One of the great advantages of British horse racing is how accessible many racecourses are by public transport.
While some venues are located in rural settings and require a car journey, many of Britain’s most popular racecourses can be reached easily by train. In several cases, the railway station is just a short walk from the entrance.
Travelling by train can remove the stress of driving, parking and traffic while making it easier to enjoy a full day at the races.
Whether you’re planning your first race meeting or looking for a convenient day out, these racecourses offer some of the best rail connections in British racing.
Why Travel to the Races by Train?
Many racegoers now choose rail travel for practical reasons.
Benefits include:
- No parking fees
- No traffic congestion
- Direct access to city centres
- Easier group travel
- Greater flexibility on race days
For major events such as Royal Ascot, the Cheltenham Festival and the Grand National Festival, public transport is often the easiest option.
National Rail provides journey planning and rail travel information across Britain:
1. Ascot Racecourse
Few racecourses are better connected than Ascot.
Ascot railway station sits only a short walk from the racecourse entrance, making it one of the easiest venues to reach by train.
The station benefits from regular services from London Waterloo and Reading.
For visitors attending Royal Ascot, rail travel is often the preferred option due to high demand for parking.
Racecourse guide:
Festival guide:
Distance from Station
Approximately 10 minutes on foot.
2. York Racecourse
York combines excellent racing with outstanding transport links.
Visitors arriving by train can reach York from many major cities, including London, Edinburgh, Manchester and Newcastle.
Although the racecourse is not immediately beside the station, it is easily accessible via taxi, bus or a pleasant walk through the city.
Racecourse guide:
Distance from Station
Approximately 20 to 30 minutes on foot.
3. Chester Racecourse
Chester is one of Britain’s most convenient racecourses for rail travellers.
The city-centre location means visitors can arrive by train and quickly reach the racecourse without needing additional transport.
The historic setting adds to the appeal, making Chester a popular destination for weekend visitors.
Racecourse guide:
Distance from Station
Approximately 15 minutes on foot.
4. Aintree Racecourse
Aintree benefits from one of the best transport arrangements in British racing.
The racecourse has its own railway station, Aintree Station, located directly opposite the venue.
During the Grand National Festival, thousands of racegoers arrive by train each day.
Racecourse guide:
Festival guide:
Distance from Station
Less than five minutes on foot.
5. Newmarket Racecourses
Newmarket remains one of the most important destinations in British racing.
Although visitors typically arrive via Newmarket railway station rather than directly at the racecourse, transport links remain excellent.
The town itself is deeply connected to racing history and makes an excellent destination for a racing weekend.
Racecourse guide:
Distance from Station
Short taxi journey.
6. Goodwood Racecourse
Goodwood is one of Britain’s most scenic racecourses.
Most rail travellers arrive via Chichester station before taking shuttle transport or taxis to the racecourse.
The extra journey is well worth it thanks to Goodwood’s spectacular South Downs setting.
Racecourse guide:
Festival guide:
Distance from Station
Approximately 15 minutes by taxi.
7. Kempton Park Racecourse
Kempton Park offers one of the most unique transport arrangements in British racing.
Kempton Park railway station sits immediately adjacent to the racecourse.
For London-based racegoers, few venues are easier to reach.
Racecourse guide:
Distance from Station
Less than two minutes on foot.
8. Sandown Park Racecourse
Sandown Park enjoys excellent rail access from London.
Esher station is located within easy walking distance of the course and provides regular services into the capital.
This accessibility has helped make Sandown one of the country’s most popular racecourses.
Racecourse guide:
Distance from Station
Approximately 10 minutes on foot.
9. Doncaster Racecourse
Doncaster combines strong transport links with a busy racing calendar.
Visitors can reach Doncaster station from many parts of the country before completing a short onward journey to the racecourse.
Racecourse guide:
Distance from Station
Approximately 20 minutes on foot.
10. Cheltenham Racecourse
Cheltenham is one of the most famous venues in National Hunt racing.
While the racecourse does not have its own station, Cheltenham Spa provides excellent rail links from across Britain.
During the Cheltenham Festival, dedicated transport services help move racegoers between the station and racecourse.
Racecourse guide:
National Hunt overview:
Distance from Station
Short shuttle or taxi journey.
Best Racecourses for Train Travel
| Racecourse | Walk From Station | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Kempton Park | 2 mins | Excellent |
| Aintree | 5 mins | Excellent |
| Ascot | 10 mins | Excellent |
| Sandown | 10 mins | Excellent |
| Chester | 15 mins | Very Good |
| York | 20-30 mins | Good |
| Doncaster | 20 mins | Good |
| Cheltenham | Shuttle Required | Good |
| Goodwood | Taxi Required | Moderate |
| Newmarket | Taxi Required | Moderate |
Tips for Travelling to Racecourses by Train
Book Early
Major race meetings often generate high demand for rail services.
Advance booking can reduce costs significantly.
Check Engineering Works
Weekend fixtures occasionally coincide with engineering works.
Always check rail schedules before travelling.
National Rail journey planning can help:
Allow Extra Time
Major festivals can create queues at stations and racecourse entrances.
Arriving early usually leads to a more relaxed experience.
Review Dress Codes
If you’re travelling directly from work or a hotel, check dress requirements beforehand.
You may find our article useful:
Planning Your First Race Day
If you’re attending your first race meeting, these articles may help:
- Best Racecourses for First-Time Visitors
- How to Read a Racecard
- Horse Racing Terms Explained
- What Does the Going Mean in Horse Racing?
Together they provide an excellent introduction to the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which racecourse has its own train station?
Aintree and Kempton Park are among the most notable examples where the station sits immediately beside the racecourse.
Is Ascot easy to reach by train?
Yes. Ascot station is within walking distance of the racecourse and offers excellent connections.
What is the easiest racecourse to reach from London?
Kempton Park, Ascot and Sandown are among the most convenient options.
Can you visit Cheltenham Racecourse by train?
Yes. Cheltenham Spa station provides rail access, with onward transport available to the racecourse.
Continue Exploring British Racing
You may also enjoy:
- Best Racecourses for First-Time Visitors
- Top Ten Racecourses
- Most Scenic and Historic Racecourses in the UK
- What To Wear At The Races
- How to Read a Racecard
These articles will help you plan an enjoyable day at the races and discover some of Britain’s most iconic racing venues.
Final Thoughts
Travelling to the races by train is often one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to experience British racing.
Many of the country’s best-loved venues offer excellent rail connections, allowing visitors to focus on the racing rather than the journey.
Whether you’re heading to Ascot, York, Chester, Aintree or Cheltenham, public transport can make race day easier, more convenient and often more enjoyable.
With a little planning, some of Britain’s greatest racecourses are only a train ride away.
