Hamilton Park Racecourse
Out of all of Glasgow’s attractions, Hamilton Park Racecourse is one of the most iconic. Now a pillar of Britain’s flat racing scene; the first races on the course were held all the way back in 1782!
Over the flat racing season (May-October) Hamilton Park host 18 racedays. Tickets start at around £17 for basic entry - or £30 for a package which includes a programme and burger. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience why not try the Dukes Package (£68pp) which includes a 3 course meal and wine?
Going to the races is traditionally an excuse to dress up to the nines; and Hamilton Park is no different. We may be past the days were no gentleman would dare attend without a full tweed suit the elaborate outfits are part of racing’s charm. Guests are told there is no formal dress code (save a prohibition on sports kit and trainers), but backs this up with advice that the lawn is “perfectly suitable for heels”. If you really want to glam up, try going to a Ladies Night where fashion will rival racing as the principal activity!
Before a race begins, participating horses will be led around the Parade Ring for general inspection. Gamblers look for a shiny coat, muscle tone and bright, alert eyes in a champion horse - but even if you don’t take betting too seriously the feverishly excited atmosphere is worth experiencing.
Within the racecourse you’ll also find a number of bookmakers, should you wish to wager on a race. Although most of the chalkboards have been replaced with video terminals you can still witness some of the famous black magic of an old fashioned betting pit. As large bets are placed and odds change the odds offered by bookies move like a tide - rising and receding together through some strange, unspoken mechanism.
Gambling on horse races is an age old tradition and, if you’ve not experienced it before, it may be worth trying out before you land in the carnage of a race meet! If you want to learn more try Coral’s racing news service, which has information, tips and form guides to help get you started.
But you don’t need to watch a race to get a racetrack experience; Hamilton Park hosts parties, events and exhibitions throughout the year. This year events include a Mother’s Day meal and several wedding shows, but be sure to check the events page for exciting days out throughout the year.
Hamilton Park is a venue which, to some at least, is comparable in stature to Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge. There is simply nothing which grips a crowds attention like a tightly fought race and experiencing that first hand is an opportunity not to be missed.
