RACEGOERS are gearing up for the first in this year’s series of meets at Cumbria’s premier racecourse this weekend.

Cartmel Races will start their season on Saturday 28 and hold two more meets on Monday May 30 and Wednesday June 1, coinciding with the half term holidays.

Known for its welcoming, carnival atmosphere, families and people of all ages are expected to flock to the course with their picnics and barbecues to make a day of it.

Speaking ahead of the season, racecourse director Geraldine McKay, said: “We’re really excited to be welcoming back racegoers for our 2022 season.

“Cartmel really is a course like no other, partly thanks to our beautiful location, but also because of the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that our visitors help create.

“As usual we’ve got a host of delicious food and drink options, trade stalls and the funfair, all of which make for a fantastic day out for families during half-term.

“Looking at today’s entries we are delighted to see some fabulous support from owners and trainers from throughout the country – it is looking like there will be some tremendous challenges on the track.”

Gates will open at 9am on all race days and, for those who aren’t bringing their own picnic, the Louis Roederer Restaurant will open at 11.30am.

Also on offer will be a host of food and drink stands, a funfair and, of course, the all important races.

Later in the season, punters can also look forward to a special post-race concert with singer David Gray on Friday June 24 and a DJ set from Kaiser Chiefs frontman and The Voice judge Ricky Wilson on Saturday July 16.

How to get there:

  • Leave the M6 at junction 36 and take the A590 towards Barrow until you reach the turn off for High Newton, then follow the yellow event signs.
  • Parking is available on site. For details or to book visit the ‘plan your visit’ section of the racecourse website.
  • By train, travel to Cark-in-Cartmel then take a taxi. Taxis will be in demand so it is advised to book in advance.

Where to stay:

  • Lots of hotels and B&Bs are available in the area. For more information see the ‘plan your visit’ section of the racecourse website.
  • Four camping areas are available at the racecourse, plus space for caravans and motorhomes but these fill up quickly. Find out more on the racecourse website.

Safety information:

  • The parkland around the course has beautiful ancient oak trees, but it is not a good idea to sit beneath or climb on them as they can break.
  • Children are free to paddle in the beck which flows through the Paddock Enclosure, but please ensure they are supervised. The beck is also not suitable for washing up or drinking as animals use it up and downstream.
  • First aid posts are situated in the Paddock and course enclosures.

Barbeques:

  • Barbeques are welcomed but they must be extinguished 30 minutes before racing begins to ensure the horses are not affected by the smoke.
  • Take care not to scorch the grass by using stones, and dispose of your barbeque in a metal bin when it is fully extinguished.
  • Gas barbecues and canisters are not permitted.

What to wear:

  • Smart casual dress in the Paddock Enclosure, and shirts in all other enclosures. Otherwise, dress for comfort and the weather.