Ludlow Racecourse

Widely regarded as Britain's friendliest racecourse, Ludlow racecourse is a thoroughbred horse racing venue situated in the midst of the South Shropshire countryside, which hosts sixteen National Hunt races throughout the year.

History

Legend has it that fourteenth century soldiers came to Ludlow racecourse from Ludlow Castle to practice archery and to match their horses against each other. However, no record exists of racing at the site until the mid-eighteenth century when the first official race is known to have been hosted on August 27 1729. For many years the racecourse hosted flat races, and the original flat course is still used as part of the race today.

Ludlow Racecourse

During the nineteenth century hurdles were added to the course and today it exists solely for National Hunt racing. As transport links developed, racing at Ludlow increased in popularity and in the early twentieth century it was a key part of Edwardian life. In recent years facilities at the course have developed to include hospitality boxes, restaurants and panoramic viewing but it still retains the friendly club atmosphere and Edwardian charm of days gone by.

The Course

Ludlow racecourse is a National Hunt course with a chase track and a hurdles track. The chase track is flat with sharp bends covering a distance of one mile four furlongs. The hurdles track is slightly undulating but has easier bends and covers 150 yards more than the chase track.

Races and Events

Ludlow hosts sixteen National Hunt meetings throughout the year (mostly mid-week) from January to May and October to December. Of particular note are the spring fixtures when there is top quality racing plus a bouncy castle and entertainment for all the family. Most of the races are named after sponsors of the course and uniquely the club offers racing fans the chance to pay a fee to have a jump race named in their honour. To generate income the course is also a popular venue for antique fairs, conferences and wedding receptions.

Tickets

Tickets can be pre-ordered by email (mail@ludlowracecourse.co.uk) or bought on race days at the following prices:

Members Day Badge

• Includes: Admission to all areas of the racecourse including the Members Enclosure.
• Adult: £20
• Senior Citizen: £20
• Child: Free (when accompanied by an adult)

Grandstand and Paddock

• Includes: Admission to Grandstand and Paddock, Course Enclosure, Parade Ring, and Winners Enclosure.
• Adult: £16
• Senior Citizen: £16 (plus free £2 refreshment voucher)
• Child: Free (when accompanied by an adult)

Course

• Includes: Admission to Course Enclosure.
• Adult: £10
• Senior Citizen: £10
• Child: Free (when accompanied by an adult)

Travel

Ludlow Racecourse is easily accessed by road or public transport.

By Road
The racecourse is situated approximately 2 miles north of Ludlow, just off the A49. From the north or south take the A49 via Shrewsbury (from the north) or Hereford (from the south) From the east take the A44 from Worcester and from the west take the A4113. The course is well signposted from the A49 and A4113.

By Public Transport
The racecourse is approximately 2 miles from Ludlow station which is served by regular trains from Newport (on the Paddington line) A free shuttle bus takes race-goers to and from the racecourse, leaving from Ludlow train station at a quarter past the hour before the first race.

By Air
It is possible to land at the racecourse by helicopter but prior arrangements must be made.

Contact

For information about races or for general enquiries contact Ludlow Race Club:

Address: Ludlow Race Club Ltd,
Ludlow Racecourse,
Bromfield,
Ludlow,
Shropshire,
SY8 2BT

Tel: 01584 856 221

Fax: 01584 856 217

Email: mail@ludlowracecourse.co.uk