Easter’s coming up, and with it, the never-ending challenge of keeping the kids entertained without breaking the bank. Lucky for you, Yorkshire’s nine racecourses have got something sorted for everyone, whether you’re wrangling kids, spending time with the grandkids, or just fancy a fun day out in the sun (hopefully, if the weather behaves).
Here’s what’s on offer this Easter across Yorkshire’s racecourses, from egg hunts to mascot races and everything in between.
Why horse racing days are perfect for families
Let’s be real—school holidays can be a logistical nightmare. You’re trying to find affordable activities that keep the kids busy and entertained for hours, not just the 45 minutes it takes them to finish their cereal and start whining about being bored again.
This is where a day at the races comes in handy. You’ve got live horse racing, loads of family-friendly activities, and—best of all—kids under 18 get in for FREE at all of Yorkshire’s racecourses. And if you’re over 66, you could be paying as little as £3.50 at certain venues. Honestly, finding something cheaper is like hunting for a unicorn.
Catterick: Easter fun and bouncy castles (Wednesday, 9th April)
Kicking off the fun, Catterick Racecourse is going big on Easter Wednesday, 9th April. It’s the start of their flat racing season, with seven races on the cards. But if horses aren’t enough to keep the kids happy, they’ve also got:
- Easter side stalls
- Bouncy castle and slides in the Course Enclosure
Gates open at 12 noon and the first race kicks off at 2.13pm. So, you’ve got plenty of time to have a chilled morning before heading down.
Pontefract: Free day out for grandparents (Monday, 14th April)
This one’s a gem for the grandparents. On Monday, 14th April, Pontefract Racecourse is offering a proper freebie with their OAP Free Day.
- If you’re over 60, you can snag a free Grandstand & Paddock ticket if you book in advance.
- And yep, under 18s are free, too!
Gates open at 12 noon, with the first race at 2.05pm. Just remember, they’ll check ID on entry, so don’t forget to bring proof of age.
Beverley: Peter Rabbit Easter Trail (Wednesday, 16th April)
The kids are going to love this one. Beverley Racecourse is hosting a Peter Rabbit Easter Trail on Wednesday, 16th April. The goal? Solve clues, find characters around the racecourse, and collect your Easter treat from Peter Rabbit himself!
- Free face painting in the Course Enclosure.
- Seven races to enjoy after all that bunny-hunting.
Gates open at 11.40am, with the first race at 1.40pm.
Ripon: Fire juggling and glitter tattoos (Thursday, 17th April)
If you’re after something a bit different, Ripon Racecourse is bringing all the razzle-dazzle on Thursday, 17th April. Besides the horse racing, expect:
- Bouncy castles
- Balloon modelling
- Face painting & glitter tattoos
- Fire juggling
Racing starts at 2pm, so get there early for all the pre-race fun.
Middleham: Yard open day (Good Friday, 18th April)
Ever wanted a peek behind the scenes of a proper racing yard? Well, on Good Friday, Middleham is opening the doors to nine racing yards between 9.30am and 1pm.
- Shuttle buses make it easy to get around.
- Tickets cost £12.50 for adults and £8.50 for concessions, with kids under 16 getting in free.
- Use the code GRIY20 to knock 20% off your ticket price when buying online.
After the yard visits, head to Low Moor for everything from horse parades to kids’ sports and inter-yard competitions.
Redcar: Easter Monday family fun (Monday, 21st April)
Redcar Racecourse has its big family day on Easter Monday, 21st April. We’re talking:
- Bouncy castles
- Playgrounds
- Face painting
- Visits from the Easter Bunny
Races start at 11.55am, but the fun kicks off way before that.
Wetherby: The Mascot Gold Cup (Sunday, 27th April)
Okay, this one’s a must-see. If you’re still hunting for fun after the official holidays, Wetherby Racecourse is hosting the Guinness World Record-holding Mascot Gold Cup on Sunday, 27th April.
- The mascot race happens around 1.30pm, about an hour before the horse racing begins at 2.30pm.
- Plus, there’s a National Festival Circus, horse-themed crafts, and massive inflatables to keep the kids buzzing.
Ready to plan your Easter outings?
Whether you’re all about watching the races or just looking for some fun activities to keep the family entertained, Yorkshire’s racecourses have you covered. And the best part? It’s all super affordable.
Just remember to double-check timings and get those free tickets sorted if you’re eligible. Now, here’s hoping the weather plays nice!
