Bath Racecourse, perched on Lansdown Hill in Somerset, is one of England's most storied and picturesque thoroughbred racing venues. Located just over three miles northeast of Bath, this iconic track is operated by the Arena Racing Company and is renowned for its unique features. With a left-handed oval track stretching 1 mile, 4 furlongs, and 25 yards, the racecourse boasts a nearly half-mile run-in. The home straight, a challenging 4 furlongs with a steady rise and turn, adds extra excitement to every race held here. Notably, Bath Racecourse is the highest flat racecourse in Britain, sitting at an impressive 780 feet above sea level, contributing to its distinctive racing conditions, particularly during dry summers when the lack of watering facilities can result in very firm ground.
Racing at Bath has deep historical roots, dating back to 1728. The Blathwayt family hosted the first major meet at the course in 1811, marking the beginning of its transformation into a beloved racing destination. Initially, the racecourse held only one meeting a year, but over time, this grew to the current 22 meets annually. The Somerset Stakes, a highlight of the early racing calendar, continues to be a significant event today. This race has a colorful history, with the 1844 edition being particularly memorable when the Duke of Richmond’s horse, Red Deer, claimed victory, later winning the Chester Cup.
The racecourse has seen many changes over the centuries, including its use as a landing field for the Royal Air Force during World War II, when it was temporarily renamed RAF North Stoke. The post-war years brought their drama, most famously in 1953, when a criminal gang attempted to defraud the bookmakers in a plot involving horse substitution and a power outage. This infamous episode was thwarted, and those responsible were brought to justice, adding a layer of intrigue to Bath’s already rich history.
The 1970s marked a period of significant development for Bath Racecourse, with a major rebuilding effort that saw the closure of the course in 1971 and 1972. The June meetings during these years were moved to Newmarket, but the improvements laid the foundation for future success. More recently, in 2015–2016, the racecourse underwent a major redevelopment funded by the Arena Racing Company. This included aesthetic updates with bands of buttermilk and French grey, the revamping of the parade ring, and the opening of the Beckford Bar. The new Langridge Grandstand, which opened in July 2016, features a canopied roof garden offering spectacular views of the races and serves as a versatile venue for corporate events, dinners, and weddings on non-race days.
In 2024, Bath Racecourse continues to thrive, with 20 fixtures scheduled between April and October. The combination of its rich history, challenging track, and modern facilities makes Bath Racecourse a must-visit destination for racing enthusiasts and a cherished landmark in Somerset’s sporting landscape.
