Horse Racing

Horse racing — long woven into Britain's sporting culture — brings together historic tradition, vibrant atmosphere and exceptional athletic performance.

Each fixture has its own personality, from casual summertime meetings to major national showpieces that command widespread interest.

Collectively, these occasions form a remarkable and enduring part of the UK's sporting scene, continuing to engage viewers with their blend of heritage, excitement and memorable moments.

Top UK Events

Royal Ascot

Known worldwide as one of the most distinguished racing events, Royal Ascot unites deep-rooted royal tradition with top-level sporting excellence. This week-long celebration at the renowned Ascot Racecourse blends formal ceremony, iconic fashion and a vibrant summer atmosphere, creating a setting where elite racing meets cultural showcase.

For many — from dedicated racing followers to guests drawn by its social prestige — Royal Ascot embodies a rare combination of heritage, grandeur and high-class competition.

Cheltenham Festival

Recognised as the crown jewel of UK jump racing, the Cheltenham Festival brings four days of exceptional competition to the renowned Cheltenham Racecourse. The meeting draws elite trainers, leading jockeys and world-class horses, all aiming to perform on one of the most prestigious stages in National Hunt racing.

With its combination of challenging races, passionate spectators and deep-rooted tradition, Cheltenham stands as one of the defining events of the jump racing season.

Grand National

Held at the legendary Aintree Racecourse, the Grand National is often regarded as the most recognisable steeplechase on the planet. Its demanding track, towering fences and immense following — both in the UK and abroad — have made it an event with a cultural impact that reaches well beyond traditional racing fans.

Every year, the Grand National turns into a shared national experience, drawing millions of viewers and earning admiration for its scale, unpredictability and long-standing heritage.

UK Horse Racing Calendar 2026 — Table Format

Month	Key Events (UK Horse Racing)
January 2026	New Year's Day Racing – Cheltenham Veterans' Chase Series Final – Sandown Park
February 2026	Betfair Hurdle – Newbury Coral Trophy – Kempton Park
March 2026	Cheltenham Festival (10–13 March) Midlands Grand National – Uttoxeter Imperial Cup – Sandown Park
April 2026	Grand National Festival – Aintree (2–4 April) Scottish Grand National – Ayr Spring Trials – Newbury
May 2026	QIPCO Guineas Festival – Newmarket (2000 & 1000 Guineas) Chester May Festival York Dante Festival London Gold Cup – Newbury
June 2026	Epsom Derby Festival Royal Ascot (16–20 June)
July 2026	Coral-Eclipse – Sandown Park Newmarket July Festival King George Weekend – Ascot
August 2026	Ebor Festival – York Shergar Cup – Ascot
September 2026	St Leger Festival – Doncaster Ayr Gold Cup Festival
October 2026	QIPCO British Champions Day – Ascot Cesarewitch & Cambridgeshire – Newmarket
November 2026	Betfair Chase – Haydock Park The November Meeting – Cheltenham
December 2026	Tingle Creek Chase – Sandown Park Long Walk Hurdle – Ascot King George VI Chase – Kempton Park (26 December)