Fontwell Park is one of British jump racing's most distinctive venues. It's the only racecourse in Britain with a figure-of-eight chase course — a unique layout that creates a test unlike any other. The hurdles track is a more conventional left-handed oval of about one mile, but it's the chase course that defines Fontwell and makes it a must-visit for jumps fans.
The course was founded in 1924 by Alfred Day, a local horse trainer who revived the name Fontwell from the area's history. The first meeting took place on 21 May that year. The figure-of-eight design was Day's solution to making efficient use of the available land — and it has endured for a century. With a capacity of around 5,000, the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming.
The Fontwell Gold Cup is the feature race, but the course also hosts the National Spirit Hurdle, a Grade 2 trial for the Cheltenham Festival. The programme runs throughout the winter, with hurdles and chases on most cards. Understanding the figure-of-eight layout is key to understanding how races unfold.
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
Fontwell Park has two distinct courses: a conventional hurdles oval and the unique figure-of-eight chase circuit. Understanding both is key to understanding the racing.
The Hurdles Course
The hurdles track is a left-handed oval of approximately one mile. It's straightforward — no sharp bends or quirky chicanes — and provides a fair test of hurdling ability. The ground can vary with the season; West Sussex gets its share of rain, and the going can soften quickly. Drainage is generally good, and the track rarely loses meetings to waterlogging.
The Figure-of-Eight Chase Course
The chase course is what sets Fontwell apart. It's the only figure-of-eight steeplechase course in Britain — two loops that cross in the middle, creating a layout that demands constant changes of direction. The design was Alfred Day's solution to fitting a chase circuit into the available land. There are seven fences, and the constant turns and twists suit quicker, more agile horses. The course has a stiff finish, allowing hold-up horses to mount late challenges. For a full breakdown, see the figure-of-eight guide.
Hurdles vs Chases
The two courses create different tests. Hurdles races run on the oval; chases use the figure-of-eight. A horse who thrives over hurdles at Fontwell may not necessarily suit the chase course — and vice versa. The betting guide has more on how the layout affects results.
Key Fixtures & Calendar
Fontwell Park stages around 25 fixtures a year, spread across the winter and early spring. The programme is exclusively National Hunt — hurdles and chases — with no flat racing. The course is owned by Arena Racing Company and hosts a mix of weekend and weekday meetings.
Fontwell Gold Cup Day
The Fontwell Gold Cup is the feature chase of the year. Check the course website for the exact date each season. The card typically includes supporting races, and the Gold Cup itself is run over the unique figure-of-eight chase course.
National Spirit Hurdle
The National Spirit Hurdle, a Grade 2 run over 2 miles 4 furlongs in February, is a recognised trial for the Cheltenham Festival. It attracts quality hurdlers and adds a touch of class to the calendar. The hurdles course is a conventional left-handed oval, so the race doesn't use the figure-of-eight.
Planning Your Visit
Weekend fixtures tend to attract larger crowds. For a quieter experience, weekday meetings offer competitive racing without the bustle. The day out guide has tips on making the most of your visit, and the betting guide covers the key races and angles.
Facilities & Hospitality
Fontwell Park offers straightforward facilities that match its intimate scale. With a capacity of around 5,000, the course doesn't have the corporate hospitality sprawl of the bigger venues — instead, you get a welcoming, accessible setup that suits a day at the jumps.
Enclosures and Viewing
The main grandstand provides a view of the track, though the figure-of-eight layout means you won't see every yard of every race from one spot. The crossing point of the two loops is a key viewing area — you see the chasers change direction. The paddock and parade ring are easily accessible, and the compact site means you're never far from the action.
Food and Drink
There are bars and catering outlets across the course, with options ranging from quick bites to sit-down meals. The course is owned by Arena Racing Company, so standards are consistent with other ARC venues. For group bookings or hospitality packages, check the course website — options are available for those who want a more structured experience.
Accessibility
The site is relatively compact. The figure-of-eight layout can make navigation slightly less straightforward than at a simple oval, but the course is well signposted. Disabled facilities are available; contact the course in advance to arrange specific requirements. The day out guide has more on what to expect when you visit.
Getting There
Fontwell Park Racecourse sits in Fontwell, West Sussex, with postcode BN18 0SX. The course is in the Arun Valley, with straightforward access by road. The nearest station is Barnham, on the Brighton–Portsmouth line.
By Train
Barnham station is on the main line between Brighton and Portsmouth, with services from London Victoria (via Gatwick or Clapham Junction), Brighton, Chichester, and Portsmouth. From Barnham, it's a taxi ride of about 5–10 minutes to the course. Pre-booking a taxi for the return journey is advisable, especially for evening meetings. Check the timetable before you travel.
By Car
Fontwell is well served by the A27 (Brighton–Chichester) and the A29. From the A27, take the Fontwell exit and follow signs for the racecourse. There is on-course parking available. On Fontwell Gold Cup day and other busy fixtures, arrive 45 minutes before the first race to secure a spot close to the entrance. Check the course website for parking arrangements and any charges.
Combining with a Sussex Break
Fontwell is ideally placed for a day trip from Brighton, Chichester, or the South Coast. Goodwood is nearby for flat racing in the summer, and the South Downs offer plenty of walking and cycling. If you're staying in the area, consider combining a Fontwell fixture with a visit to Plumpton or Lingfield for a varied racing weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
More about this racecourse
Fontwell Park Figure-of-Eight: The Unique Chase Course
Understanding Fontwell's unique figure-of-eight chase course — the only one of its kind in Britain, how it works, and how it affects racing and betting.
Read moreFontwell Gold Cup: Complete Guide
Your complete guide to the Fontwell Gold Cup — Fontwell Park's flagship chase run over the unique figure-of-eight course each season.
Read moreBetting at Fontwell Park Racecourse
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