Boxing Day Racing

Boxing Day is one of the biggest days in the UK & Irish horse racing calendar for 2025, offering eleven exciting race meetings. Our team has put together everything you need to know.

Check out the latest Boxing Day betting offers and sign-up deals from trusted online bookmakers. We’ve also analysed the main races and created our top racing tips for this thrilling day. Find all this information in our guide to the best horse racing tips for Boxing Day 2023.

The highlight of Boxing Day is the 2025 Kempton Winter Festival, featuring six fantastic races of national hunt jump racing at Kempton Park Racecourse.

With ten horse racing meetings on the same day, you can watch the action on channels like Racing TV, ITV Racing, and Sky Sports Racing – the races come thick and fast!

In our Boxing Day guide, get the latest betting tips, free bet info, and odds for the horse racing events on December 26, 2023.

Kempton Park Boxing Day Racing

The first day of the Kempton Park Winter Festival, one of the most popular National Hunt racing festivals of the year – is on Boxing Day and called the King George VI Chase Day, named after the big race which has been won by many greats over the years including Kauto Star and the famous grey Desert Orchid.

There are many horse racing events on the 26th December 2025 but Kempton Park is always the most popular

The iconic Kempton races on Boxing Day include:

• 12:45 2m4½f (2m4f110y) Ladbrokes Boost Your Odds On Racing Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 3) (4yo+ 0-135)
• 1.20pm 3m Ladbrokes Kauto Star Novices’ Chase (In Memory Of Nigel Clark) (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) (4yo+)
• 1:55 2m (Winter) Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) (4yo+)
• 2:30 3m Ladbrokes King George VI Chase (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) (4yo+)
• 3:05 2m (Winter) ladbrokeslive.co.uk To Win Free Music Tickets Maiden Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) (4yo+)
• 3:40 2m5f (Winter) Ladbrokes Get Best Odds Guaranteed Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (3yo+ 0-140)

The King George VI Chase is the main event of the Boxing Day racing calendar.

Aintree Boxing Day Racing

Aintree Racecourse will host some brilliant races on Boxing Day 2025.

The first race is scheduled to take place at 11:55 am and the final race is due to take place at 3:25 pm.

Listed below is the schedule for Boxing Day at Aintree Racecourse:

• 11:55 2m4f William Hill Double Your Odds Mares’ Handicap Hurdle (Challenger Mares’ Hurdle Qualifier) (Class 4) (3yo+ 0-120)
• 12:30 2m4f (2m3f200y) (Mildmay) Unibet Middle Distance Series Veterans’ Handicap Chase (Class 2) (10yo+ 0-150)
• 1:05 2m½f (2m103y) William Hill Formby Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) (Formerly Registered As The Tolworth Hurdle) (GBB) (Class 1) (3yo+)
• 1:40 2m4f William Hill Epic Value Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) (4yo+)
• 2:15 3m1f (3m210y) (Mildmay) William Hill Epic Boost Handicap Chase (Class 3) (4yo+ 0-130)
• 2:50 2m4f (2m3f200y) (Mildmay) William Hill Cheltenham NRMB From January 1st Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 3) (4yo+)
• 3:25 2m1f (2m209y) William Hill Stories Open National Hunt Flat Race (Category 1 Elimination) (Series Qualifier) (GBB) (Class 4) (4-5yo)

Wetherby Boxing Day Racing

Wetherby is a stunning racecourse and again December 26 is their biggest racing day of the year, with the Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase serving as the feature event. A top-class and competitive chase hugely popular with locals.

The first race is scheduled for 11.52 am and the last race is at 3.20 pm. Gates open at 10am for those wanting to get their early and soak up the atmosphere.

Wetherby racecourse is one of only two racecourses in the North of England to race on Boxing Day 2025.

This meeting is a really busy day so it is advised that you get there early to avoid traffic and there is complimentary mulled wine and mince pies will keep the early birds warm!

The fixtures list for Wetherby Racecourse is below:

• 11:52 2m3½f (2m3f154y) William Hill Epic Value Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 4) (4yo+)
• 12:27 2m3½f (2m3f85y) William Hill Play Responsibly Novices’ Handicap Chase (Class 5) (4yo+ 0-100)
• 1:00 2m3½f (2m3f154y) William Hill Epic Boost Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 4) (3yo+ 0-110)
• 1:35 3m (3m45y) William Hill Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race) (Class 1) (4yo+)
• 2:10 2m5½f (2m5f56y) William Hill Lengthen Your Odds Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (4yo+ 0-130)
• 2:45 2m3½f (2m3f85y) William Hill Extra Places Every Day Handicap Chase (Class 3) (4yo+ 0-140)
• 3:20 2m William Hill Betting TV Handicap Hurdle (Go North Sea Pigeon Series Qualifier) (Class 4) (3yo+ 0-115)

Follow the links above for our individual race over and tips.

Wolverhampton Boxing Day Racing

Wolverhampton enjoys racing all year round on its all-weather racing track, so it’s no surprise to see it have a Boxing Day fixture.

Why not spend this wonderful bank holiday with Wolverhampton Racecourse? Thanks to their floodlit, all-weather track and a number of cosy hospitality choices you can enjoy the racing whatever the weather.

The fixture list for Wolverhampton is below:

• 1:50 5f (5f21y) Best Odds Guaranteed At BetMGM Nursery Handicap (Class 5) (2yo 0-70)
• 2:25 5f (5f21y) Stay Golden With BetMGM Safer Gambling EBF Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (Class 5) (2yo)
• 3:00 7f (7f36y) Bet £10 Get £40 At BetMGM Handicap (Div I) (Class 6) (3yo+ 0-55)
• 3:35 7f (7f36y) Bet £10 Get £40 At BetMGM Handicap (Div II) (Class 6) (3yo+ 0-55)
• 4:05 7f (7f36y) Win £2,000,000 With BetMGM’s Golden Goals Handicap (Class 2) (3yo+ 0-105)
• 4:35 1m1½f (1m1f104y) BetUK: It’s Where The UK Bets Handicap (Class 3) (3yo+ 0-95)
• 5:05 1m1½f (1m1f104y) Boost Your Acca-Fenwa With BetUK Handicap (Class 6) (3yo+ 0-55)
• 5.35pm 1m4f (1m4f51y) Build Your Acca With BetUK Handicap (Class 5) (3yo+ 0-75)

Follow the links above for our individual race over and tips.

Fontwell Park Boxing Day Racing

Boxing Day Racing at Fontwell racecourse offers a fantastic atmosphere, lots of family entertainment, and seven thrilling horse races as part of its Boxing Day racing programme.

The Fontwell Park boxing day fixtures are listed below:

• 11:57 2m1½f (2m1f162y) Best Racing Odds Guaranteed At BetMGM Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (3yo+ 0-130)
• 12:32 2m3f (2m3f49y) Boost Your Acca At BetMGM Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) (3yo+ 0-100)
• 1:07 2m1½f (2m1f162y) Win £2,000,000 With BetMGM’s Golden Goals Novices’ Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 4) (4yo+)
• 1:42 2m2f (2m1f165y) BetMGM: It’s Showtime Handicap Chase (Class 5) (4yo+ 0-105)
• 2:17 2m1½f (2m1f162y) Bet £10 Get £40 At BetMGM Juvenile Maiden Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 4) (3yo)
• 2:52 3m2f (3m1f210y) BetMGM: Stay Golden With Responsible Play Handicap Chase (Class 4) (4yo+ 0-110)
• 3:27 3m2f (3m1f166y) Set Deposit Limits At BetMGM Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) (3yo+ 0-120)

Follow the links above for our individual race over and tips.

Market Rasen Boxing Day Racing

Families from all across Lincolnshire and beyond have made going to Market Rasen racecourse on Boxing Day after Christmas a tradition in order to get out of the house and spend an exciting holiday day together.

Enjoy seven thrilling jump races, including the famous three-and-a-half-mile Lincolnshire National. Serving as the equivalent of Aintree’s legendary Grand National in Market Rasen.

The Market Rasen fixtures for its Boxing Day racing programme 2025 are below:

• 12:05 2m 1/2f Rand Farm Park Day Handicap Hurdle
• 12:40 2m 1/2f North Lincs Components Limited Novices’ Hurdle
• 1:15 3m Mal & Mo Fox Memorial Vase Novices’ Handicap Chase
• 1:47 2m 5 1/2f Rand Farm Park All Weathers Novices’ Handicap Chase
• 2:22 2m 4 1/2f Rand Farm Park Family Days Out Novices’ Handicap Hurdle
• 2:57 3m 3 1/2f Pallinc Lincolnshire National Handicap Chase
• 3:32 2m 2 1/2f Rand Farm Park Pigs In Blankets Handicap Hurdle

Follow the links above for our individual race over and tips.

Wincanton Boxing Day Racing

On Boxing Day, there is no better place to be than Wincanton racecourse in Somerset. The most favoured and popular event at Wincanton Racecourse, without a doubt!

Visit Wincanton racecourse on Monday, December 26 for a festive day at the races and to continue the holiday celebrations with your family and friends!

The boxing day Wincanton fixtures are listed below:

• 12:18 2m4f Ollie Michael Smith Memorial EBF & Mares’ Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase
• 12:53 2m4f Steelbeams Online mares’ Novices’ Hurdle
• 1:28 3m1f Rodney Francis Chinnock Memorial Lord Stalbridge Cup Handicap Chase
• 2:03 2m4f Somerton Gates & Railing Mid-Season Handicap Chase
• 2:38 1m 7f Steal Beams Steelbeams.Online Boxing Day Handicap Hurdle
• 3:13 3m 1/2f Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle
• 3:45 1m 7f Supporting Southmead Hospital Intensive Care Unit Open National Hunt Flat Race

Follow the links above for our individual race over and tips.

Sedgefield Racing Boxing Day

Many families and friends visit Sedgefield Racecourse on Boxing Day to carry on the Christmas cheer and for a dose of all-weather racing.

What better way to spend your boxing day than at Sedgefield racecourse getting some fresh air and enjoying some flat racing.

• 11:45 2m4f Download The Vickers.Bet App Novices’ Hurdle
• 12:15 2m4f Join The Vickers.Bet Free Bet Club Handicap Hurdle
• 12:50 2m1f Best Odds Guaranteed Daily At Vickers.Bet Handicap Chase (Class 5) (4yo+ 0-100)
• 1:25 2m1f (2m178y) I.W.E. Electrical Services Ltd Maiden Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 4) (4yo+)
• 2:00 2m4f (2m3f188y) Castle Construction NE Ltd. Handicap Hurdle (Go North Cab On Target Series Qualifier) (Class 4) (3yo+ 0-120)
• 2:35 2m3½f (2m3f65y) Vickers.Bet Handicap Chase (Go North Monet’s Garden Series Qualifier) (Class 4) (4yo+ 0-115)
• 3:10 2m1f (2m178y) Gary Wood Memorial Mares’ Open National Hunt Flat Race (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB Race) (Class 5) (4-5yo)

Leopardstown Racing Boxing Day

Leopardstown is a popular racecourse, especially on boxing day with punters enjoying top-quality racing and fresh air!

Boxing Day is a big day for horse racing and is known to carry on the Christmas cheer so make sure you take a visit to Leopardstown racecourse part of your festive plans!

Below are the fixtures for Leopardstown Boxing Day:

• 12pm – 2m TRI Equestrian Maiden Hurdle (4yo)
• 12.35pm 2m Thorntons Recycling Maiden Hurdle (5yo+)
• 1.10pm 2m Mercedes-Benz South Dublin Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 2) (3yo)
• 1.45pm 2m careers@dornangroup.com Novice Handicap Hurdle (4yo+)
• 2:20 2m1f Racing Post Novice Chase (Grade 1) (4yo+)
• 2.55pm 2m1f New Smart View Racecards By Racing Post Handicap Chase (4yo+)
• 3.30pm 2m Race And Stay INH Flat Race (4yo)

Follow the links above for our individual race over and tips. Leopardstown has convenient tote betting facilities on site.

Limerick Racing Boxing Day

A small track that packs a big punch and is lots of fun. Limerick on Boixng Day is a great day out.

Below are the fixtures for Limerick Boxing Day:

• 12:25 – Aqua Process Solutions 3-Y-O Maiden Hurdle (3yo) – 2m
• 12:58 – Signsplus Maiden Hurdle (4yo) – 2m
• 1:33 – Lyons Of Limerick Jaguar Land Rover Novice Hurdle (Grade 2) (4yo+) – 2m7f
• 2:08 – Mr. Binman Mares Handicap Hurdle (4yo+) – 2m4f
• 2:40 – O’Kelly Brothers Demolition Rated Novice Chase (4yo+) – 2m1½f
• 3:15 – BRC McMahon Reinforcements Handicap Chase (4yo+) – 2m1½f
• 3:50 – CJ Sheeran Mares INH Flat Race (4yo+) – 2m

Down Royal Racing Boxing Day

Another great Irish Boxing Day feature, with some competitive races to enjoy. A trip to Down Royal is always worth it.

Below are the fixtures for Down Royal Boxing Day:

• 11:40 – I.N.H. Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle (4yo+) 2m4f
• 12:13 – Connolly’s RED MILLS Irish EBF Auction Maiden Hurdle (4yo+) 2m1f
• 12:48 – Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle (3yo+ 80-102) 2m1f
• 1:23 – Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase (4yo+) 2m4f
• 1:58 – Metcollect Handicap Chase (4yo+ 0-102) 2m4f
• 2:33 – Metcollect Oil Recycling Hunters Chase (5yo+) 3m
• 3:08 – Metcollect Metal Recycling (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race (4yo+) 2m1f

What are the Feature Races on Boxing Day?

Boxing Day, celebrated with an array of exciting races, boasts featured events across prominent racecourses in both the UK and Ireland. In 2023, racing enthusiasts can look forward to iconic contests that showcase the best of jump racing.

Feature Races in the UK:

1. King George VI Chase at Kempton Park: Undoubtedly the crown jewel of Boxing Day racing, the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park is a Grade 1 steeplechase attracting top-tier horses. This historic race, often shaping the national hunt season, unfolds over three miles, testing the mettle of both horse and jockey.
2. Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park: Another standout at Kempton, the Christmas Hurdle, offers a thrilling clash of speed and agility. Run over two miles, this Grade 1 hurdle race gathers some of the finest hurdlers, setting the stage for an exhilarating display of hurdling prowess.

Feature Races in Ireland:

1. Savills Chase at Leopardstown: Across the Irish Sea, Leopardstown Racecourse hosts the prestigious Savills Chase. This Grade 1 steeplechase spans three miles and showcases the prowess of top-class stayers. The race attracts a stellar field, often including some of the best chasers from Ireland and the UK.
2. Paddy’s Rewards Club Chase at Leopardstown: Adding to the excitement, the Paddy’s Rewards Club Chase is another highlight at Leopardstown. A Grade 1 chase, it provides a captivating spectacle over two and a half miles, featuring nimble chasers vying for victory.

These featured races, both in the UK and Ireland, epitomize the essence of Boxing Day racing, offering fans an electrifying blend of tradition, skill, and sheer excitement.

What are the Latest Betting Offers and Promotions for Boxing Day Racing?

As Boxing Day approaches, leading bookmakers are gearing up to offer enticing promotions and special deals for avid racing enthusiasts. Here are some details from specific bookmakers to give you a glimpse of what to expect:

1. Ladbrokes:
   • Ladbrokes, a renowned name in sports betting, is known for its festive promotions. Keep an eye out for enhanced odds, money-back specials, and exclusive free bet offers on selected Boxing Day races. Ladbrokes often tailors promotions to feature races like the King George VI Chase, providing extra value for punters.
2. Bet365:
   • Bet365, a powerhouse in online betting, is likely to roll out comprehensive coverage of Boxing Day races. Look for promotions such as “Best Odds Guaranteed” and exclusive in-play offers. Bet365 frequently enhances its horse racing promotions during major events, offering competitive odds and special deals.
3. William Hill:
   • William Hill traditionally embraces the festive spirit with tailored promotions for Boxing Day racing. Expect to find enhanced odds on featured races, money-back guarantees, and possibly special acca boosts. William Hill often provides a variety of promotions to cater to different types of bets, enhancing the overall betting experience.
4. Betfair:
   • Betfair, known for its innovative approach to betting, may introduce special exchange promotions for Boxing Day racing. Keep an eye on their “Each Way Edge” and potential cashback offers. Betfair is adept at tailoring promotions to major events, allowing punters to explore unique betting opportunities
5. Paddy Power:
   • Paddy Power, with its reputation for creative promotions, is likely to spice up Boxing Day betting. Look for “Power Prices” on select races, enhanced odds, and potentially some amusing festive-themed specials. Paddy Power is known for offering a mix of value and entertainment in its promotions.

Remember, the specific promotions can vary, and it’s advisable to check the official websites of these bookmakers closer to Boxing Day for the latest and most accurate information. Taking advantage of these promotions can add an extra layer of excitement to your Boxing Day racing experience.

Boxing Day Racing Free Bets

Xmas is a great time for free bets and betting offers from some of the best horse racing betting brands online.

Check out our guide to the biggest horse racing free bets on offers in April 2025 for racing Boxing Day offers, some of these can also be used on other popular sporting events such as football, rugby and tennis.

[cta style=green link=”/boxing-day-free-bets/”]Boxing Day Free Bets[/cta]

Many bookmakers are offering some great betting offers this Christmas like:

• Bet 10 get 20 in free bets on horse racing
• Bet 10 get 30 in free bets on horse racing
• Bet 10 get 40 in free bets on horse racing
• Bet 10 get 50 in free bets on horse racing

There are lots of special offers for first-time customers with many sites across a range of racing events.

If you are an existing punter and looking for great promotions for existing customers here are some of the top-rated betting sites offering amazing daily promotions:

• Bookmakers with BOG promotion
• Bookmakers with cash-out feature
• Bookmakers with in-play betting option

Most of the racecourses will also have Tote betting facilities on course and other betting outlets, if you prefer to bet in person and great hospitality packages to take advantage of.

Boxing Day’s Tips

After an expensive Christmas punters are looking to find those Boxing Day NAPs on the horse racing or at the very least get more winners than friends and family!

With one of the most thrilling days of the racing calendar, the horse racing tipsters have plenty of choice with 11 horse racing fixtures across the UK and Ireland.

Check out our full guide to betting tips for Boxing Day racing where we list our best bets and other recommended bets. As usual Paul Nicholls is expected to have a typically strong day at Kempton.

How can I watch Boxing Day racing live?

Boxing Day racing enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the action through live broadcasts on esteemed channels like Racing TV, ITV Racing, and Sky Sports Racing. Additionally, many leading bookmakers offer live streaming services for registered account holders, providing a seamless way to witness the excitement unfold on the tracks. To ensure you don’t miss a moment, check with your preferred platform or bookmaker for specific details on accessing the live coverage tailored for Boxing Day racing.

Summary of Boxing Day Racing

Boxing Day racing is a tradition enjoyed by many every year. A perfect day to unwind and watch some quality action live on TV or get some fresh air if you are watching in person. As you can see there are lots of racing events to enjoy.

Boxing day racing really is some of the best in the world and only second to the Cheltenham Festival and Aintree Festival.

We have highlighted some special offers if you are looking for a new bookie this Christmas, read our full reviews or check them out for yourself.

Have a fantastic afternoon of Boxing Day racing, we hope you find a winner or two.

Please gamble responsibly.