Exeter Racecourse sits on the Haldon Hills, five miles south of the city — Britain's highest racecourse at 850 feet above sea level. Locally it's often called Haldon Racecourse, and the views across Devon are spectacular. The course has been staging National Hunt racing since 1898, though racing in the area dates back to 1738. Until the early 1990s it was officially known as Devon and Exeter, and that heritage runs deep.
What defines Exeter is the terrain. The track is right-handed and undulating, with a stiff uphill finish that tests stamina. When the going gets soft — which it often does in the South West — the course becomes a proper test. The Haldon Gold Cup in late October or early November is the feature race, a Grade 2 chase that has launched countless Cheltenham campaigns. Paul Nicholls has won it eight times; Travado won it three years running in the 1990s.
Exeter is pure jumps — no flat racing here. The season runs from October through to May, with around 15 fixtures. The Devon National in February adds another highlight for staying chasers. With a capacity of around 5,000, the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming. It's the sort of track where you can get close to the action and enjoy a proper Devon day out.
This guide covers everything you need: the course layout, key fixtures, facilities, and how to get there. Whether you're planning a day out or studying the betting angles, you'll find what you need here.
The Course
Exeter's track is a right-handed oval of approximately 1 mile 7 furlongs, set on the Haldon Hills with sweeping views across the Devon countryside. At 850 feet above sea level, it's Britain's highest racecourse — and the altitude, combined with the undulating terrain, creates a distinctive test. The course favours horses that can handle a stiff finish and stay the trip.
The Shape and Direction
The track runs right-handed, with a long back stretch before the turn into the home straight. The run-in rises steadily to the line, and that uphill finish separates horses that stay from those that don't. Hurdlers and chasers alike need to be able to grind it out; speed alone rarely wins here when the ground is soft. The fences are generally considered fair rather than punishing, though the open ditches demand respect.
Going and Conditions
Exeter's location in Devon means it gets plenty of rain. The going can be heavy for long periods in winter, and even in autumn the ground often rides soft. Drainage has improved over the years, but it's worth checking the going report before you travel. The track can ride differently from one meeting to the next, and that variability adds another layer to the betting puzzle.
National Hunt Only
Unlike many dual-purpose tracks, Exeter stages only jumps racing. The season runs from October through to May, with the Haldon Gold Cup in late October or early November and the Devon National in February. For a deeper look at how the course affects results, see the betting guide.
Key Fixtures & Calendar
Exeter stages around 15 National Hunt fixtures each season, running from October through to May. The calendar is built around two feature meetings: the Haldon Gold Cup day in late October or early November, and the Devon National card in February.
Haldon Gold Cup Day
The highlight of the season. The Grade 2 Haldon Gold Cup Chase over approximately 2 miles 1½ furlongs attracts top two-mile chasers at the start of their campaigns. It's a recognised stepping stone to the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham, and the card typically includes competitive handicaps and novice events. Expect the biggest crowds and the best fields of the year.
Devon National Day
February's feature is the Devon National, a staying handicap chase that tests stamina over the undulating track. It's a different test to the Haldon Gold Cup — grinders and stayers rather than speed merchants — and it often produces form that translates well to the spring festivals.
Midweek and Weekend Cards
Exeter mixes midweek and weekend fixtures throughout the season. Saturday cards tend to draw larger crowds; midweek meetings are quieter but often offer good value for those who know the track. Check the course website for the full fixture list and any changes to the programme.
Facilities & Hospitality
Exeter Racecourse offers a compact, friendly set-up. With a capacity of around 5,000, everything is within easy walking distance — no long treks between enclosures or distant car parks. The views from the stands across the Devon countryside are one of the course's best features.
Enclosures
The main Grandstand enclosure provides covered viewing and access to the parade ring and winners' enclosure. The Course enclosure offers a more relaxed experience, with plenty of space to wander and watch the racing from different angles. On Haldon Gold Cup day, the Premier enclosure gives the best views and access to the main facilities.
Hospitality
There are several bars and food outlets across the course, from quick bites to sit-down options. The restaurant and hospitality packages are popular for groups and corporate bookings. Pre-booking is advisable for feature days. For more detail on what to expect on a visit, see the day out guide.
Practicalities
The course has good disabled access, and the compact layout makes it easy to get around. Toilets and refreshment points are well distributed. Dress code is smart casual in most areas; check the website for Premier enclosure requirements on feature days.
Getting There
Exeter Racecourse sits on the Haldon Hills, five miles south of Exeter, with postcode EX6 7XS. The course is well signposted from the A38 and the M5, though the final approach involves country lanes. Allow a bit of extra time if you're not familiar with the area.
By Train
Exeter St Davids is the nearest station, on the main line from London Paddington and with connections from Bristol, Birmingham, and the North. From the station, it's a taxi ride of about 15–20 minutes to the course. Pre-booking a taxi for the return journey is advisable, especially for evening meetings. Check the timetable before you travel — services are frequent but connections can be tight.
By Car
From the M5, take Junction 30 for Exeter and follow the A38 towards Plymouth. The course is signposted from the A38. From Exeter city centre, head south on the A38 and follow signs for Haldon. There is on-course parking available; on Haldon Gold Cup day, arrive 45 minutes before the first race to secure a spot. Check the course website for parking arrangements and any charges.
Combining with a Devon Break
Exeter is ideally placed for a day trip from the South West. The city has plenty to offer before or after racing, and the coast is within easy reach. If you're staying in the area, consider combining an Exeter fixture with a visit to Newton Abbot or Taunton for a proper West Country jumps weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
More about this racecourse
Betting at Exeter Racecourse
How to bet smarter at Exeter — track characteristics, going and draw, key trainers and jockeys, and strategies for Britain's highest National Hunt track.
Read moreA Day Out at Exeter Racecourse
Everything you need for a day at Exeter — getting there, what to wear, enclosures, food and drink, and insider tips for Britain's highest National Hunt track.
Read moreDevon National: Complete Guide
Your complete guide to the Devon National — Exeter's staying handicap chase and February highlight for chasers.
Read moreGamble Responsibly
Gambling should be entertaining and not seen as a way to make money. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help and support is available.