Newcastle Racecourse

As far as racecourses go, the setting can't get much more regal than the location of Newcastle Racecourse. This gorgeous horse racing venue is located on the Gosforth Park Estate, a property of 812 acres, where it holds 30 race meetings every year. Only three miles north of the city of Newcastle, this course blends urban convenience with old-world country charms.

Map To Newcastle Racecourse

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Address: High Gosforth Park, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne NE3 5HP
Phone: 0191 236 2020

History Of Newcastle Racecourse

Although horse racing was a popular and widely practised sport in the North East since the early 17th century, it wasn't until 1882 that Newcastle Racecourse was officially opened. Until the induction of this new venue, races were staged mainly at the Town Moor, including the Northumberland Plate, which was first recorded in 1833.

However, the first running of the Northumberland Plate at Gosforth Park in 1882 introduced the crowds to the pleasures of a brand new flat and chase course, as well as a new stand and top-of-the-range stable facilities.

In the 120 years of service to the racing industry, Newcastle Racecourse has taken its fair share of knocks, being left active but without much maintenance work for a long period before being 'rescued' by Sir Stanley Clarke's Northern Racing. Since this take over, Newcastle has received repairs and renovations of an excess of £11 million; which is why it can offer any racing comfort imaginable to the crowds that still come a-flocking.

Notable Races At Newcastle Racecourse

Flat Races:

Chipchase Stakes: this Group 3 sprint (7 furlongs) is open to thoroughbreds aged three and older.
Northumberland Plate: This iconic race, which is the signature event of Newcastle Racecourse, is open to thoroughbreds aged three and above and is conducted over a distance of 2 miles and 19 yards. Locals may refer to this race as 'Pitman's Derby', referring to the racing holiday awarded to the miners in the area at the time the race was established.

National Hunt Races:

Fighting Fifth Hurdle: this neat 2 mile hurdling event is open to horses aged four and over, and takes place annually in late November or early December.
Eider Chase: open to horses aged four or older, this is a gruelling 4 mile and 1 furlong steeple chase event, featuring some of the most notorious fences in the North-East. It is considered a Trial for the John Smiths Grand National at Aintree.

How To Get To Newcastle Racecourse

Note: There is a shuttle bus to the track available from Regent Centre Station, which can be reached via the Newcastle Metro train from Newcastle Central Station.

Alternatively:

Whatever you do, don't forget to follow the brown signs depicting a horse and rider. They will lead you to the racecourse from the A1, A19 and all other major roads leading towards Newcastle.
There is free parking.

Newcastle Racecourse Facilities

Private Boxes: Newcastle Racecourse offers a range of private boxes seating 6-36 people. All boxes overlook the track and can be booked with a choice of two hospitality packages, Gold or Platinum, which include beverages, multiple course menus and much more.

Carvery Package: This affordable hospitality package includes admission to the Premier enclosure, a three course carvery lunch and a racecard at £55 + VAT.