Britain is home to some of the most historic and prestigious racecourses in the world.
While the quality of the racing often attracts the headlines, many racegoers would argue that the setting is just as important. A spectacular backdrop, rolling countryside, dramatic coastline or historic surroundings can transform an ordinary race day into something truly memorable.
From racecourses perched above the sea to venues surrounded by national parks and historic landscapes, Britain offers racing experiences that rival some of the country’s most famous tourist attractions.
Beauty is, of course, subjective. However, certain racecourses consistently appear on lists of the most picturesque venues in the sport.
Whether you’re planning a racing holiday, a weekend break or simply looking for somewhere new to visit, these racecourses deserve serious consideration.
What Makes a Racecourse Beautiful?
Several factors contribute to a racecourse’s visual appeal.
These can include:
- Natural scenery
- Historic architecture
- Countryside views
- Coastal settings
- Course layout
- Landscaped grounds
- Surrounding attractions
Some racecourses benefit from dramatic geography, while others owe their appeal to centuries of history and tradition.
If you’re planning a racing trip, you may also enjoy:
The Best Racecourses for a Weekend Break in Britain
You can browse all British racecourses here:
1. Goodwood Racecourse
If there is one racecourse that regularly tops discussions about beauty, it is Goodwood.
Located in the South Downs National Park, Goodwood enjoys breathtaking views across the Sussex countryside and towards the English Channel.
On a clear day, the scenery can be spectacular.
Why Goodwood Tops the List
- South Downs location
- Panoramic countryside views
- Beautiful grandstands
- Historic atmosphere
- Outstanding summer racing
Visitors often find themselves spending almost as much time admiring the scenery as watching the racing.
The racecourse is particularly impressive during Glorious Goodwood, one of the highlights of the Flat racing calendar.
Racecourse guide:
Festival guide:
2. Cartmel Racecourse
Cartmel offers one of the most unique race-day settings in Britain.
Located within the Lake District, the racecourse is surrounded by stunning countryside and sits close to one of the country’s most popular national parks.
Why Visitors Love Cartmel
- Lake District scenery
- Village location
- Festival atmosphere
- Historic surroundings
- Relaxed environment
The combination of racing, scenery and local hospitality makes Cartmel a favourite among many experienced racegoers.
Racecourse guide:
For visitor information about the region:
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The Most Underrated Racecourses in Britain
3. Perth Racecourse
Perth is often overlooked in discussions about Britain’s most attractive racecourses.
That is surprising given its beautiful Scottish setting.
What Makes Perth Special?
- Woodland surroundings
- Open countryside views
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Excellent facilities
The racecourse combines scenic beauty with a friendly atmosphere that makes visitors feel welcome from the moment they arrive.
Racecourse guide:
4. Hexham Racecourse
Few racecourses can match Hexham when it comes to dramatic scenery.
Situated high above the surrounding landscape, the venue offers some of the finest views in British racing.
Why Hexham Stands Out
- Elevated location
- Spectacular countryside views
- Traditional atmosphere
- Distinctive course layout
The setting alone makes Hexham worth visiting.
Racecourse guide:
Those who enjoy discovering lesser-known venues may also enjoy:
The Most Underrated Racecourses in Britain
5. Chester Racecourse
Beauty is not always about countryside views.
Chester offers something completely different.
The racecourse sits within one of Britain’s most attractive historic cities and combines racing with centuries of architectural heritage.
Highlights
- Roman city setting
- Historic city walls nearby
- Riverside location
- Compact racecourse layout
The combination of racing and tourism makes Chester one of Britain’s most appealing race-day destinations.
Racecourse guide:
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6. Musselburgh Racecourse
Situated near the Scottish coastline and within easy reach of Edinburgh, Musselburgh offers an attractive blend of racing and location.
Why It Makes The List
- Coastal influences
- Excellent facilities
- Accessibility
- Attractive surroundings
Visitors can easily combine a race day with a city break in Edinburgh.
Racecourse guide:
7. Ayr Racecourse
Ayr combines quality racing with one of Scotland’s most attractive coastal regions.
The nearby coastline and surrounding landscapes help create a memorable visitor experience.
Why Ayr Deserves Recognition
- Coastal location
- Strong racing calendar
- Beautiful surrounding region
- Easy access to tourist attractions
Racecourse guide:
For Scottish travel inspiration:
8. Ffos Las Racecourse
Ffos Las may be one of Britain’s newer racecourses, but it has quickly developed a reputation for its attractive setting.
Why Visitors Enjoy Ffos Las
- Welsh countryside location
- Open landscapes
- Modern facilities
- Spacious layout
The racecourse offers a different experience from many older venues and showcases the beauty of rural Wales.
Racecourse guide:
For tourism information:
9. York Racecourse
York combines beautiful racing facilities with one of Britain’s most attractive historic cities.
The racecourse itself is exceptionally well maintained and provides an elegant setting for some of the country’s biggest races.
Why York Is So Popular
- Beautiful grounds
- Historic surroundings
- Excellent facilities
- World-class racing
Visitors often combine a race day with a wider exploration of the city.
Racecourse guide:
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10. Cheltenham Racecourse
Cheltenham’s location at the edge of the Cotswolds helps make it one of the most attractive racecourses in Britain.
The surrounding countryside provides a fitting backdrop for some of jump racing’s greatest moments.
What Makes Cheltenham Beautiful?
- Cotswolds scenery
- Historic racing traditions
- Outstanding views
- Prestigious atmosphere
Racecourse guide:
National Hunt guide:
The Top 10 Most Beautiful Racecourses
| Rank | Racecourse | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goodwood | South Downs views |
| 2 | Cartmel | Lake District setting |
| 3 | Perth | Scottish countryside |
| 4 | Hexham | Elevated location |
| 5 | Chester | Historic city setting |
| 6 | Musselburgh | Coastal atmosphere |
| 7 | Ayr | Scottish coastline |
| 8 | Ffos Las | Welsh countryside |
| 9 | York | Elegant racecourse grounds |
| 10 | Cheltenham | Cotswolds backdrop |
Why Scenic Racecourses Create Better Experiences
A beautiful setting can transform a race day.
Many racegoers now view racing as part of a broader leisure experience that includes:
- Travel
- Food
- Hospitality
- Sightseeing
- Photography
The racecourse becomes more than a sporting venue.
It becomes a destination.
If you’re planning a trip, you may also enjoy:
The Best Racecourses for a Weekend Break in Britain
and
The Best British Racecourses You Can Reach by Train
Tips for Visiting Scenic Racecourses
Arrive Early
Many of Britain’s most beautiful racecourses deserve time to explore before the first race.
Bring a Camera
Several venues offer outstanding photographic opportunities.
Consider an Overnight Stay
Many scenic racecourses are located in regions worth exploring beyond race day.
Check the Weather
Scenery often looks even more impressive on a clear day.
The Met Office provides race-day weather forecasts across Britain:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most beautiful racecourse in Britain?
Goodwood is frequently regarded as Britain’s most beautiful racecourse thanks to its South Downs location and panoramic views.
Which racecourse has the best countryside scenery?
Cartmel, Hexham and Perth are all strong contenders.
What is the most scenic racecourse in Scotland?
Perth and Ayr are among Scotland’s most visually impressive racecourses.
Which racecourse offers the best combination of racing and scenery?
Goodwood and Cheltenham are often mentioned due to their combination of top-class racing and beautiful surroundings.
Are scenic racecourses suitable for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. Many provide a relaxed atmosphere and excellent facilities.
For newcomers, our article Best Racecourses for First-Time Visitors may also be helpful.
Continue Exploring British Racing
You may also enjoy:
- The Most Underrated Racecourses in Britain
- The Best Racecourses for a Weekend Break in Britain
- The Best British Racecourses You Can Reach by Train
- How to Plan the Perfect Day at the Races
- Best Racecourses for First-Time Visitors
- The Best Racecourses for Food and Drink in Britain
- Most Scenic and Historic Racecourses in the UK
Together, these guides will help you discover some of Britain’s finest racing venues and plan memorable race-day experiences.
Final Thoughts
Britain’s racecourses offer far more than world-class horse racing.
Many are located in some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes, combining sport, scenery and history in a way that few other venues can match.
Whether you prefer the rolling hills of Goodwood, the lakeside charm of Cartmel, the dramatic views at Hexham or the elegance of York, there is no shortage of spectacular racecourses to explore.
For racing fans and travellers alike, these venues demonstrate that some of Britain’s finest views can be found at the races.
