Newmarket Racecourses have been named one of Britain’s leading racecourses after achieving an excellence rating in the Racecourse Association’s (RCA) 2025 Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme (QARS).

The historic venue was one of just 14 racecourses nationwide to score 90% or higher in independent raceday assessments carried out by the AA, the UK’s leading provider of professional hospitality accreditation. The national average raceday experience score increased to 85.7% in 2025, making Newmarket’s result a standout achievement.

In addition to the overall excellence rating, Newmarket was awarded two prestigious RCA Excellence Accolades for Warmest Welcome and Staff Customer Service, recognising exceptional standards delivered by their raceday teams. Benchmarks for the awards are deliberately set high to recognise the very best practice across British racecourses.

Assessments take place through unannounced visits, with inspectors reviewing every aspect of the raceday experience including arrival and welcome, food & beverage quality, cleanliness and overall service.

 

Sophie Able, Newmarket Racecourses and International Director, said: “Our team is constantly striving to deliver excellence in every aspect of the raceday experience.

“From the moment customers arrive at Newmarket Racecourses, our focus is on ensuring they receive the highest quality service in a welcoming and professional environment.

“To be recognised nationally for both Warmest Welcome and Staff Customer Service is a proud moment for everyone involved and reflects our ongoing commitment to raising standards year after year.”

 

The 2025 results underline continued investment in raceday experience across British racing, with Jockey Club Racecourses accounting for half of the 14 venues nationwide to achieve excellence status.

 

For more information about upcoming racedays and events at Newmarket Racecourses, visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/newmarket.