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Jockeys racing at Sedgefield Racecourse.
Jockeys racing at Sedgefield Racecourse.
Racing Since 1732

There's almost 300 years of history.

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History of Sedgefield Racecourse

Located in the heart of the Durham countryside, Sedgefield Racecourse is renowned as one of the friendliest racecourses in the country. With a reputation for a warm and relaxed atmosphere, we host 17 jump race meetings from September to May, alongside venue hire for private and corporate events throughout the year.

Racing has been at the heart of Sedgefield for nearly 300 years, with the first recorded meeting held in 1846. Our most notable races are The Durham National and John Wade Novices’ Hurdle Series Final. Our Boxing Day Racing event, which is steeped in history, is hugely popular during the festive season.

History of Sedgefield Racecourse

Racing at Sedgefield dates all the way back to around 1732, with the first recorded meetings in 1846. Once part of the Sands Hall Estate, the course quickly became a key hub for local hunts and early race meetings.

By the early 1900s, Sedgefield was already making a name for itself, described as having some of the finest turf and fences in the country.

Through The Years

Racing paused during the First World War but resumed in 1920, and by the mid-1920s, Sedgefield was hosting three annual meetings, including the now-traditional Boxing Day fixture. The current Racecourse Company was formed in 1927 and has grown to 17 fixtures each year.

More Modern Times

Major upgrades began in the late 1970s under Chairman Frank Scotto, with a vision to make Sedgefield a warm, welcoming venue with great facilities and at an affordable cost for everyone. New bars, dining areas, and hospitality suites replaced the old ‘tin huts’ and set the course for a new path.

Highlights include the opening of the Sedgefield Pavilion in 1991, the Theakston Suite in 1995, and a modern Weighing Room Complex in 1998 - all designed to offer a better experience for jockeys, staff and racegoers alike.

Frank passed away in 1996 and while he did not see all his dreams for Sedgefield come true, today, under Arena Racing Company, we continue to build on Frank’s legacy - making racing enjoyable, accessible, and friendly for all.

The Early Days: 1700s - 1800s
The War: Early 1900s
The Modern Era: Late 1900s - 2000s
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