Chelmsford Racecourse Guide

One of the busiest racecourses in the UK, if you are planning a trip to the races at Chelmsford in this new year, you have come to the right place. We have put together this guide to help you make the most of your day, including how to get here, what to wear, food and drink, contact details and where to stay.

What’s on at Chelmsford Racecourse?

There are so many exciting races at Chelmsford Racecourse throughout the year. With daytime and evening races, there is something for everyone. Below, we have included some of the top racing events taking place in 2024.

What is the Chelmsford Racecourse Address?

The address of Chelmsford Racecourse is as follows:

Chelmsford City Racecourse

Great Leighs

Chelmsford

Essex

CM3 1QP

How to Get to Chelmsford Racecourse?

Chelmsford Racecourse is nestled in the heart of the Essex countryside, 50 miles from Central London. It is easily accessible by most public transport methods.

By Road

Situated in Great Leighs, the racecourse is five miles north of Chelmsford.

It can be accessed via the A131, A120 and the M11. The car park can be accessed via the main entrance off the A131 bypass.

*It is advised to enter Chelmsford City Racecourse into Google Maps, as the postcode is not compatible with some Sat Navs.

By Taxi

Approximately a 20-minute drive in a taxi from Chelmsford railway station and 10 minutes from Braintree railway station.

By Bus & Train

There are two public buses from Chelmsford Bus Station, the No. 70 & No. 352. 

The bus station is a short walk from the railway station.

The course is accessible from both Chelmsford train station and Braintree.

*The racecourse does not recommend accessing on foot from Great Leighs due to the busy nature of the A131.

By Air

The closest airport is Stansted – approx a 20-minute drive in a taxi.

Where to Get Tickets?

Tickets for the races can be purchased online from the Chelmsford racecourse website and at the gate. There is a discount on tickets offered via the Blue Light website.

Accessibility

Only assistance dogs are permitted at the racecourse. There is free car and coach parking available, as well as accessible parking for blue badge holders. The racecourse is wheelchair-friendly, and personal assistants are admitted FOC. Auditory assistance is available with Counter Loops installed at the ticket office, reception and grandstand.There is a dedicated viewing area that looks out onto the track.

Chelmsford Racecourse Enclosures

Grandstand Enclosure

Home to the Sports Bar and Grill Kitchen, racegoers in the Grandstand can enjoy a casual dress code with some great food on offer, all right at the heart of the racing action.

Club Enclosure

An exceptional location to enjoy the racing and hospitality at Chelmsford racecourse, racegoers are expected to dress smartly for the occasion. Enjoy some classic British Cuisine in the Club Restaurant and relax in the Lounge with a top-quality wine menu.

What to Wear?

Chelmsford Races offers an informal dress code for general admissions but also encourages racegoers to embrace the experience and dress up. 

There is a casual dress code in the Grandstand and Sports Bar; however, it is requested that the following be avoided.

• Flip flops/backless sandals/shoes.
• Team shirts.
• Vests/bare arm tops.
• Swimwear.

In the Fairwood Restaurant, the same standards apply, and it is asked that shorts and trainers are not worn.

The Club Restaurant & Lounge operate a strict smart dress code – it is asked that racegoers adhere to the following:

• Gentlemen: collared jacket, shirt and tie.
• Ladies should dress for smart occasions.
• Smart jeans are permitted – not be ripped or torn.
• Trainers are not permitted of any kind.
• Shorts are not permitted of any kind.

Fancy dress is permitted on standard race days – the racecourse reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone deemed to be dressed inappropriately or offensively.

Food & Drink

Picnics are not permitted at Chelmsford Racecourse; however, there is a variety of food and drink venues and concessions available for racegoers. Menus can be provided in advance by contacting the racecourse.

Sports Bar

Within the Sports Bar is the Grill Kitchen. This serves a variety of casual food choices.

The Club Restaurant & Lounge

British Cuisine – sample menus can be found on the Chelmsford Racecourse website.

Fairwood Brasserie

Cold meats, fresh seafood, and much more.

Contact Details

Nearby Accommodation

There are plenty of places to stay for racegoers who wish to stay the night. We have included some details of these below.

Holiday Inn Express Braintree

Panners Roundabout, Notley Cross, Braintree, CM77 7AB

0333 320 9359

[email protected]

The Compasses

The Compasses, Littley Green, Chelmsford, CM3 1BU

01245 362308

[email protected]

White Hart Hotel by Greene King Inns

Bocking End, Braintree, CM7 9AB

01376 321401

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