If you’re planning a day at the races, our Cartmel Races guide covers everything you need to know. From parking and what to wear, to where to eat, drink and explore in this beautiful corner of the South Lakes, there are lots of ways to enjoy Cartmel Races. Read below for some of our tried-and-tested favourites.
When and Where: Planning you Cartmel Races Visit
Cartmel racecourse opens each racing season for 9 days in the small village of Cartmel, in south Cumbria. The first race meet is in May (the Whit Weekend) and the last on the August bank holiday weekend.
Cartmel racecourse is presumed to date back to the 12th century when local monks raced mules across the sands to Lancaster. You won’t find any donkeys racing any more though. Thoroughbred horses are welcomed from around the UK and Ireland to take part in a lively afternoon of racing. The course is known for the beautiful, scenic setting and fun atmosphere which gives a picture perfect village, a carnival feel for a few weekends a year.
This is such a fun day out but everyone does it differently. You can dress up with hats and tails and enjoy the finest champagne, take your wellies and get up close and personal with the horses or let your kids run wild in the fun fair. Or do a bit of everything. We’ve tried every which way. This Cartmel Races guide will show you a few ways you could do it.
Two sides to Cartmel Races
You can pick which side to enjoy at Cartmel Racecourse. Both are packed with different food and drink options and activities.
The Paddock Enclosure
This side of the course offers access to the Parade ring area so you can see the horses up close and personal. You can bring your own food and drink to this area. There are also restaurants and premium packages you can choose from but expect premium prices too. You’ll find all your betting totes indoors and outdoors plus food vans and bars.
With the Paddock ticket I like the flexibility of being able to walk to both sides of the course. Then you get to experience everything on offer. Plus it’s great fun watching the horses in the ring area and picking your favourites that way.
Course Tickets
These tickets are located on the forest side of the course where the fairground can be found. There are packages available here but they’re more budget friendly – like picnic tables next to the track.
This side also hosts the resident Cartmel DJ who you’ll find playing tracks throughout the afternoon. There are more spots here to just pull up a picnic blanket – great if you have kids in tow. There is also a kids area next to the fun fair with trucks to ride, hay bales and other games.
Don’t worry though, you’ll still be able to get right next to the action with track side places to sit. There is also a huge screen to watch the days racing and seats available at the finish line.
If you book a ticket for Course Entry you won’t be able to walk across to the Paddock.
For full details of the packages head to the Cartmel Racecourse website.
What to bring to Cartmel Races
Well, that very much depends where you’re sitting and how you’re enjoying your day. If you’ve paid for a package with fine dining, you may not need much else. If not, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drink, picnic blankets, chairs, wind breaks and picnic furniture – think English beach vibes! We even bring toys and a football. Hats, brollies and binoculars all good too. Don’t forget your cash and cards for betting, although most totes do have card machines now.
Remember Cartmel Racecourse is in a valley, so the weather can turn – so I’d bring a waterproof and decent shoes in case. They try and keep the horses running through most weather – even rain.
Tickets – you can buy tickets on the day or in advance.
Getting There and Parking
Luckily for us and guests who stay at Pheasant Lodge, we can walk into Cartmel or even better drive our cars in first thing and for a track side spot. The walk down the main road is about 30 minutes. Beware no pavements and on the longer quieter route about 45 minutes by foot. Both routes are busier on race days with traffic, so we’d recommend setting off early from Pheasant Lodge to enjoy Cartmel and the race festivities beforehand.
By Car
We love the car option because it means we can take everything in the car early in the morning. Pick where we want to be on the race track and then drive home later. A real fuss free way to do it – especially if you’re a big party or have kids. You can park either side of the racecourse with this option – the Enclosure is slightly closer and easier for Pheasant Lodge guests.
If you’re not staying with us, Cartmel Racecourse is accessed from junction 36 of the M6 via the A590. There is always lots of signage up on the day and in advance to direct the traffic, so look out for that.
Taxi
Taxis are a great option if you all want to enjoy a tipple that day. There are several taxi companies in Cartmel but they do get booked up very early, so I recommend booking as soon as you know you’re attending. I’m always happy to share my taxi recommendations with guests.
Train
The nearest train stations are Cark in Cartmel and Grange Over Sands, both around 2 miles from the racecourse. There are shuttle buses running from Cark in Cartmel run by Travellers Choice.
What we do.
We’re big fans of driving down early with our car. We pack up a big picnic, chill our drinks and take plenty of ice and head off early in the morning (around 9am). Then we get a great spot, up close and personal as those horses speed past. Then come home to relax for a while and get ready, before heading back.
We then all walk down to Cartmel Village and enjoy drinks in the Cavendish before. The market square and Unsworth’s yard are always buzzing on race day but we like to pop in their after, hopefully celebrating a win.
The Cavendish has a gorgeous outdoor area right on the River Eea, with some undercover seating in case the rain makes an appearance. The food menu is excellent, and there’s a wide choice of gins and cocktails to enjoy. Grab your Racing Post, pick your favourites, and get set for a fantastic day at the races! If you’re looking for more inspiration in the local area, check out our local gems guide.
With our Cartmel Races guide, you’ll be all set to make the most of a day at Cartmel Racecourse. From picking your spot by the track to enjoying great food and drinks in the village. And the best part? Our holiday home is just a short stroll away, so you can soak up the atmosphere without worrying about a long journey home.
If you want to secure Pheasant Lodge for the next race days – do get in touch. Hannah x