of the calendar — combining live acts, evening racing, and an unforgettable atmosphere under the Cheshire skies.
August — The Spectacular Summer
August at Chester is outstanding. A packed month delivers a major family day, one of the most talked-about concerts of the year, Ladies Day with live celebrity entertainment, and a colourful Rum & Reggae festival to round off the summer in style.
September — The Grand Finale
As the season draws to a close, the stakes are raised. September's trio of race meetings — the Virgin Bet Autumn Festival across two days, followed by the Season Finale — provides a rousing send-off to another exceptional year at The Roodee.
Away Racing — Autumn & Winter
Chester Racecourse extends the racing season beyond The Roodee with two prestigious away racing trips in the final months of 2026, giving members and guests the chance to experience two of the most celebrated meetings in the European calendar.
Planning Your Visit
Whether it's your first time at The Roodee or your twentieth, a little planning goes a long way at Chester Racecourse. Here are the essentials to make the most of your day.