Market Rasen is one of British jump racing's most distinctive venues. Nestled in the Lincolnshire Wolds, it's the only National Hunt course in Britain that races year-round — 12 months of jumping when most tracks have switched to the flat or closed for the summer. That makes it a proper summer jumping destination, and the Summer Plate meeting in July is the highlight of the calendar.
The course has been on its present site on Willingham Road since 1924, when racing moved from the old Feast Week meetings that had run in the town since the early 1800s. The layout was refined by Victor Lucas in the post-war years and has remained largely unchanged since — a right-handed oval of about 1 mile 2 furlongs that favours handy, agile jumpers. With a capacity of around 5,000, the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming rather than corporate.
What sets Market Rasen apart is the summer programme. While Newton Abbot and Worcester offer summer jumping too, Market Rasen's July fixture — the Summer Plate and Summer Hurdle — draws some of the best fields of the summer jumps season. The Summer Plate was upgraded to Grade 3 status in 2020, and both races are among the most valuable National Hunt contests held in Britain during the summer months.
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
Market Rasen's track is a right-handed oval of approximately 1 mile 2 furlongs, set in the Lincolnshire Wolds on Willingham Road. The layout was planned by Victor Lucas between 1945 and 1971 and has remained largely unchanged since — a compact, sharp circuit that rewards nimble jumpers and accurate jumping.
The Shape and Direction
The course runs right-handed, with a relatively short back stretch before the turn into the home straight. The compact nature of the track means there are no long, galloping stretches — horses are constantly turning or preparing to turn. That suits handy types who can jump fluently and hold their position. Front-runners can get an easy lead if they jump well, but the sharp bends also allow hold-up horses to mount late challenges if the pace is honest.
Hurdles and Chases
Both hurdles and chases use the same oval. The fences are generally considered fair rather than punishing — Market Rasen doesn't have the reputation of a stern test like Hexham or Exeter. The ground can vary with the season: summer meetings often ride on good or good to soft going, whilst winter can bring softer conditions. Drainage is generally good, and the track rarely loses meetings to waterlogging.
Year-Round Jumping
What makes Market Rasen unique is its year-round programme. When most jumps courses close for the flat season, Market Rasen keeps going. That creates a different rhythm — summer jumping here attracts horses who thrive in warmer conditions and trainers looking to keep their jumpers ticking over. For a deeper look at how the summer programme works, see the summer jumping guide. For betting implications, the sharp track and seasonal variation both matter.
Key Fixtures & Calendar
Market Rasen stages around 20 fixtures a year, spread across all 12 months. The programme is predominantly National Hunt — hurdles and chases — with no flat racing. Weekend and weekday meetings are both well represented, and the course has built a reputation for accessible, entertaining jump racing in the East Midlands.
Summer Plate Day
The Summer Plate meeting, normally held on the third Saturday in July, is the highlight of the year. The card features the Summer Plate itself — a Grade 3 steeplechase over 2 miles 5 furlongs — and the Summer Hurdle over 2 miles 2 furlongs. Both are among the most valuable National Hunt races held in Britain during the summer months. Check the course website for the exact date each year.
Other Key Fixtures
The course hosts a mix of Listed races, competitive handicaps, and novice events throughout the year. The Summer Plate meeting often includes a Ladies Day theme, drawing larger crowds. Winter fixtures can attract good-quality chasers and hurdlers from northern and Midlands yards, with the going typically softer than in summer.
Planning Your Visit
Weekend fixtures tend to attract larger crowds, especially on Summer Plate day. 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
Market Rasen 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 clear view of the track, and the compact layout means you're never far from the action. The paddock is easily accessible, and the parade ring gives you a good look at the runners before each race. For Summer Plate day and other busy fixtures, arriving early secures the best viewing spots.
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 part of The Jockey Club, so standards are consistent with other Jockey Club 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 flat and compact, making it easier to get around than some of the more undulating courses. 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
Market Rasen Racecourse sits on Willingham Road, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire, with postcode LN8 3EA. The course is in the Lincolnshire Wolds, with straightforward access by road. Public transport options are more limited than at some city courses, so many visitors drive.
By Train
Market Rasen station is on the Lincoln–Grimsby line, with services from Lincoln, Grimsby, and connections from Newark and Sheffield. From the station, 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 — services are less frequent than on mainline routes.
By Car
Market Rasen is well served by the A46 (Lincoln–Grimsby) and the A157. From the A46, follow signs for Market Rasen and then for the racecourse on Willingham Road. There is on-course parking available. On Summer Plate 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 Lincolnshire Break
Market Rasen is ideally placed for a day trip from Lincoln, Grimsby, or the coast. The Lincolnshire Wolds offer plenty of walking and cycling, and the area has a distinct rural character. If you're staying nearby, consider combining a Market Rasen fixture with a visit to Doncaster or Nottingham for a varied racing weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
More about this racecourse
Betting at Market Rasen Racecourse
Bet smarter at Market Rasen — track characteristics, going and conditions, key trainers and jockeys, strategies for Lincolnshire's year-round jumps track.
Read moreA Day Out at Market Rasen Racecourse
A day at Market Rasen — getting there, what to wear, enclosures, food and drink, and insider tips for Lincolnshire's year-round jumps track.
Read moreThe History of Market Rasen Racecourse
Over 200 years of racing at Market Rasen — from Feast Week in the early 1800s to Britain's only year-round National Hunt track.
Read moreGamble Responsibly
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