Thirsk

Situated in the heart of North Yorkshire, Thirsk is a flat racecourse used for thoroughbred horse racing between April and September. Set between the North Yorkshire Moors and the Yorkshire Dales the racecourse is known for its scenic countryside location and pleasant views from the grandstands. Although Thirsk is a compact course its reputation has increased over the years and today the course is host to high class horses from around the country.

History

The Hambleton area which surrounds Thirsk has a rich racing history, hosting its first recorded race in 1612 on the Hambleton Hills, owned by King James I.

Thirsk Racecourse

The first race to be held in Thirsk itself took place in 1740 although it wasn’t until the development of northern rail links that racing at Thirsk really became popular as a spectator sport. Thirsk’s permanent racecourse opened on Station Road on March 15 1855, on land owned by Squire Frederick Bell with runners of the inaugural race being stabled at inns across the locality. During the 1880s the racecourse attracted national attention when renowned rider, Fred Archer, took part in a race at the course. In 1895, in honour of a visit from Edward VII (then Prince of Wales) the Royal Pavilion, Thirsk’s first grandstand, was built on the course.

Following the First World War when racing was suspended for a decade, the Thirsk Race Company was formed to re-develop racing at the course. With funds raised by the company, the track was re-laid and the Royal Pavilion was replaced with a much larger grandstand. The first race with the new facilities was hosted on 8th August 1924 and, with the exception of the Second World War, when the course was used as an army base, the course has hosted high quality meetings during the spring and summer months ever since.

Races/ Events

Used solely for flat racing, the race track at Thirsk is made up of a straight section and a sharp left-hand circuit which join up 3 furlongs before the finish line. The straight section begins close to Thirsk railway station and covers a distance of six furlongs before the start of the circuit, which itself covers a distance of 1 mile six furlongs.

Thirsk hosts fourteen main meetings between April and September as well as a selection of special events.

The Thomas Lord Stakes: The Thomas Lord Stakes is named in honour of the founder of the Lords cricket ground who was born in Thirsk in 1755.

The Classic Trial Stakes: One of the racecourse’s biggest races, the Classic Trial Stakes is held in April each year and has recently been named a ‘listed race.’

The Thirsk Hunt Cup: Arguably the most notable meeting on Thirsk’s racing calendar, the Thirsk Hunt Cup is a handicap race which takes place every year in May.

Ladies Night: One of the most popular racing events of the year, Ladies Night is held each July. The event includes racing, a fashion show, and a ‘best hat’ competition.

Tickets

Annual membership and individual race tickets can be purchased online or by post at the following prices:

Day Admission

Club Members Enclosure (1 day meeting)

Single: £19
Group of 10 + (per person) £18
Group of 50 + (per person) £16.50
Child (under 16) Free

Club Members Enclosure (2 day meetings)

Single: £35
Group of 10 +: No discount
Group of 50 +: No discount
Child (under 16) Free

Paddock

Single: £13
Group of 10 +: £11
Group of 50 +: £10
Child (under 16) Free

Family Ring

Single: £8
Group of 10 +: £4
Group of 50 +: £3
Child (under 16) Free

Annual Membership

Membership includes admission to all fixtures at Thirsk during the year

Single Membership £140
Associate (Husband and Wife) £225
Guest (One adult + Guest) £250
Junior (17 – 25) £65
Child (Under 16) Free

Contacts

For information about race days or for general enquiries contact:

Thirsk Racecourse Ltd, Thirsk Racecourse, Station Road, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, Y07 1LQ
Tel: 01845 522 276
Fax: 01845 525 353
Email: [email protected]

Travel

Thirsk racecourse can be easily accessed by road or rail.

By Road

From the South: Leave the A1 at the A168, signposted Dishforth. After approximately 6 miles take the B1448 towards Thirsk. At the mini-roundabout turn left past Tesco and the racecourse will soon become visible on the right-hand side.

From the North: From the A1 follow signs for Thirsk entering Thirsk from the A61. After passing the railway station the racecourse will soon become visible on the left-hand side.

By Rail