Unmissable Days Out: Experience the Thrill of Cartmel Races

Cartmel Races Lake District

The Magic of Cartmel Racecourse

The gentle hum of excitement begins hours before the first race at Cartmel Racecourse. Set near Grange-over-Sands in Cumbria, this cherished course is unlike anywhere else in the country. Across nine racing dates each year, visitors from across the UK and further afield are drawn by its welcoming spirit, exhilarating steeplechasing, and the charm of a true countryside festival. Imagine an idyllic morning, the air fresh with anticipation, as gates open at 9am and the promise of a memorable day unfurls before you.

Why Cartmel Races Appeals to Leisure Seekers

For those who appreciate refined leisure, fine food, and the spectacle of National Hunt racing, Cartmel is a jewel in the Lake District’s crown. The tradition runs deep here; the roots of racing at Cartmel may reach as far back as the twelfth century, and its first bank holiday meeting was held in 1856. Today, it blends a timeless sense of occasion with modern comforts, making it equally inviting for regular racegoers and those seeking their first taste of this unique event.

One of the finest aspects of Cartmel Racecourse is its festival atmosphere: far removed from the formality of larger venues, the course provides an up-close experience with the action, whether you’re keen to place a bet or simply enjoy the exhilarating view of powerful horses flying over the jumps—a spectacle always greeted by the collective gasp and applause of the crowd.

Food, Drink, and Finer Things

Days at Cartmel are never dull for the senses. The culinary offering stands out not just regionally but nationally, with local Lake District producers taking centre stage. From hand-stretched pizzas and Korean fried chicken to freshly prepared seafood, there is something here for the most discerning palates. Enthusiasts of fine beverages need not look further: local ales, glasses of fizz, and classic Pimm’s add to the festivities.

Of course, you are free to bring your own picnic, complete with cool boxes and chairs, making it easy to enjoy gourmet treats from neighbouring Cartmel village—renowned as a food lover’s haven. Many visitors seize the opportunity to picnic on the grass, hoping for warm sunshine to complete the scene. No day would be complete without indulging in the iconic Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding, available to take home as the sweetest of souvenirs.

An Event for All Generations

Family groups and gatherings of friends will find Cartmel Races particularly appealing. With a classic funfair, hours of entertainment await younger guests and the young at heart. Entry for under 18s is free (with a handful of exceptions), ensuring the day’s entertainment remains accessible to large family parties as well as couples seeking a grown-up adventure.

Cartmel’s relaxed approach is evident in every detail; guests may bring dogs, set up gazebos (in designated areas), and dress as they please—though dressing up for hospitality areas is a beloved part of the occasion for many. Simple, practical advice governs attire: comfortable footwear for grassy and at times uneven ground, layering for unpredictable weather, and always a touch of personal style.

Packages for Every Taste

Cartmel ensures all preferences and budgets are catered for. Choose from the luxury of a three-course lunch with afternoon tea in the Louis Roederer Restaurant (with panoramic views from the private balcony), explore a more social day with a Course Side ticket for alfresco picnicking, or select a paddock ticket to get close to the parade ring and winning connections.

For those wishing to make their experience even more special, options include reserved picnic benches nestled in the action, private domes in the paddock enclosure, and party tents for larger gatherings. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the designated camping and caravan areas, perfect for extending the Lake District stay.

Tickets range from £23 for Course Admission to £188 for gourmet dining in the Louis Roederer Restaurant, with flexible packages tailored to singles, couples, families, and groups. Annual memberships are also available for those who find themselves enchanted enough to return year after year.

A full overview of packages, pricing, and upcoming fixtures can be found on the official Cartmel Racecourse website—plan your visit, secure your place, and ensure you experience the best of this quintessential Lake District event.

Planning Your Perfect Day

Bringing together nature, excitement, and luxury, a day at Cartmel Races requires little more than thoughtful planning. Arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere as the course comes alive. Allow time to explore Cartmel village, whether to purchase delicacies for your picnic or to savour its charming streets. Prepare for varied weather—suncream, hats, an umbrella, and perhaps even wellies are all worth packing. Remember that while cards are accepted almost everywhere, there is no cash machine on site; the nearest is conveniently located in Cartmel village at Cockles Convenience Store.

If you are arranging a group visit, especially with family or international friends, consider combining your race day with a stay at a luxury property nearby. Retreats such as Thornbeck Manor in Windermere offer a superb base to unwind after a thrilling day, blending sumptuous comfort with the wild beauty of the Lake District National Park. The villa’s modern amenities, from private parking and electric car charging to luxurious bedding and lakeside views, enhance the sense of occasion, creating a seamless partnership between adventure and repose.

The Essence of Racing in the Lake District

What sets Cartmel apart is its sense of community and genuine warmth. The proximity to both spectacular natural scenery and culinary delights, coupled with the rare ability to get close to the racing action, ensures every visit feels personal. Whether you are gathering with friends in a picnic enclosure, raising a toast in the hospitality suite, or enjoying family time at the funfair, there is abundant opportunity to make meaningful memories.

Luxury seekers, nature lovers, and those with a taste for tradition will find Cartmel Races a highlight of the Lake District calendar, an event where the finer things in life are celebrated, and every detail reflects the region’s unique character.

Secure Your Place at Cartmel

Tickets are limited for many race days, especially the most popular fixtures. For those who value leisure and richness of experience, booking early ensures a choice of package and a prime location on this unique and much-loved course. Gather your group, plan your Lake District itinerary, and step into one of Cumbria’s most cherished traditions.

Full details, available packages, and all essential information can be found via the Cartmel Racecourse official website, where you can secure your visit and start planning an unforgettable day.

For an elevated Lake District escape to complement your racing adventure, consider Thornbeck Manor—a haven of luxury and tranquillity in nearby Windermere, designed for those who seek the very best in comfort and style.