Wincanton Racecourse is the place to head this spring with fabulous jump racing action combined with superheroes, cheese, cider, and fashion!
But before the season reaches its climax with three themed not-to-be-missed dates, it’s meetings on February 27th and March 7th will whet the appetite ahead of the spring festivals with pre-booked tickets available from just £12, while on Monday, March 25th and Wednesday April 3rd, see for yourself what the buzz is all about with a day at the races.
General manager Huw Williams said: “With the arrival of the spring festivals, it’s the time of year when racing grabs all the headlines, and these three meetings offer a great opportunity to come along and see what it’s all about. We offer free behind the scenes tour and trips to the start too which give a real insight into our sport.”
To make it a day to remember, enjoy a fine dining experience in Chasers Restaurant with its unrivalled views across the course. The cost is just £85 per person for a fabulous three-course meal, so whether you want to spoil a loved one, or impress an important client, Chasers Restaurant is the place for an experience to remember.
The season at Wincanton reaches is crescendo with its three remaining meetings. Family Fun Day on Sunday, April 14th is one for the Easter bucket list. It’s free for under 18s and the racecourse is encouraging everyone to come along dressed as a super hero and enjoy a host of free activities like face painting, rosette making and the chance to jump on a mechanical horse.
Racing features the prestigious The McCreery Military handicap Hurdle (for Military Amateur Riders) sponsored by John and Doone Chatfeild-Roberts and the military theme will be continued with activities for super heroes.
Huw Williams said: “This is a really great day out for all the family. There’s always plenty to see and do, including the chance for children, and adults, to hone their jockey skills on our mechanical horse! Its much harder than it looks!”
Ladies Night on Thursday, May 9th is when the elegance of racing will come to the fore for an evening of sunshine, racing and the chance to sparkle.
It’s one of the most glamorous events on Somerset’s social calendar when a touch of Royal Ascot pervades this rural part of the county.
Collaboration with Clarks Village means there are spectacular prizes on offer for the best-dressed ladies. So dust off your best frocks, press your shirt collars and really enjoy a spring day out against the backdrop of six action-packed races. After racing, there will be musical entertainment too to tap your toes to and get into the spirit of an unforgettable evening.
When it comes to cheese and cider, Somerset leads the way, and on Tuesday, May 14th, Wincanton racecourse will be celebrating the county’s most famous exports at its Cheese and Cider night.
Live music and seven races will add to the all-round feeling of celebration as leading brands make their wears known to the racing public. There’ll be an eclectic range to taste, each taking its flavour from Somerset’s rolling countryside.
Huw Williams said: “After last year’s resounding success at our inaugural Cheese and Cider night, we are very excited about the chance to combine two of Somerset greatest exports with a fabulous night out at the races.
“If your tastebuds yearn for more than a good cheddar, there will be plenty of sample to try, all produced in Somerset.”
To wash it down there’ll be tastings of cider, from apples sown, grown and harvested in the county. Tickets for the evening cost from just £12.
It’s also the concluding fixture for the season at Wincanton before racing returns in October, but golfing enthusiasts are always welcome at its nine hole golf course.
With its wonderful views over Somerset and Dorset, and its greens, fairways, tees and bunkers diligently cared for by a dedicated team of groundstaff, it is popular with both beginners and experienced players alike.
The 9-hole course doubled up to 18 and par 70, has developed into an excellent test of golf for all levels of ability, since opening in 1994. Bushes, bunkers and an extra nine tee off areas have been introduced, as well as a well-stocked pro shop, catering for all standards of golfers and a cafeteria situated in the picturesque historical barn within the racecourse boundaries.
The course is open all year round, so whether you want to fit in nine holes, or play a full round of 18, Wincanton Golf Course is perfect to fit into any lifestyle whatever the time of year.
Huw Williams said: “It’s a bit of a hidden gem in the Somerset countryside but once golfers come along they’re smitten. The views are wonderful, and it’s a great place to play, whether you want to spend a few hours here, or have a quick round to get the shoulder blades moving!”
Golf lessons are available via PGA Golf Professional and membership is available for players wishing to obtain a handicap and play in competitions.
Golf societies are also welcome and catered for. Accommodation available above the golf club house and can help organise golf breaks/holidays.
