Horse racing remains the UK’s second most popular spectator sport, behind football, and is a tradition that is vital to British culture.

With the historic home of British racing, Newmarket less than an hour’s drive away, residents of Harlow are in a great position to enjoy some of the UK’s best racecourses.

Why Horse Racing Is A Great Day Out

The quality and competitive nature of local horse racing is not the only attractive element of a day out at the races.

Horse racing has a loyal core of seasoned fans who think they can spot the next Frankel, but it also attracts a wide range of casual spectators

That is due to the atmosphere away from the course with the racing a perfect opportunity to socialise and take the family.

There is a wide range of entertainment that will keep kids interested while the fashion on display at the big meets always catches the eye.

Chelmsford City Racecourse – The Local Favourite

If you do not want to venture up to Newmarket, Chelmsford City Racecourse is closer to home, just 20-25 minutes by car from Harlow.

It may not be as big of a name as Newmarket, but Chelmsford City is a great option for those venturing to the races for the first time.

Known as Great Leighs when it became the first new racetrack in the UK since 1927 when it opened in 2008, the course fell into administration the following year.

It took six years for it to reopen and now hosts two Listed races each year. New for 2026, Chelmsford City racecourse will host racing over the Easter weekend.

Newmarket – The Home Of British Racing

Less than an hour’s drive away from Harlow, you’ll find Newmarket, home of two iconic racecourses – the Rowley Mile and July Course.

Newmarket is perfect for those looking to get a taste of the tradition of British horse racing and features on many fans’ bucket list racing experiences.

Newmarket hosts nine of Britain’s 31 Group 1 races including the 1000 and 2000 Guineas, Falmouth Stakes, July Cup and away from the track, you can check out the National Horseracing Museum.

It is the birthplace of organised racing with the course founded in 1636 and the town is commonly referred to as HQ due to the number of trainers based in the local area.

In 1671, Charles II became the only reigning monarch to ride a winner in the Newmarket Town Plate.

Other Options: Epsom & Ascot

Harlow residents are well-placed for racing beyond Chelmsford City and Newmarket.

Epsom Downs in Surrey is just over an hour away in the car and is home to one of the most famous Flat races in the world – the Epsom Derby.

Ascot is 90 minutes away and is the home of the iconic Royal Ascot which is well-known for its prestige and style and attendance by the Royal Family.

Making The Most of Your Visit

While a lot of racecourses are accessible via car from Harlow, make sure you check parking arrangements before you travel.

Racecourses are usually outside of the town and you may need to pre-book a parking space before arriving at the course.

Tickets and food and drink at the racecourses can also be expensive but many courses allow you to bring your own so check that beforehand and pack a picnic.

Finally, if you’re planning a trip to the races, it is worth checking the latest horse racing tips so you know which horses to back.

Harlow is perfectly placed to take in exciting local races as well as offering a base to explore some of Britain’s most iconic tracks like Epsom and Ascot, offering a plethora of opportunities for a memorable day at the races.