1. DECODING THE DRESS CODE
From Ladies Day to the Winter Festival, two separate events can have a very different feel. Don’t make a stab in the dark on what to wear and to take with you. Instead, give the racecourse team a call before you leave home so you turn up appropriately prepared.
Flat or wedged shoes are advisable to save from sinking into the lawn.
2. HATS OFF!
For ladies sporting an extravagant hat at the front of the crowd, spare a thought for your fellow racegoers – an elaborate hat might block their view of the action.
3. HAVING A FLUTTER
Eavesdrop in the Parade Ring chat between owners and trainers about the day’s likely winners. It is quite acceptable to chat up the Totes to give you a tip off – this is a great way to start building your racetrack form.
4. POISED IN THE PARADE RING
Refrain from approaching your favourite filly – even friendly looking horses shouldn’t be approached unless the trainer or jockey invites you to.
5. KNOW YOUR HORSE
Familiarise yourself with your horse’s colours which can be found in the programme to ensure you are cheering for the right horse when the race begins.
6. TRACKSIDE MANNERS
Once the race has started you can find your voice. Get behind your horse with a roof-raising cheer as he passes.
7. MAKING THE MOST OF THE MIX
While the main attraction is, of course, watching your horse cross the finishing line, a day at the races holds so much more potential. Why not head to the sumptuous surrounds of the Hennessy to enjoy a five star meal or keep it simple with brunch and Bloody Marys in the Brasserie?
8. SPOT OF TEA
Enjoy Newbury Racecourse’s newly launched quintessentially British afternoon tea in The Brasserie, with homemade cakes from a Michelin award winning chef.
Whilst the norm is to eat savoury before sweet, enjoy The Brasserie’s delicious tier of treats in anyway you choose – why not start with the delicate handmade cakes and make your way down through the traditional scones and savoury finger sandwiches?
9. BAR BEHAVIOUR
Pace yourself. It's a long afternoon, so break up your forays to the racetrack, the winning post or the winner's enclosure with a chance to sit down, relax and enjoy the refreshments on offer.
For relaxed seating and a balcony overlooking the parade ring, try the newly refurbished Long Bar or for cocktails, there’s ‘1905’ in the Hampshire Stand.
10. THE WINNING FEELING
Celebrate a win…with a glass of champagne of course!
Don’t miss the celebration in the winner’s enclosure after the race but keep your winner’s whoops down to a whisper while the interviews with the jockey and owner take place.