If you are a fan of horse racing and happen to live – or simply be visiting London, then you will have some great events to enjoy. Whether you simply want to enjoy the thrill of the race – bet on them at the tracks, or even get your pre-race bets in at https://www.boylesports.com/sports/horse-racing, the opportunities are endless.
But why limit your betting experiences to the racetracks? With Mostbet, you can take your betting game online and engage with a wider range of betting options. Mostbet offers an extensive platform where you can not only place bets on horse races but also explore a variety of other sports events and casino games. It’s a convenient way to stay connected with all the action, especially when you can’t make it to the track.
So, let’s take a look at the very best horse racing events in London…
The History of Horse Racing in London
Back in the early 1100s, horse racing events were held in public – open for all to see. However, it wasn’t until the 1700s, under the reign of Queen Anne, that the true value of the sport was known.
The inception of the sport made it only accessible to only the nobles and the Knights. It was considered a symbol of wealth and status. As such, it was mainly the royal family that would organise the public horseracing events. However, several wealthy owners built racetracks and organised private events on private grounds.
During the 18th century, the sport started to become more organised and regulated – thus leading to the creation of the first official horse racing track in Newmarket as well as the establishment of the Jockey Club – the governing authority for English horse racing responsible for overseeing and implementing rules and regulations.
It became even more popular in London during the 1800s – and several tracks including Epsom, Kempton Park and Ascot were created, to cater to this growing popularity.
Probably, the most significant horse racing event of this time was in 1839, when the Grand National steeplechase was founded. The race is one of the most prestigious events today, although it is held at Aintree in Liverpool.
In 2017, a new body was established to control the sport – the BHA (British Horseracing Authority).
Top Racers
As well as being responsible for some of the biggest races, London has also produced some of the sport’s best jockeys…
- Paul Mulrennan
- William Buick
- Ben Curtis
- Hollie Doyle
- Brian Hughes
- Sean Bowe and more.
The Most Popular London Horse Racing Events
Although the Grand National might have moved to Liverpool, there are still some excellent events you can visit if staying in and around London…
- The Ascot Gold Cup
- The Epsom Derby
- The Royal Windsor Horse Show
- The Cheltenham Festival
- The Epsom Oaks
These are glamorous, exciting and have a huge history in the sport and in the country.
Horse Racing Tracks in London
Let’s take a look at the best horse racing courses in and around the capital city.
- Ascot: This course is located in Berkshire, West London and hosts the famous Ascot Gold Cup.
- Epsom Downs: Located in Surrey, on the borders of London and is host to the Epsom Derby.
- Kempton Park: Another course located in Surrey, this has a flat all-weather track that is host to many high-profile events.
- Sandown Park: Located in Esther, Surrey, this beautifully scenic course is home to both flat and jump races.
- Newbury Park: This popular London horse racing track is located at Newbury.
- Royal Windsor Park: This stunning course can be found on the banks of the River Thames.
- Lingfield Park: This course can be found near Surrey and is famous for its all-weather but challenging racetrack.
There are so many options, you will be spoilt for choice. So, if you do find yourself at a loose end, there will no doubt be an event for you to enjoy at one of these popular tracks.
Conclusion
Horse racing in London has a fascinating and long history – dating all the way back to the 18th century and before. It really made its mark when the first horse racing track at Newmarket was established along with the Jockey Club as the sport’s official governing body, which ensured that it became more organised and more regulated.
It is now as popular as ever – and London is still an excellent place for horse racing fans to visit.
