Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse is one of Britain's oldest racecourses — a track that has been entertaining racing fans since 1755. That makes it older than the Derby, older than most of the sport's great venues, and a genuine piece of British racing heritage. The course has evolved from its early days as a flat venue to become a specialist National Hunt track and the home of the Horse & Hound Cup.
What makes Stratford's history special is its longevity and its shift to summer jumping. The course has survived wars, changes in ownership, and the ebb and flow of British racing. Today it stands as one of the few jumps venues that races through the summer months, offering a unique calendar that sets it apart from Cheltenham or Warwick.
This guide traces the course from its origins to the present day. For the complete guide to the track today, or the betting angles, those guides have you covered.
Origins
Racing at Stratford dates back to 1755, when the course was established on land near the town. In those days, flat racing dominated — the jumps game was still in its infancy, and Stratford was part of a network of provincial courses that served the local gentry and farming community.
Early Racing
The early meetings were modest affairs. Races were run over distances that would seem odd today, and the crowds were local. The course sat in the heart of Warwickshire, with Stratford-upon-Avon growing in fame as Shakespeare's birthplace. Racing and the town developed in parallel, though the theatre boom was still a century away.
The Shift to Jumping
Over the 19th century, National Hunt racing grew in popularity. Stratford began to stage more jumps races, and by the late 1800s the course had established itself as a jumps venue. The Horse & Hound Cup emerged as the feature race, and the track's character — undulating, right-handed, testing — became its hallmark. For more on the course today, see the complete guide.
The Golden Era
The mid-20th century saw Stratford flourish as a summer jumping venue. While many jumps tracks closed for the flat season, Stratford carved out a niche — racing through the warmer months when the ground was often faster and the crowds could enjoy the sunshine.
Summer Jumping Takes Hold
The course's summer calendar became its defining feature. Trainers from the West Midlands and beyond began to target Stratford for horses who needed a run between the winter and autumn campaigns. The Horse & Hound Cup grew in prestige, and the track developed a loyal following among jumps fans who wanted racing when most venues were quiet.
Facilities and Growth
Grandstands were improved, enclosures were developed, and the course became a proper day-out destination. The Warwickshire setting — close to Stratford-upon-Avon and its tourist trade — helped draw visitors. The day out guide has more on what the course offers today.
Famous Moments
Stratford has hosted its share of memorable moments over the decades. The Horse & Hound Cup has produced plenty of cracking renewals, and the summer jumping programme has seen future stars pass through on their way to bigger things.
Great Horses and Jockeys
Champions and future champions have graced the track. Stratford has been a stepping stone for horses heading to Cheltenham and Aintree, and a target in its own right for quality handicap chasers. The Horse & Hound Cup guide covers some of the standout winners.
Memorable Renewals
The undulating track and testing finish have produced close finishes and dramatic reversals. Horses who've raced too freely have been caught on the run-in; those who've held something back have often prevailed. The betting guide has more on how the track plays.
The Modern Era
The modern era has seen Stratford consolidate its position as Britain's premier summer jumping venue. The course stages around 20 fixtures per year, from April to October, and the Horse & Hound Cup remains the highlight of the calendar.
Investment and Improvements
Facilities have been updated, viewing has been improved, and the course has kept pace with what racegoers expect. The capacity of around 5,000 creates an intimate feel without feeling cramped. The complete guide has the full picture on what's on offer.
Summer Jumping Today
Stratford's summer programme fills a gap in the calendar. When Plumpton and Fontwell have finished for the season, Stratford keeps the jumps flag flying. The summer jumping guide has more on the key meetings and the experience.
Stratford's Legacy
Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse has earned its place in British racing history. Over 265 years of continuous racing is a rare achievement, and the course's specialisation in summer jumping has made it unique.
A Living Heritage
The course has adapted to changing times while retaining its character. The undulating track, the right-handed layout, the testing finish — these have been constants. The Horse & Hound Cup has grown from a local feature to a recognised target for quality chasers.
Looking Ahead
Stratford's future looks secure. The summer jumping niche is well established, and the Warwickshire setting — with Stratford-upon-Avon on the doorstep — continues to draw visitors. For a day at the races, see the day out guide; for the full picture, the complete guide has you covered.
More about this racecourse
Horse & Hound Cup: Complete Guide
Your complete guide to the Horse & Hound Cup — Warwickshire's signature chase at Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse.
Read moreBetting at Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse
Bet smarter at Stratford-on-Avon — track characteristics, going and draw, key trainers and jockeys, strategies for Warwickshire's historic jumps venue.
Read moreStratford-on-Avon Racecourse: Complete Guide
Stratford-on-Avon Racecourse — Warwickshire's historic jumps venue, the Horse & Hound Cup, and over 265 years of National Hunt racing.
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.