The UK has long been known as a nation of horse racing fans, with its iconic racecourses drawing in millions of visitors each year. With the coronavirus pandemic causing many events to be cancelled or postponed, the question of whether UK racecourses are open to the public has been on everyone’s minds.
What Government Guidelines Are In Place?
The UK government has issued detailed guidelines for the reopening of sports venues and events, including racecourses. These guidelines include:
- Social Distancing: All visitors and staff must adhere to the government-recommended social distancing measures of two metres or one metre with risk mitigation, wherever practicable.
- Capacity Restrictions: The number of people allowed in any area of the racecourse must be limited to ensure social distancing measures can be maintained.
- Face Coverings: All visitors and staff must wear face coverings in all indoor areas, including the parade ring, stands, and betting areas.
- Sanitisation: All areas must be regularly and thoroughly cleaned and sanitised.
What Are Racecourses Doing to Comply With Guidelines?
Racecourses across the UK have been working hard to ensure that their venues meet the government’s guidelines for reopening. Many have introduced additional measures to ensure the safety of visitors and staff, such as:
- Temperature Checks: Many racecourses are conducting temperature checks on all visitors and staff upon arrival.
- Contact Tracing: To ensure that any potential cases of COVID-19 can be traced, racecourses are asking visitors to provide their contact details before entering the venue.
- Cashless Payments: To minimise contact, many racecourses are now only accepting cashless payments, such as debit and credit cards.
- One-Way Systems: To ensure social distancing, many racecourses are introducing one-way systems in areas such as the parade ring and stands.
Are Racecourses Open for Spectators?
The answer to this question is yes, with many racecourses across the UK reopening their doors to the public. However, due to the capacity restrictions put in place, it is essential that visitors book tickets in advance to guarantee entry. Visitors should also check the racecourse’s website before attending, as many are introducing additional protocols such as temperature checks and cashless payments.
What Events are Available?
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many racecourses have had to reduce the number of events they are hosting. Most are now running smaller, less frequent events with a reduced capacity. However, many of the iconic races are still taking place, such as the Grand National, the Epsom Derby, and the Cheltenham Festival.
How Can I Enjoy a Race Meeting Safely?
Whilst racecourses are doing all they can to ensure the safety of their visitors and staff, it is still essential for everyone to adhere to the government guidelines. This means adhering to social distancing measures, wearing a face covering indoors, and following the one-way systems in place.
Visitors should also take extra care when using the betting facilities, only using cashless payments, and regularly sanitising their hands.
What Are the Benefits of Visiting a Racecourse?
Despite the restrictions in place, visiting a racecourse can still be a hugely enjoyable experience. Not only is it a great way to get out and enjoy the fresh air, but it can also be a great chance to relax and have some fun.
For those looking to place a bet, the thrill of the race can be exhilarating, and with a wide range of betting options available, there is something for everyone.
For those looking for an extra special experience, many racecourses are now offering exclusive VIP packages, allowing visitors to enjoy the races from the comfort of their own private box.
What Other Measures Are In Place?
In addition to the measures already outlined, many racecourses are also introducing additional precautions. These include:
- Contactless Refreshments: Many racecourses are introducing contactless refreshment options, such as pre-order takeaway options and contactless kiosks.
- Reduced Capacity: To ensure social distancing, many racecourses are reducing the capacity in their stands and grandstands.
- Additional Staff: To ensure all government guidelines are adhered to, many racecourses are now employing additional staff to monitor the venue.
Are Racecourses Worth Visiting?
Despite the restrictions in place, racecourses are still worth visiting. Not only is it a great way to get out and enjoy the fresh air, but it can also be a great chance to relax and have some fun. With the government’s guidelines in place, visitors can still enjoy the thrill of the races whilst staying safe.
Conclusion
With the UK government’s guidelines in place, many racecourses across the UK are now open to the public. Whilst the number of events and capacity restrictions have been reduced, visitors can still enjoy the thrill of the races whilst staying safe. With many racecourses introducing additional safety measures, such as temperature checks and contactless refreshments, racecourses are still worth visiting for a great day out.