Want to know what goes into the flat racing season? Keep reading as we explore the 2023 flat racing season, with info on the dates, races, and horses to watch out for. Plus, find out how you can attend some of the races in style.

The beginning of the flat racing season is coming up, which means some of the biggest horse racing events of the year will be arriving soon.

With the most famous coming over the spring and summer seasons, we are here to give you the lowdown on all things flat racing so that you will be a true expert by the time you head to a race day.

From key facts through to the season calendar and horses to watch out for, we tell you everything you need to know to become a flat race specialist. Plus, find out how you can make your trip to the races even better by attending the races in style with premium hospitality packages from Seat Unique.

The Basics

A horse in full gallop
Photo by Mike Kotsch / Unsplash

What is flat racing?

Flat races are simply races that do not include any obstacles. The race distances are between five furlongs and two miles.

Most flat races are run on grass. However, some are run on synthetic or all-weather turf. This is so that the races can be run in any condition.

When is the flat racing season?

Flat racing is technically held all year round, but it does have its specific season with the major events during the year.

That season starts in mid/late March and runs until mid/late November.

When and where does the flat racing season start?

The first event to kick off the flat racing season is held at Haydock Park Racecourse on 29th April. The Afternoon Racing event will be a welcome celebration back to the season.

When and where does the flat racing season end?

As mentioned, flat racing happens all year round. However, the final flat race of the 2023 season that you can get your hands on with Seat Unique will again be at Haydock Park with the Flat Finale Afternoon Racing on 20th October.

Haydock Park will also host a Summer Season Finale, described as one last summer party for the flat season.

Flat Racing Fixtures 2023 - The Main Events

The flat racing season is filled with events, so we are bringing you the biggest events for the year.

May

3rd May - Royal Ascot Trial Days - Ascot Racecourse

5th May - QIPCO Guineas Festival Friday - Newmarket Racecourse

6th May - QIPCO Guineas Festival | 2000 Guineas Day - Newmarket Racecourse

7th May - QIPCO Guineas Festival | 1000 Guineas Day - Newmarket Racecourse

19th May - Evening Races with Sugababes, Aintree Racecourse

June

2nd June - Epsom Derby | Ladies' Day - Epsom Downs Racecourse

3rd June - Epsom Derby | Derby Day - Epsom Downs Racecourse

20th June - Day 1: Royal Ascot - Ascot Racecourse

21st June - Day 2: Royal Ascot - Ascot Racecourse

22nd June - Day 3: Royal Ascot - Ascot Racecourse

23rd June - Day 4: Royal Ascot - Ascot Racecourse

24th June - Day 5: Royal Ascot - Ascot Racecourse

July

13th July - July Festival | Ladies Day - Newmarket Racecourse

14th July - July Festival | Festival Friday - Newmarket Racecourse

15th July - July Festival | July Cup Day - Newmarket Racecourse

28th July - QIPCO King George Diamond Weekend Friday - Ascot Racecourse

29th July - QIPCO King George Diamond Day - Ascot Racecourse

August

1st August - Qatar Goodwood Festival | Day 1: Goodwood Cup Day - Goodwood Racecourse

2nd August - Qatar Goodwood Festival | Day 2: Sussex Stakes Day - Goodwood Racecourse

3rd August - Qatar Goodwood Festival | Day 3: Ladies’ Day - Goodwood Racecourse

4th August - Qatar Goodwood Festival | Day 4: King George Day - Goodwood Racecourse

5th August - Qatar Goodwood Festival | Day 5: Steward’s Cup Day - Goodwood Racecourse

23rd August - Ebor Festival Wednesday | Juddmonte International - York Racecourse

24th August - Ebor Festival Thursday | Darley Yorkshire Oaks/Ladies’ Day - York Racecourse

25th August - Ebor Festival Friday | Coolmore Nunthorpe - York Racecourse

26th August - Ebor Festival Saturday | Sky Bet Ebor - York Racecourse

September

7th September - Sprint Cup Celebration | September Flat Raceday - Haydock Park Racecourse

8th September - Sprint Cup Celebration | Afternoon Racing - Haydock Park Racecourse

9th September - Sprint Cup Celebration | Betfair Sprint Cup Day - Haydock Park Racecourse

October

13th October - Dubai Future Champions Festival Friday - Newmarket Racecourse

14th October - Dubai Future Champions Day - Newmarket Racecourse

How to attend the flat racing season events in style

Images (L-R): Royal Ascot hospitality, Epsom Derby hospitality, York Racecourse hospitality

Are you looking to attend one of the races this season? Why not make your race day experience one to remember by choosing an official hospitality package?

Seat Unique is delighted to open access to official hospitality packages at several venues on the jump race calendar, including:

With a hospitality package, you will feel like a real VIP as you enjoy unrivalled views of the races as well as luxury inclusions such as:

  • Exclusive access to hospitality lounges
  • Exclusive access to race day areas, including the Parade Ring
  • Inclusive drinks and delicious catering options
  • Access to bars and restaurants
  • Premium seating

Explore available packages and book your place at upcoming jump racing events now!

Explore horse racing events and tickets

Not sure what to wear? Check out our race day style guides for ladies and gents to ensure you look the part.