How to plan a group day out at the races
Thinking of planning a day out at the races? Not sure where to start with the planning? Well, we know a thing or two about planning a smooth-running day at the races. Whether you’re heading there with your family, friends or maybe even on a work outing we’ll help plan a day from start to finish.
When’s the best time to go?
If you have a specific event in mind, like Ascot or Cheltenham, then it’s best to check the dates and time as soon as possible as tickets to big races sell out quick. If you aren’t interested in going to one of the big events, then we recommended looking at the website of your local racecourse for all their upcoming events. Once you’ve worked out when you want to go and where you’re going you can start planning all the other parts.
If you’re not going for a specific event, then choosing a day in the spring or summer will bring warmer days and longer evenings which mean more time to enjoy all the fun that the day brings. Weekends are usually most popular and are when most of the bigger races and events are happening.
Do I need to buy a ticket beforehand?
For the smaller events, you can pay at the door, but it is always better to book your tickets in advance. You can usually get a discount if you’re heading there in a big group so make sure to check before you go.
Having your ticket pre-booked can make things a lot easier and it’s one less thing to think about on the day. Different tickets allow you to access different areas, so depending on where you want to go and what you want to see will determine which ticket you need.
Is there a dress code?
Although dress code changes from place to place, many people choose to dress in smart wear which is considered to be part of the race day experience. Some racecourses have stricter dress codes than others, for full details of all dress codes, check the individual racecourse websites - most of which provide great advice on what to wear for your day at the races.
What time should I arrive?
Race days can get busy! We recommend arriving with plenty of time before the first race, so you have time to grab a drink, find where you want to stand, where to place a bet and where the parade ring is. Gates usually open around two hours before. When you arrive, you can buy a race card, that will list all the runners and riders and when their races are – make sure to remember the number and colours so you can easily spot them.
Organising transport
When planning transport for a day at the races, make sure to check what the racecourse parking is like before you go, as on race days it can get busy. If you’re heading there in a big group or plan on having a drink or two, hiring a minibus is a great option. You won’t have to worry about where to park or who’s the designated driver, you’ll get picked up and dropped off for a fun day at the races.
At Coach Hire Comparison, we have been putting racegoers in direct contact with reliable minibus suppliers for years. So, if you’re looking for transport for the day, we will help you find the best minibus hire that suits all your needs and requirements.
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