From Ferne Arfin,
Your Guide to United Kingdom Travel.
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• What: The place to see flat racing in the Northeast of England
• When: Racing dates scheduled from May through August, culminating in the Ebor Festival in August.
• Where: Just South of the city of York
• Admission: Prices vary depending upon the stands and the racing meet
• Visit their website

York Racecourse is a venue for international thoroughbred racing meets in Northeast England. Racing meets are held from May to August with the dates announced annually on the website. Star jockeys and leading UK and European horses compete at York for serious purses.

The atmosphere at York can be as elegant and sophisticated as at any racecourse in Britain. In 2005, while the Ascot in Berkshire was undergoing refurbishment, the Royal Ascot races were held at York.

There are a variety of stands, boxes and marquees of various prices, some of which require rather formal attire, and which are linked to a range of stylish restaurants and buffets. The Course Enclosure, where racegoers can picnic, is at the center of the track and costs as little as £5 - £20 (depending upon the day) or £2-£5 for seniors 65+. In all, there are about 20 restaurants, bistros, bars and take-away food outlets.

The highlight of the racing season at York Racecourse is the Ebor Festival, held over four days in August, when the biggest prizes are at stake and the most famous jockeys and horses compete.