I haven’t been to lots of racecourses. In fact, I can probably count them on one hand. Huntindon, Kempton (when it was still turf), Leicester, Fakenham and Yarmouth.
At least one of those resides at the seaside.
Great Yarmouth –
Situated on the Norfolk coast, looking over the North Sea. A few wind turbines, miles of sand, much covered with marram grass, a couple of piers, plenty of pubs and umpteen ice cream stalls. If you want a decent days racing then not only do you have a fantastic venue but you’re at the seaside so you win twice. Great Yarmouth racecourse dates back to 1715. However, it moved to its present North Denes site in 1920. This left-handed course, with a mile straight, has a circuit of one mile five furlongs. It is used for Flat racing only. The most valuable race is the John Musker Fillies Stakes, a Listed race over one and a quarter miles which takes place in September. The three-day Eastern Festival is very popular, especially Ladies Day on the Thursday.
Thinking about it, how many racecourses sit on the coastline?
Here are a few more to take a closer look.
Bath –
Bath in Somerset. A city with a distinguished Roman history. This picturesque and elegant Flat racing course is the only location not to have its own watering system so ground conditions can be very firm when the sun shines. This left-handed oval track of just over one mile and four furlongs. It is the highest Flat racecourse in the country, some 238 metres above sea level. Racing dates back to 1728.
Brighton –
Enjoy the seaside atmosphere at Brighton. This course is known for its sharp bends and undulations. It originates back to 1783 and about one mile from the coastline. It hosts Flat racing from April – October. This left-handed course is unusual because it isn’t a full circuit, more of a horseshoe shape, one and half miles in length. It features an uphill finish. It has been attended by the great and the good including royalty.
Redcar –
I was surprised to learn Redcar was situated on the coast. Never travelled too far North (North Yorkshire) so that’s the reason for my lacking. In fact, back in the day, the horse races took part on the beach. However, the racecourse was built in 1872. This left-handed oval course just over one mile and four furlongs. Notable races include The Zetland Cup and Two Year Old Trophy.
Musselburgh –
Musselburgh is situated in East Lothian, Scotland. The second biggest racecourse in Scotland (behind Ayr). It used to be referred to Edinburgh Racecourse until 1996. The course features Flat and National Hunt racing. The racecourse dates back to 1816. It is close to the sea and also the Firth Of Forth, which is a large coastal inlet and opens into the North Sea.
Ireland features racecourses situated by the sea including Tramore, Wexford and Laytown, which sees races take part on the beach County Meath on the Irish Sea coast. A truly spectacular venue and distinctive racecourse.