Redcar Racecourse is North Yorkshire's seaside flat venue — a left-handed oval that has been entertaining racing fans since 1872. Situated on the Cleveland coast, the course combines a relaxed North East atmosphere with competitive flat racing, and its unique straight mile has made it a favourite among punters and trainers alike. The Two Year Old Trophy is the signature race, and the track's character has earned it a loyal following.
What defines Redcar is the combination of layout and location. The course is a left-handed oval of just over a mile and four furlongs, with relatively tight banked bends. Crucially, a three-furlong chute joins the main track to create the UK's only straight and level mile — a genuine test of speed with no bends and no gradient. For a deeper look at the straight mile, that guide has you covered.
With a capacity of around 5,000, Redcar feels welcoming without being overwhelming. It's a favourite among flat fans who appreciate the track's character and the seaside setting. 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
Redcar's track is one of the most distinctive in British flat racing. The course is a left-handed oval of just over a mile and four furlongs, with relatively tight banked bends and a three-furlong chute that creates the UK's only straight and level mile. That layout creates a genuine test of speed — quite different from the galloping tracks you'll find at Doncaster or York.
The Layout and Direction
The course runs left-handed, with the main oval providing races from five furlongs up to a mile and a half. The bends are relatively tight and banked, which can favour handy types who can hold a position. The straight mile, however, is a different proposition entirely — horses join from the chute and run the full mile without a bend or gradient. For a deeper look at how this affects results, see the betting guide.
The Straight Mile
The three-furlong chute joins the main track where the top bend meets the straight, providing a mile that is both straight and level. It's purported to be the only such course in the UK, making it a valuable reference point for form and a proper test of raw speed. The straight mile guide covers this in detail.
Going and Conditions
Redcar sits on the Cleveland coast, and the track drains reasonably well. The going can vary from good to firm in summer to good to soft after rain. It's worth checking the going report before you travel. The Two Year Old Trophy typically sees competitive ground in early October.
A Seaside Flat Venue
Redcar is exclusively flat — no jumps. The season runs from spring through to autumn, with fixtures spread across the week. The track stages everything from sprint handicaps to staying races, with the Two Year Old Trophy as the feature event. For more on the course's character, see the history of racing at Redcar.
Key Fixtures & Calendar
Redcar's fixture list runs from spring through to autumn, with meetings spread across the week. The course typically hosts around 20 fixtures per season, and the calendar is built around a handful of standout days.
The Two Year Old Trophy Meeting
The highlight of the year is the Two Year Old Trophy meeting, usually held on a Saturday in early October. It's the most lucrative race at the course and attracts quality two-year-olds from across the country. The same card often features the Guisborough Stakes, a Listed race over seven furlongs for older horses. For a full breakdown of the meeting, the Two Year Old Trophy guide has you covered.
Bank Holiday and Summer Racing
Redcar stages fixtures on several Bank Holidays, including Easter Monday and the late May bank holiday. These meetings tend to draw good crowds and offer a mix of handicaps and conditions races. Summer evenings can be particularly pleasant — the seaside location and long daylight hours make for a relaxed atmosphere.
Zetland Gold Cup
The Zetland Gold Cup, run over a mile and two furlongs on a Monday in May, is another key handicap. It's been part of the Redcar calendar for decades and often produces competitive betting heats. For betting angles on these key races, that guide covers the trends.
Planning Your Visit
Check the Redcar website for the full fixture list and ticket prices. The day out guide covers practical tips for visiting, including transport and what to expect on the day.
Facilities & Hospitality
Redcar offers a range of facilities that suit both casual racegoers and those looking for a more formal experience. The grandstand, erected in 1964 under Major Leslie Petch's stewardship, still stands today and provides good views of the track.
Enclosures and Viewing
The main grandstand gives you a clear view of the straight and the winning post. The course layout means you can follow the action from the start on the straight mile races, and the tight oval ensures you're never far from the horses. For a breakdown of enclosures and where to watch from, the day out guide has the details.
Hospitality and Dining
Redcar offers various hospitality packages, from restaurant dining to private boxes. The course has invested in its facilities over the years, and there are options to suit different budgets. Booking in advance is recommended for the Two Year Old Trophy meeting, when demand is highest.
Bars and Refreshments
There are bars and refreshment outlets around the course, so you won't go thirsty. The North East crowd tends to be friendly and relaxed, and the seaside setting adds to the informal feel. Pack layers — the coast can be breezy even on sunny days.
Parade Ring and Winners' Enclosure
The parade ring and winners' enclosure are easily accessible, so you can get close to the horses before and after races. It's a good spot to assess condition and temperament, especially if you're studying the betting angles.
Getting There
Redcar Racecourse is well served by public transport and sits on the Cleveland coast, roughly halfway between Middlesbrough and Saltburn. The course is straightforward to reach by car, and Redcar Central station is the nearest rail link.
By Train
Redcar Central is the nearest station, and it's a short walk or taxi ride to the course. Services run from Middlesbrough, Darlington, and Newcastle, so you can connect from the main East Coast line. Allow a bit of extra time if you're travelling from further afield — the branch line isn't the fastest, but it gets you there.
By Car
The course is just off the A1085, with clear signage. Postcode TS10 2BY will get you there. There's on-site parking, though it can fill up on big days like the Two Year Old Trophy meeting. Arriving early is sensible.
From the North East
If you're coming from Newcastle, Durham, or Sunderland, you'll head south on the A19 and then pick up the A1085. The journey typically takes around an hour from Newcastle. Sedgefield racecourse is in the same region — if you're a jumps fan, the Sedgefield guide covers that venue.
Practical Tips
Check the Redcar website for parking arrangements and any travel updates. The day out guide has more on what to expect when you arrive, including dress code and facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
More about this racecourse
Betting at Redcar Racecourse
Bet smarter at Redcar — track characteristics, the straight mile, going and draw, key trainers and jockeys, strategies for North Yorkshire's seaside flat venue.
Read moreA Day Out at Redcar Racecourse
Everything you need for a day at Redcar — getting there, what to wear, enclosures, food and drink, and insider tips for North Yorkshire's seaside flat venue.
Read moreThe History of Redcar Racecourse
Over 150 years of racing at Redcar — from beach meetings on the sands to North Yorkshire's seaside flat venue and the Two Year Old Trophy.
Read moreGamble Responsibly
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