Post in collaboration with Ray Hobbs
If you’ve never been to a race course before, the chances are that you might not have the best impression of horse racing. For years tabloid newspapers have jumped at the chance of printing photos of young men and women a little worse for wear after a few too many drinks on Ladies Day. But rest assured scenes like that a rarity in horse racing. In fact the UKs race courses offer some of the most glamorous and sophisticated days out you could ever hope to enjoy.
One of the jewels in the crown of the horse racing world is the Ripon Racecourse. If you’re planning a trip to Harrogate, then the track is less than 12 miles way from the centre and well worth a visit. The town has been hosting horse races since 1664, which makes the sport a huge part of Ripon’s social history. The course on Boroughbridge Road has been offering some of the best food, drink and entertainment since 1990 and is known by many as Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse.
Of course the main reason people go to horse racing is the excitement of a bet. The odds system and horse racing tips can be rather confusing for someone visiting a race course for the first time, but don’t worry as help is just a swipe away. Nowadays you can place a bet from the comfort your phone by downloading apps from bookmakers like Coral before you leave. If you’re looking for tips of horses to bet on, Coral has all of the latest news and odds to help you choose who to bet on. Once you’ve chosen, the app will even calculate the amount of money you’re set to win so you know exactly what to expect. In fact the app offers better horse racing tips and odds than most of the bookmakers on the site, so you could end up winning a lot more money as well.
Now you’ve found out how to get the horse racing tips without even having to move, you can now plan how you can really indulge during your time at the races. Racecourses around the country have a wide range of catering options, from a burger from a burger van to the finest champagne and horderves served in your own private box. Ripon is no different, as its experienced caterers offer a wide range of bespoke menus and options to suit all tastes. Using on the finest local produce, you can choose from a stunning seated meal, a finger buffet in your own private box, or even your own private barbeque.
Of course horse racing continues to be one of the best excuses to get dressed up in your finest clothes. The Club enclosure prides itself on showcasing some of the best fashion, and most men regularly wear top hats just like the traditional race goer. Whatever dress you choose, you’ll look the part alongside the tracks stunning scenery bursting with different coloured flowers.
