Anyone who has ever been to a day at the races in the north east will tell you, that if the stars align to provide perfect weather and balmy temperatures, there are few experiences quite like a day at the races.
In recent years there has been a focus on trying to appeal to those horserace fans who do not know the form guide like the back of their hand, but who may instead place a few cheeky bets here or there before turning their attentions to eating delicious food and partying hard.
In this piece we look at the racecourses of the north east which are catering to exactly that sort of clientele, who want to clean out the bookies and then paint the town red with help from cheesy pop sensations like Peter Andre or Craig David.
There is nothing quite like a day of wagering on the long noses before then partying into the small hours of the next morning
Jess Glynne – Ladies Day at Newcastle Racecourse
The Newcastle Racecourse in the green surrounds of High Gosforth Park is so central to this beautiful city that it is not unheard of for locals to simply walk to the races, rather than do battle for a parking spot or for a seat on the metro.
There should be no shortage of dedicated race fans making the five-mile pilgrimage on July 24th, because the annual Ladies Day is due to be given a hip new twist this year, with North London songstress and Grammy winner Jess Glynne wowing spectators once the racing is done.
Before Glynne takes to the stage the races scheduled to take place will no doubt put the other racecards featured online that day to shame, with there even being a Silk Series contest, a race in which all the jockeys will be women.
Imagine all that entertainment, within touching distance of Jesmond Road and the Quayside, and suddenly Ladies Day at Newcastle Racecourse looks like a serious contender for one of the best days out of the year.
Horse race meets are so much more than just racing, with fashion, music, and food all playing crucial parts in the making of a top day out
Bingo and Comedy Nights – Sedgefield Racecourse
Sedgefield Racecourse is a venue that really punches above its weight when it comes to catering to a racing fan’s entertainment needs and wants.
As well as putting on a fantastic ladies day to rival that of Newcastle Racecourse’s, it doesn’t stop there, hosting everything from bingo nights to car boot sales.
Get yourself there on the train to Durham, with particular race highlights being The Durham National and the Boxing Day Racing. Even if your numbers do not come in during the races, you can try again in the evening when the bingo gets underway.
And bingo nights at Sedgefield are not just all about full houses and raffle prizes, with star comedians also cracking jokes that will have you and your crew laughing till your sides hurt.
Hexham Racecourse – The Scenery an Event in Itself
Hexham Racecourse bills itself as the most scenic course in the UK, and few would argue with that statement, with spectators being treated to beautiful moorland views.
This is one course that does not require the razzamatazz of pop acts or bingo, with nature putting on a show to rival any other in the north east.
Pete Tong – Ibiza Comes to Newcastle
Not content with putting on just one major music event this summer, Newcastle Racecourse has also booked in the legendary DJ Pete Tong, who will play a set accompanied by a live orchestra.
So, cheer on your favourite jockeys through a packed day of racing and then crack your glow sticks and rave under the stars on June 26th.