A strictly Flat racing only racecourse, Windsor stages 26 meetings between April and October every year. There are a number of special treats involved in visiting this very special racecourse; starting with the journey to the track. As Windsor Racecourse is located on an island between the main channel of the River Thames and the Clewer Mill Stream backwater, you can approach the course via the water, taking in the scenery as you cross over. The course also offers regular peaks at the efforts of local trainers Richard Hannon and Brian Meehan, whose charges can be admired on the track frequently.
Address: Royal Windsor Racecourse, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 5JJ
Phone: 01753 864 076
While the first official race meeting at Windsor was recorded in 1866, the racing had been celebrated as a favourite past-time since the days of Henry VIII. Since the inaugural Race almost 150 years ago, the course has steadily supplied its visitors with excellent racing and flawless hospitality.
In 1926, the bookmakers of Windsor were the leading forces in the protest against Churchill's attempt to impose a betting levy. Their refusal was so adamant and infectious that the proposition had to be abandoned, as the bookmakers simply ignored it completely. Ironically, Churchill's own horse, Colonist II, raced to glory when it won the Lime Tree Stakes at Windsor 23 years later, much to the gentleman's delight.
Other great fixtures at the Windsor Racecourse include:
Note: Windsor Central Station and Windsor and Eton Station are close to the track. While there is no free shuttle, we recommend you take a short walk from either Eton or Windsor Station to the water and take a river taxi. It may not be that cheap, but it is lots of fun and looks cool.
Alternatively:
The racecourse is located on the A308 between Windsor and Maidenhead. From West: take the M4 and leave at Junction 8/9 towards Maidenhead; from South: leave the M3 at Junction 3 towards Woking, Bracknell and Lightwater; from North and East: take the M25, leave at Junction 15 to join the M4 westbound, leave M4 at Junction 6 towards Slough Central, Windsor and Eton.
Castle Restaurant: The restaurant overlooks the track and river, offering some of the most beautiful views available at British racecourses. It has a choice of two hospitality packages starting from £77.50, which include a three course meal and coffee, a club enclosure ticket, a racecard and free parking.
The Club Restaurant: For a slightly more low key meal in the heart of the Victorian Grandstand, the Club Restaurant offers packages from £52.50. They include the same perks as the packages mentioned above, only on a slightly less elaborate scale and without the great views. However, the Club Restaurant in walking distance from the finishing line and winning post, putting you right in the heart of the action.
Blues & Royals Seafood Restaurant: If you have no patience for elaborate packages, a table at the Blues & Royals is the right choice for you. While the food selection is excellent and the quality outstanding, this is a much more casual venue than the other hospitality options at Windsor. Stop by for a bit of ocean goodness and a glass of wine, then be off to enjoy the bustle of the track.