FAQs
Questions that you might have…
- Which Enclosure should I choose?
- Bath Racecourse has three Enclosures on a Race-day, the Premier Enclosure, the Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure and the Centre Course Enclosure.
The Premier Enclosure has the prime viewing position on the racecourse adjacent to the winning line and has the most comprehensive facilities. You have full access to all public areas of the course including the Parade Ring and Winners' Enclosure, plus exclusive use of the Premier Bar and Restaurant. We recommend restaurant reservations prior to each meeting to avoid disappointment. Tables can be booked via the Racecourse Office, on 01225 424609.
The Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure has an excellent viewing area with seating and a variety of catering and bar outlets. There is also access to the Bookmakers, the Parade ring and the Winners enclosure.
The Centre Course Enclosure is a popular choice for families with acres of picnic space and the option of parking within the enclosure. There is a bar which serves snacks and provides betting facilities. - How do I book tickets?
- Tickets and admission packages can either be booked online or by calling the Racecourse Office on 01225 424609. Although it is not compulsory to book in advance, we do recommend it - all tickets are sent well in advance along with Racecourse information so all you have to do on the day is have fun!
- What are the advantages of booking an all-inclusive package?
- All-inclusive packages are great value for money and are ideal for the novice racegoer who would like all elements of their day at the races included in one easy step. Our Classic Racecday package incorporates an exclusive behind-the-scenes-tour of the Racecourse and your guide will be able to answer any questions.
- What discounts do you offer to groups?
- Horseracing is the perfect event to enjoy with family and friends, therefore when you book over 15 places to the Premier Enclosure or the Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure there is a 20% reduction.
- Is Bath Racecourse suitable for children and families?
- Families are welcome at Race Meetings, with children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult. We will be holding two Family Fundays in 2009; the first will be held on Sunday 31st May and the second will be on Sunday 16th August. There will be a variety of children’s entertainment and attractions to appeal to all ages – from face painting to fairground rides.
- Are there facilities for people with disabilities?
- Bath Racecourse aims to provide an accessible environment for all our racegoers, including those with disabilities. Disabled customers pay the standard full admission price, for whichever enclosure they choose to enter. For those disabled customers dependent on a carer to help them during a race meeting, their carer is admitted free of charge.
All Wheelchair users have access to a viewing platform to watch the racing which is situated within the Premier enclosure. Please note: Only the wheelchair user and one carer have access to the viewing platform, the rest of the party are only entitled access to the enclosure which they purchased their tickets for.
There is designated disabled parking, in close proximity to the main entrance - please advise the stewards on arrival that you are a disables badge holder. Disabled toilets are available in both the Premier and Grandstand enclosures. There is lift access to the Premier Bar and Silks restaurant.
If booking Hospitality please check with member of staff for details regarding accessibility. If you have any queries regarding the accessibility of the racecourse, or if you are disabled and would require special assistance in the event of any emergency evacuation, please telephone the office in advance of your visit on 01225 424609 . - Is there a dress code?
- The dress code policy in the Premier Enclosure is 'Smart-Casual' - this means no jog bottoms, casual shorts (tailored shorts are acceptable) football/rugby shirts, skimpy tops, or trainers. Smart jeans are acceptable.
On our feature Race-days race-goers do enjoy dressing smartly for the occasion and many Ladies wear hats - which although is not obligatory is still great fun! - Can I bring my dog to the Racecourse?
- With the exception of Guide Dogs of the Blind, dogs are only permitted in the main car park and must be kept on leads and secured to the vehicle at all times.
- Can I bring a picnic?
- Picnics are allowed in the Centre Course Enclosure or in the main car parks before, after or during racing. However, please note that you cannot bring food and drink into any of the racecourse enclosures.
- Do I have to pay for parking?
- Parking is included with all admission badges.
- Can I bring a coach?
- Coach parties are always welcome to Bath Racecourse and we do offer a host of benefits - with free parking for all coaches and free entrance for all coach drivers!
- Can I transfer between enclosures?
- You can upgrade your Grandstand & Paddock ticket to gain access to the Premier Enclosure for £5 on the day of racing only.
- Where can I get food and drink?
- Both the Grandstand and Paddock and Premier Enclosures have a wide range of catering facilities and bars offering a variety of hot and cold food including burgers, fish and chips, hot dogs, curries, hog roast, sandwiches, snacks, cakes and beverages.
Within the Premier Enclosure, Silks Restaurant serves a delightful 3 course meal (please see menus for choice and prices) Reservations can be made through calling the Racecourse Office. - Is there seating available?
- There is limited seating available throughout the Racecourse on a first come first served bases! There is a Champagne Lawn in the premier enclosure with seating and other grassed areas also have benches available for you to enjoy a glass of Pimms on a warm summers day! There is also limited seating at the top of the Grandstand for you to view the racing action although most people tend to stand when cheering their horses home!
- Does the weather affect the Racing?
- The two main weather conditions that affect the racing are fog and frost. Rain is not a factor as there are plenty of covered areas around the Racecourse which provide shelter in the event of rain. Contact the Racecourse office 01225 424609 or check the website for information on current weather conditions.
In the event of a race being abandoned before the first race, a full refund will be made. If the meeting is abandoned after the first race but before the third, a 50% refund will be made in the same manner as a full refund. If the meeting is abandoned after the third race, no refund will be made.
Customers must retain their badges, which are date stamped and numbered, in order to obtain a refund. They must be presented or sent by personal application to the Racecourse Office two days after the meeting.
- Where can I obtain more information on Racedays?
- The race programme is a useful tool to guide you through your day at the races, with details about each race and other helpful information. Programmes are sold at the Racecourse Entrance.
There is also an Information Desk located in the Racecourse office next to the main entrance if you require further leaflets or have an additional query. Alternatively please approach any member of staff who will be happy to assist you. - How do I get to the Racecourse from Bath Spa Railway Station?
- There is a bus service provided by 'First' bus company which runs every half an hour throughout the day starting 2 hours before the first race. The service number is 22 and it picks up from Dorchester Street. For more information, please call 0845 606 4446.
