Get ready for Chester Races
Earlier in the month we enjoyed fabulous jump racing from the most famous Steeplechase in the world – The Grand National. Now attention turns to the flat race season and from May onwards Chester will come alive with racegoers. So as the Roodee racecourse gears up to the start of it’s season we thought we would offer a little guide to making the most of your day at Chester Races.
Chester’s flatracing season starts with the Boodles May festival which will run from 9-11 May with a total of 21 races for thrill-seekers to enjoy over the course of the three days. The Roodee racecourse is the oldest racecourse in the country and is a truly fabulous course, with the Roman walls offering a stunning backdrop to the top quality racing. The race season in Chester then continues in full flow with regular meetings right up until the end of September.
Heading to the Races is a great social occasion and it is the perfect excuse to don your finery, meet up with friends and make a full day of it in this glorious city of ours.
The Dress Code:
Whilst Chester racecourse does not have as strict a dress code as some racecourses, there are still some rules to stick to. Racegoers in the County Long Room and Concourse, as well as in any of the restaurant or hospitality areas, need to wear smart attire. So jackets, collars and ties for the gentlemen and dresses, skirts or smart trouser suits for the ladies. Our top tip for the ladies to make it feel like a really special occasion is to wear a hat!
Where to go after The Races:
Oddfellows
Situated on Lower Bridge Street, Oddfellows boutique hotel and bar offers style with a whimsical edge and a charm all of its own. After the crowds and excitement of The Races, head to Oddfellows’ secret garden to continue the fun. Whatever the weather may throw at you, you can still enjoy Oddfellows’ outdoor space, courtesy of strategically placed canopies and outdoor heaters. So why not book an outdoor heated private booth and relive your winning moments from The Races over a cocktail from The Potting Shed bar.
The Champagne Bar at The Chester Grosvenor
La Brasserie has long been one of the must-go places on Chester’s social scene and 2018 has seen a fresh new look, making it more popular than ever. A new champagne bar, offering an extensive selection of champagnes and cocktails, is the focal point. So grab yourself a bar stool and indulge in a bottle of the sparkly stuff – the perfect end to Races day!
If racing isn’t your thing, don’t despair, the Roodee Chester Racecourse has plenty of other events on throughout the Spring and Summer to tempt you. From International polo in June (the Duke of Cambridge has been known to attend) to Sir Tom Jones wowing fans with his inimitable voice in July, to Chester Racecourse’s Race for Life, there is something on for everyone at the country’s oldest racecourse.
