There's nowhere quite like watching the racing with the South Downs behind you and the sea in view. If this is your first visit to Brighton Racecourse, our guide walks you through everything: tickets, dress code, and all the little details that make for a great day out.
Give our 10-minute intro video a watch to learn the race day basics, then explore the guide below for everything you need to know before visiting Brighton.
Click to watch the video
At Brighton Racecourse, we host high-energy Flat racing across the spring and summer months. You can browse our full fixture list on our What’s On calendar, where tickets can be purchased directly through our website, via our sales team, or through Seat Unique for VIP dining.
When booking, you can choose between our distinct enclosures to match your day out:
To see how our coastal track compares nationally, read A Guide to UK Racecourses.
Dressing for the races is all about personal choice, and while smart attire is popular, our primary aim is that you feel comfortable and confident throughout the day. Many of our guests love dressing up for big summer fixtures like our three-day festival.
Different enclosures may have specific dress codes (especially in hospitality suites) so please check information when booking your ticket. As we race from spring through to autumn, packing suncream and sunglasses for those coastal sunny days on Race Hill is essential. Be aware that standard admission areas are largely standing and outdoor, so sensible shoes will keep you comfortable all afternoon. Don't worry if a sea breeze rolls in, as we have plenty of indoor spaces where you can stay sheltered with a drink in hand.
Gates usually open two hours prior to the opening race, giving you plenty of opportunity to arrive early, grab a bite, and enjoy the coastal views.
Timings change depending on the fixture, so please double-check your event page on our website before setting off.
Entry is smooth and simple - just present your e-ticket on your smartphone or bring a printed copy to be scanned at the turnstiles. General admission offers unreserved seating and standing room along the rails, so if you want dedicated seating, explore our VIP options.
Between races, soak in the atmosphere, explore the bars, and brush up on key lingo with our Starter Guide to Racing Terms.
Whether you choose the traditional rails bookies or Tote betting points around the course, placing a small wager can add extra excitement to your afternoon. To pick your runners, pick up a racecard on arrival and check horse form and stats.
You can learn more about how pool betting works by visiting our dedicated Betting at Brighton hub, exploring our online Horse Racing Betting Guide, and studying How to Read a Horse Race Card. Please ensure you gamble responsibly and keep it fun.
From trackside bars to vibrant street food outlets, there are plenty of casual places to grab a bite or a refreshing drink during your visit.
For those wanting a VIP race day, our hospitality options deliver fantastic dining alongside prime views. If you have already secured a general admission ticket but decide you’d like to upgrade, simply get in touch with our team prior to the event.
Picnics are allowed in the Grandstand & Paddock external areas of the Racecourse but not in the Premier Enclosure. No drinks can be brought into the racecourse.
There are plenty of ways to reach Race Hill, and you can find complete transport links, bus schedules, and train routes on our Getting Here page. Ample free parking is available on site, but given how popular race days are, please leave extra time for entering and leaving the course to navigate the busier roads.
We are fully committed to accessibility, with key facilities listed on our accessibility page. Feel free to contact our team beforehand for any bespoke requirements, or simply ask a steward trackside.
Brighton's track layout is truly distinct, running as an undulating horseshoe, but it is also famous for a remarkable course record: the legendary Pour La Victoire achieved a stunning 11 victories right here between 2013 and 2021.
Did you know that the shortest distance a horse can win by is a nose, measuring just 0.05 of a length?
Discover more fascinating facts with our Horse Racing Trivia and Our Sport in Numbers.
Attending the races is an exciting and welcoming experience for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned racegoer or a first-time visitor, the vibrant atmosphere and thrilling races promise a memorable day out.
We encourage you to book your tickets in advance so you can start planning your race day. For more information, check out our race schedules, ticket booking, and hospitality options.
