Uttoxeter is one of those racecourses that punches above its weight. Tucked away in rural Staffordshire, it's been a National Hunt stronghold since 1907 — and it's the permanent home of the Midlands Grand National, one of the most gruelling staying chases in the calendar. If you want proper jumping in the West Midlands, this is where you come.
The Midlands Grand National is the big one. Run in March over four miles and two furlongs, it's a Listed handicap chase that tests stamina to the limit. Past winners include Rag Trade and Lord Gyllene — horses who went on to win the Grand National at Aintree. It's a proper trial for the big one, and trainers target it accordingly.
But Uttoxeter isn't just a one-day wonder. It's one of the few courses that keeps National Hunt racing going through the summer — when most tracks have switched to the flat, Uttoxeter is still jumping. That makes it a favourite with trainers who need to keep their horses ticking over, and with punters who can't get enough of the jumps.
What defines Uttoxeter is its compact, intimate feel. The stands sit close to the track, so you're right in the action. The crowd of around 5,000 creates a proper atmosphere without feeling overwhelming. It's the sort of place where you can have a good day out without the corporate gloss of the bigger venues.
This guide covers everything you need. The course layout, the key fixtures, the facilities, how to get there, and the practical details that'll help you plan your visit. Whether you're heading for the Midlands Grand National or a summer evening card, you'll find it all here.
The Course & Layout
Uttoxeter's layout is straightforward and purpose-built for jumping. The track is a left-handed oval of roughly a mile and two furlongs, designed specifically for National Hunt racing. There's no flat course here — Uttoxeter is jumps-only, and the layout reflects that.
The Chase Course
The chase course is the main track. It's a galloping oval with fair, stiff fences — nothing quirky, but they take jumping. The course has an open ditch and a water jump, and the fences are well maintained. Horses need to jump and stay. The long straight gives runners plenty of time to sort themselves out before the line, and the turns are sweeping rather than tight.
The key characteristic is the stamina test. The Midlands Grand National is run over four miles and two furlongs — that's nearly two full circuits. Horses that win here tend to be genuine stayers who relish a battle. The course doesn't have the dramatic undulations of somewhere like Cheltenham, but the distance and the fences take their toll.
The Hurdle Course
The hurdle course runs inside the chase track. It follows a similar route — left-handed, galloping — and the hurdles are standard. Uttoxeter stages plenty of hurdle races throughout the year, from novice events to competitive handicaps. The ground conditions apply equally to both courses.
Stands and Viewing
What sets Uttoxeter apart is how close the stands are to the action. You're right on top of the track. The parade ring, winner's enclosure and bookmakers are all within easy reach. It's a compact setup that makes for a lively, intimate atmosphere. For more on the enclosures and facilities, see our day out guide.
Ground Conditions
Uttoxeter's ground can vary. In winter and spring, you'll often see soft or heavy going — the Midlands Grand National has been run on testing ground more often than not. In summer, when Uttoxeter runs its summer jumping programme, the ground is typically good to soft or good. The course drains reasonably well, but heavy rain can make it testing. If you're betting, favour horses that handle the prevailing conditions.
Key Fixtures & Calendar
Uttoxeter's calendar revolves around the Midlands Grand National in March and the summer jumping programme that runs when most other tracks have switched to the flat. The course stages around 19 to 25 fixtures a year — all National Hunt.
Midlands Grand National Day
The biggest day of the year. The Midlands Grand National is run in March — usually the second or third Saturday of the month. It's a Listed handicap chase over four miles and two furlongs, and it attracts a full field of staying chasers. The supporting card includes quality handicaps and novice chases. Book early if you're planning to go — it's the most popular fixture of the year.
Summer Jumping
Uttoxeter is one of the few courses that keeps National Hunt racing going through the warmer months. The summer programme runs from May through August, with evening meetings and weekend cards. The ground is typically good to soft or good, and the racing is competitive. It's a favourite with trainers who need to keep horses fit between seasons, and with punters who prefer jumps to flat.
Winter and Spring Programme
Between October and April, Uttoxeter hosts regular National Hunt fixtures. Saturday cards tend to be stronger, with Listed and Premier Handicap races. Midweek meetings are more modest but still competitive. The ground is typically soft or heavy from November onwards, and the course earns its reputation as a stamina track.
Key Meetings
Aside from the Midlands Grand National, look out for the Uttoxeter Gold Cup meeting and various handicap chase days. The course doesn't host Grade 1 racing, but the quality is honest and the atmosphere is always good. For a full breakdown of what to expect on a visit, see our day out guide.
Facilities & Hospitality
Uttoxeter isn't huge, but it offers everything you need for a good day at the races. The course has three main enclosures — Centre Course, Grandstand and Premier — each with its own character and facilities.
Enclosures
The Centre Course gives you the closest view of the action. You're right by the track, with easy access to the parade ring and winner's enclosure. The Grandstand offers covered viewing and a more traditional racecourse feel. The Premier enclosure is the top tier — better views, private boxes in the Prince Edward and Staffordshire Stands, and access to the best hospitality.
Food and Drink
The 1907 Restaurant is named after the year the course opened — a nice touch. It offers table service and a good view of the racing. For something more casual, Wright's Pie & Fish and Chip Shop does exactly what it says on the tin. Marston's Bar serves drinks and light refreshments. There are also various kiosks and catering outlets around the course.
Hospitality
Private boxes in the Prince Edward and Staffordshire Stands are available for groups. They offer a dedicated space, catering options and a prime view of the track. For corporate events or special occasions, it's worth contacting the racecourse directly. The Midlands Grand National day is the most popular — book well in advance.
Practical Facilities
The course has toilets, first aid, bookmakers and Tote facilities. The layout is compact, so nothing is far away. Download the racecourse map from the website before you go — it'll help you find your way around. For more on what to wear and how to plan your visit, see our day out guide.
Getting to Uttoxeter
Uttoxeter is in rural Staffordshire, a few miles from the town centre. Driving is the most straightforward option for most visitors.
By Car
The course is on Wood Lane, Uttoxeter, postcode ST14 8BD. It's just off the A50, which links the M1 and M6. From the M6, leave at junction 15 (Stoke-on-Trent) and follow the A50 towards Uttoxeter. From the M1, leave at junction 24 and head west on the A50. Sat-nav will get you there — the course is well signposted once you're close.
By Train
Uttoxeter has a station on the Crewe to Derby line. It's about two miles from the course. There's no direct shuttle on race days, so you'll need a taxi or pre-booked transport. Services can be limited — check the timetable before you travel.
Parking
There's on-site parking at the course. It's free for most meetings, though the Midlands Grand National day can get busy. Arrive early if you're heading for the big day.
Frequently Asked Questions
More about this racecourse
The Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter: Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about the Midlands Grand National — Uttoxeter's signature staying handicap chase.
Read moreBetting at Uttoxeter Racecourse
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Read moreA Day Out at Uttoxeter Racecourse
Everything you need for a day at Uttoxeter — getting there, what to wear, enclosures, food and drink, and tips.
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