Here’s a fun fact for you: horse racing is the second most popular spectator sport in the UK! And, we’re particularly lucky in East Anglia to have, not one, but two of the best racecourses in the country within easy reach! Huntingdon Racecourse (part of The Jockey Club) is one of the country’s leading small tracks and stages 18 jump fixtures each year, all of which are fabulous days out. Horses have been racing here since 1886 and it’s developed a reputation as being an excellent training ground for novice horses – this is where you might see the next Cheltenham Gold Cup winner and non other than legendary Desert Orchid has raced around Huntingdon’s course!

The season runs from October to May and the highlight of the year is the prestigious Peterborough Chase, run a fortnight before Christmas, a contest with history and heritage having attracted some of the racing greats over the years. By far the most popular day of the year is the traditional Boxing Day meeting when the crowds arrive in their thousands for a festive day out at the races.

If you’re wanting to make a day of it The Peterborough Chase Restaurant offers fine dining, while on the biggest racing days you can bring your own picnic. There’s a Champagne & Seafood Bar, Lentons Bar and the Hurdles Bistro too, so you’ll not go hungry when you’re cheering on the horses. Bank Holiday and Sunday meetings are particularly good fun for the family and the racecourse plans heaps of entertainment for the kids – under 18s go in free. Discounts are available for 18-24s and senior citizens too.

Huntingdon, isn’t just a racecourse though. There are conference and events facilities that can be used all year round when the horses aren’t racing. It’s also a unique option for a one-of-a-kind wedding. Shows and exhibitions taking advantage of the convenient location are hosted here as well.