Horse Racing
August 2015Ebor Festival
Taking place over four days in August, the Ebor Festival at York Racecourse is a lively, social summer event and one of the most popular racing festivals held in the north of England.
The opening day, Wednesday, sees York’s richest race, the Juddmonte International. On Thursday, visitors can see the Darley Yorkshire Oaks and also enjoy the Ladies Day fashions. Friday sees the fastest race of the season, with the Nunthorpe Stakes. The highlight of the Festival is Saturday – Ebor Day – and the Ebor Handicap, which is the richest flat handicap in Europe.
York Racecourse’s long history dates back to 1731. Its first grandstand was built there in 1754, financed by 250 people who each paid 5 guineas. The Ebor Festival originated a century later, in 1843.
Smart dress is encouraged at the Festival. In the County Stand, gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie; ladies should look smart and most wear a hat.
The best way to reach the racecourse is to travel by train and order a station taxi for the return journey in advance.
