Leger 250: Everything you need to know about historic meeting
The world’s oldest Classic horse race is back in Doncaster this week
The countdown is nearly over - Doncaster’s historic 250th St Leger is nearly upon us.
The 250th anniversary of the Betfred St Leger Festival gets underway at Doncaster Racecourse this week, with four days of racing, entertainment, fashion and celebrations set to take over the city from Thursday 10 - Sunday 13 September.
With thousands of racegoers expected to attend the Festival, those heading to the Racecourse are being encouraged to plan ahead and know what to expect before arriving.
What to expect across the four days
The Festival gets underway on Thursday 10 September with Betfred Ladies Day, combining world-class flat racing with fashion and entertainment. Gates open at 11:15am, with the first race at 1:15pm and the last at 5:20pm.
Alongside eight races, including the May Hill Stakes, racegoers can take part in the Ladies Day Style Awards, with more than £2,500 worth of prizes on offer.
Doncaster-born fashion and lifestyle influencer Daisy Tomlinson will join the judging panel alongside TV personality Mark Wright, following the launch of this year’s official St Leger Style Guide.
The Meadowhall x Flannels Beauty Bar will be located at the Champagne Lawn in the County Enclosure, offering beauty treatments and touch-ups throughout the day.
After racing, Mark will take to the Champagne Lawn for a live DJ set, with live music and roaming performers adding to the atmosphere throughout the day.
Friday 11 September brings Betfred Gents Day, with gates opening at 11:15am, the first race at 1:15pm and the last at 5:20pm.
The day features eight races, with the historic Betfred Doncaster Cup taking centre stage.
The Leger Legends Classified Stakes, Britain’s only charity race for retired professional jockeys, will also take place on Friday this year, raising funds for the Injured Jockeys Fund.
EastEnders icon John Altman will also be there on the day, while visitors can speak to the team from Andy’s Man Club as part of the day’s focus on men’s wellbeing.
After the racing, Ellie Sax Presents Ibiza Anthems Live will bring a live sax performance and dance anthems to the Champagne Lawn.
The Festival reaches its centrepiece on Saturday 12 September with Betfred St Leger Day marking the 250th running of the world’s oldest Classic.
Gates open at 10:30am, with the first race at 1:10pm and the last at 5:23pm, with eight races taking place throughout the day.
As well as the historic Betfred St Leger Stakes itself, racegoers can enjoy a live DJ set from Jordan North on the Champagne Lawn after racing.
In the Exhibition Hall, The Everly Pregnant Brothers will perform for approximately 60 minutes, beginning 10 minutes after racing, while artist in residence Rebecca Wright will create a live painting capturing the atmosphere and spectacle of the 250th anniversary.
The Festival concludes on Sunday 13 September with Betfred Sunday Funday.
Gates open at 11:25am, with the first race at 1:25pm and the final race at 4:50pm.
Alongside the day's seven races, Sunday Funday will offer a dedicated programme of family entertainment, including appearances from Chase and Skye from PAW Patrol at 12pm, 2:15pm and 4:15pm, as well as a treasure hunt, colouring and crafts, family arts activities, a roving museum, fun fair rides available for an additional charge, and appearances from the Doncaster Rovers Foundation.
Plan ahead for your visit
Racegoers are encouraged to plan their journey and check the latest information before setting off.
Gates open two hours before the first race on Thursday, Friday and Sunday, and two and a half hours before the first race on Saturday.
Race times can change, so visitors should check the latest information before travelling.
Doncaster Racecourse is two miles from Doncaster railway station, with a shuttle service running between Doncaster Interchange and the Racecourse on major race days.
For those travelling by car, the Racecourse has links to the M1, M18, A1(M) and M62, with the postcode DN2 6BB.
Parking charges apply in Car Park C during the Betfred St Leger Festival.
Security checks will be in operation at every entrance, and visitors should ensure they are familiar with the Racecourse’s rules on bags and what can be brought onto the site.
Once inside, racegoers can use the Racecourse map to find key areas including the Winners Enclosure and Pre-Parade Ring, hospitality areas, food and drink outlets, toilets and parking.
Dress for the weather
With the racing predominantly taking place outdoors, racegoers are encouraged to check the forecast before setting off and dress accordingly.
Whether that means sun cream and a hat or an umbrella and an extra layer, coming prepared for the British weather will help visitors make the most of their day.
Indoor concourses are also available throughout the Racecourse, providing covered areas for visitors to take a break from the elements when needed.
The Racecourse offers a range of accessibility facilities, including designated accessible parking, accessible viewing areas, toilets and lifts, with wheelchairs and mobility scooters welcome.
Personal assistants accompanying paying guests with accessibility needs can also receive free admission. Visitors who require additional assistance are encouraged to contact the Racecourse ahead of their visit.
With the 250th anniversary of the Betfred St Leger providing an extra reason to celebrate, this year's Festival promises four memorable days at Doncaster Racecourse.