Hamilton Races

The Scottish town of has a notable and noble history and much of that history is detailed in the buildings and sites which remain as a testament to the influence of the Hamilton family after which the town was named. Horseracing in Hamilton dates back to Georgian times and a permanent base for the sport, Hamilton Racecourse, was established and opened in 1926. It has been a popular flat racing venue ever since, and Hamilton races are well attended and the top fixtures are accompanied by some first class hospitality and often additional live entertainment too.

The history of Hamilton Racecourse has included some notable firsts in the world of horseracing. Evening races, very much a popular feature at Hamilton, were introduced in 1947, the first course in the world to do so.

Seven evening meetings are held throughout the season at the course, the most popular being the Saints and Sinners Charity Meeting, hosted in June each year. Another first for Hamilton was introducing a morning race meeting in 1971.

While the evening meetings offer opportunities for enjoying the social side of racing at Hamilton, particularly in themed nights when a range of entertainment is laid on, as racing goes the signature race of the flat season at the course is the Listed Glasgow Stakes.

Contested by colts and geldings at three years old, the Glasgow Stakes has provided an effective trial run for the Epsom Derby, with Commander in Chief achieving notable success in both during the 1993 season.

Hamilton has an unusual track; a long straight with a right-handed looped section at one end, similar to the track at Goodwood. The straight is 6 furlongs and uphill all the way to the wining post leading to close and exciting finishes, a feature for which Hamilton races are renowned. High draws are a good bet over the longer distances, especially on soft ground, common at the start of the season. While most racecourses tend to favour home-trained talent, southern trained horses have a good record at Hamilton.

There are 2 main areas from which to enjoy the top Hamilton races, the Grandstand Enclosure and Club Enclosure. The latter of these has the better views over the track including viewing directly over the winning post, perfect for catching all the action on those exciting close finishes.

Also contained within the Club Enclosure are superb drinks and dining facilities, Dukes Restaurant and the Champagne Bar. A popular feature of Hamilton races is the services of a tipster, who will be offering their advice in Dukes Bar and hour or so prior to the first race.

Those with Club Enclosure badges can access the facilities and features of the Grandstand too, which includes the Conservatory Bistro, a popular family restaurant.

The Grandstand provides good views over the course and ticket holders can enjoy all the facilities of the Paddock Lawn such as the barbecue area, laid on for the Super Six meetings, and children’s play area, which is open during all race days. The Grandstand enclosure is the ideal choice for a family fun day out.

There are plenty of opportunities for having a flutter at Hamilton Racecourse. The traditional method is by assessing all the fixed odds offered by the bookies within the bookmakers ring and since this requires some personal involvement it certainly adds to the excitement of betting. An alternative method is provided by the Totepool Kiosks; where rather than fixed odds you place a bet and then share in the good fortune with all those who picked the same winning horse. Ideal for newcomers to racing, Tote betting is easy and can provide all the excitement of betting on the horses for as little as £2.

Dining is very much a part of race day for many and some fine dining in particular makes the ideal accompaniment to fine racing, especially when sharing it with friends, family, clients or colleagues. Each enclosure has its own restaurant facility and within the Club Enclosure, Dukes Restaurant combines superb menus and stylish surrounds with panoramic views over the course.

Prior booking is essential for Dukes Restaurant and should be made at least a week before the intended race day. Dukes is also a bar facility within the Club Enclosure with further drinks options provides by the Silks, and Brandon Bar.

The Conservatory Bistro is the signature restaurant within the Grandstand Enclosure and offers informal dining for all the family.

Snacks and sandwiches are also available within Cat’s Bar, with other bars including the Panorama Bar, popular for watching the races and placing bets, and Bravehearts, a popular haunt in between each race. When the weather is good and the bars are busy, a great option is the bottle bars on the Paddock Lawn, which also has seating and barbecue areas.

Tickets for Hamilton races start from just £12 per person and all tickets can be booked in advance of all race meetings. Group discounts apply for 20 people or more. Hospitality packages are available and for groups of 6 or more the Five Star Package incorporates admission, official race programme, racing guide, something from the barbecue washed down with a wine or beer, and a Tote voucher for £2.

A full range of corporate hospitality options are available too in a selection of superb environments, from private boxes to marquees. Fully inclusive packages will allow all guests to enjoy race day in style whatever the size of the party and whether for business or a special celebration.

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