Kelso Races are a popular spectator event, with thousands of people flocking to the course each year. The races are held at Kelso Racecourse, a National Hunt and Flat racecourse located in the Scottish Borders. The course is easily accessible from Edinburgh and Newcastle and is a popular destination for horse racing fans from all over the UK. But just how many people attend Kelso Races each year?
History of Kelso Races
Kelso Races have a long and proud history, with the first recorded meeting taking place in 1734. The popularity of the course has grown over the years, with some of the biggest names in racing having competed at Kelso over the centuries. The course itself is one of the most picturesque in Britain, with views of the Cheviot Hills and the River Tweed providing a stunning backdrop to the racing action.
Attendance Figures
Each year, thousands of people flock to Kelso Racecourse to enjoy the racing action. In 2019, the course welcomed over 20,000 visitors, with numbers expected to increase in 2020. This includes both on-course spectators and off-course viewers, with the total attendance figure including people who watch the races on TV or online.
Types of Races
Kelso Races offer a range of race types, with different events taking place throughout the year. These include:
- National Hunt races – These take place over jumps and are the main focus of the Kelso racing calendar.
- Flat races – These take place on the flat, with distances ranging from five furlongs to two miles.
- Point-to-point races – These are amateur races, which are open to all riders.
Special Events
Kelso Racecourse also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, which attract a large number of spectators. These include the Kelso Summer Festival, which takes place in July and features seven races, and the Kelso Ladies Day, which is a popular event for female racing fans. The course also hosts a number of charity days, which are a great way to support local causes while enjoying a day out at the races.
Ticket Prices
Kelso Racecourse offers a range of ticket options, with prices starting from as little as £10. The course offers discounts for group bookings, as well as family and senior tickets. There are also a number of hospitality packages available, which offer an exclusive experience for racegoers.
Getting to Kelso Races
Kelso Racecourse is easily accessible, with the course located just a few miles from the A68. The course is also close to the A1, making it easy for visitors to get to from Edinburgh and Newcastle. There is a car park on-site, with plenty of space for visitors to park their vehicles.
Facilities at Kelso Races
Kelso Racecourse offers a range of facilities, including a restaurant and bar, as well as shops and betting facilities. The course also has a number of grandstands, where visitors can watch the racing action in comfort. There are also a number of TVs located around the course, which provide up-to-date information on the races.
The Future of Kelso Races
Kelso Races is an established and popular event, with attendance figures expected to continue to increase in the coming years. The course is well-known for its friendly atmosphere and is an ideal destination for a day out at the races. With the popularity of the sport increasing, the future of Kelso Races looks bright.
Conclusion
Kelso Races is one of the UK’s most popular spectator events, with over 20,000 people attending each year. The course offers a variety of race types, as well as special events and hospitality packages, making it a great day out for racing fans. With its stunning backdrop and friendly atmosphere, Kelso Races looks set to remain a popular destination for many years to come.