The history of Royal Windsor Racecourse
Windsor’s royal heritage stretches back 700 years to when Windsor Great Park was enclosed as a royal hunting ground. Flat racing began on the current site in 1866 and was established by John Frail who went on to run several racecourses.
Windsor didn’t attempt to compete with nearby Ascot, instead aiming to provide opportunities for lesser-known horses to run in a setting close to London. Monday evening meetings began in the 1960s and still run throughout spring and summer today.
Royal Windsor today
The modern-day racecourse plays host to year-round events, including charity runs and cycling events, markets, and wedding fairs.
Thanks to its royal heritage, picturesque marquee and tree-lined avenues, and proximity to London and the River Thames, Royal Windsor Racecourse is a venue of choice for weddings and special events in Windsor.
Food and drink at the Royal Windsor Racecourse
It’s easy to enhance your experience of Royal Windsor Racecourse with the selection of restaurants that you can enjoy when the dust has settled. From 1866, which boasts panoramic views of the racecourse, to Gastro @ Royal Windsor and al fresco dining at The Deck, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re looking for a special dinner.
For something a little more laid back, grab a bite to eat from one of Royal Windsor’s diverse street food stalls.
There are also several well-stocked bars accessible from every enclosure, offering a selection of beers, ciders, wines, and spirits. If you’re in the mood for a race day classic, head to the Paddock Lawn Bar for a jug of Pimm’s.
The Royal Windsor Racecourse dress code
Race days are notoriously luxurious, and it’s recommended that visitors dress the part. There are three enclosures at Royal Windsor Racecourse, each with a slightly different dress code.
If you’re visiting the Heidsieck Club Enclosure, you’ll need to adhere to a smart dress code. Jeans and tailored shorts are acceptable, though t-shirts, sportswear, cargo-style shorts, and trainers are not permitted. Beach style flip flops will also be refused.
In the Grandstand Enclosure, visitors are asked to dress smartly. If you’re looking to enjoy a more casual day, head into the Silver Ring Enclosure, where there is no dress code.
More things to do near Windsor Racecourse
There’s much more to Windsor than the racecourse alone. The town is home to Windsor Castle, a memorable destination for an afternoon out. The Queen’s outer-city residence is a beautiful place for visitors to explore, complete with breathtaking grounds and ornate interiors.
If you’re visiting with kids, head to Legoland Windsor for a fun-filled family day out. Or, if the sun’s shining, go to Windsor Great Park to stretch your legs and enjoy some energising fresh air. There are also lots of swanky restaurants and bars in Windsor, so you can head out at the end of the day and enjoy a wonderful dinner.
Hotels near Windsor Racecourse
Looking for a luxurious hotel to compliment your trip to Royal Windsor Racecourse? Castle Hotel Windsor by MGallery is just over one mile away from the racecourse, which can be reached in less than ten minutes by car.
Situated amid Windsor’s beautiful high street, the hotel occupies an elegant Georgian building directly opposite the iconic Windsor Castle. It’s the perfect place to stay over the night of or before an event at the Royal Windsor Racecourse.
