For a day of high-quality entertainment where you can get dressed up and mingle, take a trip to Exeter Racecourse. Set within the stunning Devon countryside, this racecourse captures the excitement of race days with its annual 17 days of jump racing, alongside excellent hospitality and plenty of fun onsite.
If you’re searching for a racecourse that’s easy to get to by rail, then look no further than Exeter Racecourse. It has plenty to offer, whether you’re visiting for a celebration, a business event or a fun afternoon with friends. Read on to discover more about this thrilling racecourse, including how to get there and where to stay.
Set in the beautiful Devon countryside near the city of Exeter, Exeter Racecourse’s address is Kennford, Exeter EX6 7XS.
With a free bus service running between Exeter St. Davids to Exeter Racecourse on race days, we recommend choosing this station when visiting for a race. From Exeter Central, the fastest route to the racecourse is by taxi, which should take around 20 minutes.
Things to do at Exeter Racecourse
From watching the races to bargain hunting at car boot sales, there are many things to do at Exeter Racecourse. Here are some of our top recommendations:
Races at Exeter Racecourse
Undoubtedly the main attraction at Exeter Racecourse is its race days. Events run from October to December, and visitors enjoy everything from the season opener to the Haldon Gold Cup Day. Let’s look at some of the annual events to look forward to:
- Season Opener – Kicking off Exeter race days in October, the season opener is the perfect way to begin the racing season. The day won’t be short of action and suspense with six hurdle races and one chase race.
- Best Mate Beginners’ Chase Day – This annual event includes two hurdles, three chases and one flat to keep the crowds entertained.
- Haldon Gold Cup Day – Expect seven thrilling races on Haldon Gold Cup Day!
- Afternoon Racing – Four hurdle and three chase races will keep spectators entertained during afternoon race events.
- Mansion Bet Devon Air Ambulance Raceday – Supporting a fantastic cause, this charity day consists of four hurdle races and three chase races.
- Festive Raceday – Begin your Christmas celebrations with the Festive Raceday, taking place in early December every year. Enjoy watching some of horse racing’s leading names take part in the hurdlers and the chasers. Don’t forget to pick up your mulled wine and mince pie on arrival.
- Christmas Raceday – In mid-December, celebrate Christmas in style with Exeter’s Christmas Raceday. Tuck into some complimentary Christmas treats as you watch a combination of hurdle and chase races.
What to wear at Exeter Racecourse
Deciding what to wear is one of the most exciting parts of planning for the races, so knowing the dress code is a must. While the dress code at Exeter Racecourse isn’t stringent, many people choose to dress smartly, with women wearing hats or fascinators and men wearing suits. Fancy dress is permitted so long as it’s not offensive. However, fancy dress and offensive clothing is not allowed in the hospitality and restaurant facilities or the Premier Enclosure.
The races at Exeter Racecourse predominantly take place over the winter months. You might want to bring a thick coat and some closed-toe shoes to keep you warm as you watch the races. Combine comfort and style – you can’t go wrong!
Exeter Racecourse car boot sales
Pick up a bargain at one of Exeter Racecourse’s car boot sales. Occurring every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday (not including race days) in the Owners and Trainers Carpark, they’re great for those who like to while away the hours with some retail therapy. Sellers should arrive at 11:00 to secure their spot, while buyers can visit the car boot from 13:00 onwards.
Exeter Racecourse events and hospitality
Exeter Racecourse offers plenty of spaces and suites to hire for various events, including weddings and private parties, exhibitions, conferences and more. Rooms and bars include the Iddesleigh Gallery, A.P Bar, Best Mate, Denman, Desert Orchid, Golden Jubilee, Haldon Room, River Rooms and Sabin Du Loir.
Things to do near Exeter Racecourse
With Exeter Racecourse’s beautiful Devonshire location, you can continue the fun even once the races have ended.
Those passionate about history and architecture should visit the grand Exeter Cathedral, Devon’s most iconic building. The famous Jurassic Coast is also worth visiting, particularly on a clear day where the views stretch for miles. Continue your scenic stroll at Dartmoor National Park, or head to Exeter town centre to enjoy a broad range of shops, restaurants and bars.
Food and drinks
Has all that adrenaline left you with an appetite? You won't have to go hungry at Exeter Racecourse, with mobile catering units in all enclosures. Enjoy hot and cold snacks and meals, including burgers, pizzas and fish and chips. There are gluten-free and vegetarian options, too, which means there’s something to satisfy every hungry visitor. Quench your thirst with a delicious hot or cold drink, or get merry with a glass of bubbly or another favourite tipple.
Bars at the Racecourse include The Denman Room Bar, serving good old British classics like fish and chips. A.P.’s Bar and Martin Pipe Bar offer delicious Devon pasties and homemade soups, an ideal way to warm up.
If you fancy making your day even more special, why not upgrade to hospitality? With exclusive access to private boxes and exquisite restaurant dining, you can enjoy the finest meals during your day at the races.
Accommodation near Exeter Racecourse
With so much to see and do, making a weekend of your trip to Exeter is a great idea. Hotels near Exeter Racecourse are suitable for all budgets, making planning an overnight stay easy.
Budget-friendly Exeter Racecourse hotels include Premier Inn Exeter City Centre, Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel, and Holiday Inn Express Exeter. If you’re looking for a family-friendly option, head to Jury’s Inn Exeter. For a touch of luxury, check into Hotel Du Vin Exeter or Headweir Mill House.
Exeter Racecourse accessibility
Exeter Racecourse offers a range of accessible facilities to guests. These include accessible parking, step-free access at the main entrance, accessible toilets, free tickets for carers and more. Visit the website for more information about accessibility at the racecourse.
