Introduction
Huntingdon is a well-appointed National Hunt racecourse in Cambridgeshire, known for its flat, right-handed track that suits slick jumpers. The Peterborough Chase in December is a recognised stepping stone to the Cheltenham Festival and regularly attracts high-class chasers. With a capacity of around 5,000, Huntingdon feels intimate and welcoming — it has been voted Best Small Racecourse in the South Midlands and East Anglia.
What defines Huntingdon is the combination of quality racing and accessibility. The flat track favours speed and jumping fluency rather than stamina, and the course has produced its share of future stars. Desert Orchid, Remittance Man, One Man, Best Mate, and Edredon Bleu have all won the Peterborough Chase — a roll call that speaks to the race's standing.
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
Huntingdon's track is a flat, right-handed oval, located at Brampton near Huntingdon. The layout favours slick jumpers who can maintain a rhythm — it's not a stiff, stamina-sapping course like Cheltenham or Sandown. Speed and jumping fluency tend to count for more than raw stamina.
The Shape and Direction
The course runs right-handed with relatively gentle bends. The flat profile means races can be run at a good clip, and horses that can jump fluently and travel prominently often have an advantage. The Peterborough Chase is run over approximately 2 miles 4 furlongs with 16 fences — a test of speed and jumping rather than endurance.
Going and Conditions
Huntingdon's flat, well-drained layout means the going tends to be consistent. The course holds up well in wet weather, and the ground rarely becomes excessively heavy. That reliability makes it a popular choice for trainers targeting the Peterborough Chase and other winter features.
National Hunt Only
Huntingdon stages National Hunt racing only. The season runs from autumn through spring, with the Peterborough Chase in December and the novice season fixtures as key dates. For a deeper look at how the course affects results, see the betting guide. The course is within easy reach of Newmarket and Kempton for those planning an East Anglia racing tour.
Key Fixtures & Calendar
Huntingdon stages fixtures from autumn through spring, with the bulk of racing in the winter months. The calendar is built around the Peterborough Chase in December — the course's flagship event and a recognised stepping stone to the Cheltenham Festival.
The Peterborough Chase
The Peterborough Chase is a Grade 2 chase run over approximately 2 miles 4 furlongs. It has attracted some of jump racing's greatest names — Desert Orchid, Edredon Bleu (who won it four times), Best Mate, and One Man. The race is typically run in early December and regularly features horses on the way to the Festival.
Novice Season Fixtures
The Huntingdon novice season fixtures are popular with trainers developing young jumpers. The flat track suits slick, fluent jumpers, and the course has a reputation for producing future stars. These meetings often feature competitive novice hurdles and chases.
Planning Your Visit
Fixtures are published on the course website well in advance. The Peterborough Chase day attracts the largest crowds — arrive early to secure parking. For a full breakdown of what to expect on a day out, see our dedicated guide. Huntingdon's proximity to Newmarket and Cambridge makes it easy to combine with other East Anglia attractions.
Facilities & Hospitality
Huntingdon has been voted Best Small Racecourse in the South Midlands and East Anglia — a reflection of its excellent viewing, dining, and spectator facilities. With a capacity of around 5,000, the course never feels overcrowded, and you can move about easily to find a good spot.
Viewing and Enclosures
The main grandstand gives excellent views of the track. The flat, oval layout means you can follow the action around the course, and the fences are visible from most vantage points. There are no multiple tiers of enclosures like at Ascot or Cheltenham — Huntingdon keeps things simple and accessible.
Hospitality and Catering
The course offers a range of dining options, from casual race-day fare to more formal hospitality packages. The course website lists current offerings. For the Peterborough Chase, hospitality packages are popular — book ahead if you're planning a group visit.
Bars and Refreshments
Bars and refreshment kiosks are positioned around the course. Huntingdon's smaller scale means queues are rarely an issue, and the atmosphere is relaxed. For more on food and drink and planning your visit, see our day out guide.
Getting There
Huntingdon Racecourse is located at Brampton, near Huntingdon, postcode PE29 6NR. The course is well signposted and straightforward to reach whether you're coming by train, car, or bus.
By Train
Huntingdon station is on the East Coast Main Line, with direct services from London King's Cross, Peterborough, Cambridge, and the North. From the station, it's a taxi ride of about 10–15 minutes to the course at Brampton. Pre-booking a taxi for the return journey is advisable on race days, especially for Peterborough Chase day when demand can spike.
By Car
From the A1, take the Huntingdon exit and follow signs to Brampton. From Cambridge, the A14 runs to Huntingdon. The course has on-course parking. On Peterborough Chase day and other feature meetings, arrive 30–45 minutes before the first race to secure a spot. Check the course website for parking charges and arrangements.
Combining with the Area
Huntingdon is within easy reach of Cambridge, Peterborough, and the East Anglian countryside. If you're staying in the area, a race day fits neatly into a weekend break. The course is also within striking distance of Newmarket for those planning a racing tour of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
More about this racecourse
Betting at Huntingdon Racecourse
How to bet smarter at Huntingdon — track characteristics, going and conditions, key trainers and jockeys, and strategies for jump racing in Cambridgeshire.
Read moreA Day Out at Huntingdon Racecourse
Everything you need for a day at Huntingdon — getting there, what to wear, enclosures, food and drink, and insider tips for jump racing in Cambridgeshire.
Read moreThe History of Huntingdon Racecourse
Over 130 years of racing at Huntingdon — from the first meeting in 1886 to the Peterborough Chase and quality jump racing in Cambridgeshire.
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.