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A 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.

4 min readUpdated 2026-03-02

Introduction

A day at Huntingdon Racecourse is one of jump racing's most enjoyable experiences. Set in the Cambridgeshire countryside at Brampton, the course combines quality racing with a welcoming atmosphere. With a capacity of around 5,000, it never feels overwhelming — Huntingdon has been voted Best Small Racecourse in the South Midlands and East Anglia, and it's easy to see why.

Huntingdon stages National Hunt racing from autumn through spring, with the Peterborough Chase in December as the highlight. The flat, right-handed track suits slick jumpers, and the course has attracted some of the sport's greatest names. The novice season fixtures are also popular, offering a chance to spot future stars.

This guide covers getting there, what to wear, enclosures and viewing, food and drink, and practical tips. For the full picture on the course and fixtures, see the complete guide. If you're interested in the betting angles, we've got that covered too.

Getting to Huntingdon

Huntingdon Racecourse is located at Brampton, near Huntingdon, postcode PE29 6NR. The course is well signposted and straightforward to reach.

By Train

Huntingdon station is on the East Coast Main Line. Services run 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.

Making a Weekend of It

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.

What to Wear

Huntingdon is relaxed when it comes to dress. There's no strict dress code for general admission — smart casual is perfectly fine. Jeans and a jumper, or chinos and a shirt, will see you right in most areas.

General Admission

For the main enclosures, dress for the weather. Huntingdon races from autumn through spring, so layers are your friend. A waterproof jacket is a sensible addition — you're outdoors for much of the day. Comfortable shoes are a must; you'll be on your feet watching the action.

Hospitality Areas

If you've booked a restaurant or hospitality package, check the specific requirements with the course. Some areas may expect smarter attire — collared shirts, no sportswear — but it's nothing like Ascot or Royal Ascot. When in doubt, smart casual covers it.

Winter Racing

Winter meetings can be cold. A warm coat, scarf, and gloves are worth packing. The grandstand offers some shelter, but you'll want to be prepared for standing outside. The reward is quality jump racing — wrap up and enjoy it.

Enclosures & Viewing

Huntingdon keeps things simple when it comes to enclosures. There's no tiered system like at the big festivals — you buy your ticket and have access to the main viewing areas. The flat, oval layout means you can follow the action around the course.

The Grandstand

The main grandstand gives excellent views of the track. The flat profile of the course means you can see the fences clearly, and the oval layout allows you to follow the runners throughout the race. Huntingdon's smaller scale means you're never far from the action.

Getting a Good Spot

With a capacity of around 5,000, Huntingdon rarely feels crowded. You can move about easily and find a spot that suits you. The parade ring and winner's enclosure are accessible, so you can get close to the horses and jockeys without fighting through crowds.

Parade Ring

The parade ring is a good place to assess the runners before they head to the track. Huntingdon's flat track favours slick, fluent jumpers — look for horses that move well and jump cleanly. For betting tips on what to look for, see our dedicated guide.

Food & Drink

Huntingdon offers a range of catering options, from casual race-day fare to more formal hospitality. Bars and refreshment kiosks are positioned around the course, and queues are rarely an issue thanks to the smaller crowds.

On-Course Options

The course website lists current dining and hospitality packages. There are options for groups and corporate events, including private boxes and restaurant bookings. For the Peterborough Chase, hospitality packages are popular — book ahead if you're planning a group visit.

Practical Tips

Bring cash or ensure your card works — some smaller outlets may have limited card facilities. If you're driving, remember the drink-driving laws. Taxis are available for the journey back to the station or your accommodation. For more on getting there and planning your visit, see the rest of this guide.

After Racing

Huntingdon is within easy reach of Cambridge and Peterborough. Both offer a range of restaurants and pubs if you're making an evening of it. For a full day out, consider combining the racing with a visit to Newmarket or the East Anglian countryside.

Tips & FAQ

Arrive Early on Peterborough Chase Day

On Peterborough Chase day, arrive 30–45 minutes before the first race to secure parking and avoid the rush. Midweek meetings are quieter and more relaxed.

Pre-Book Taxis

If you're coming by train, pre-book a taxi for the return journey. Huntingdon station is a short ride from the course at Brampton, but demand can spike when racing finishes. Local firms know the drill.

Explore the Area

Huntingdon is within easy reach of Cambridge, Peterborough, and the East Anglian countryside. Consider combining a race day with a visit to the region. Newmarket is also within striking distance for racing enthusiasts.

Is Huntingdon family-friendly?

Yes. Huntingdon is a welcoming venue. Check the course website for current admission policies and any family-focused race days.

What if it rains?

Huntingdon's flat, well-drained layout means the course holds up well in wet weather. Bring a waterproof — you'll be outdoors for much of the day.

Where can I find more information?

The complete guide covers the course, fixtures, and facilities. The betting guide has tips for punters. The course website has the latest fixture list and ticket information.

More about this racecourse

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