Horse racing in the UK is more than just a sport – it’s a long-standing tradition, a major contributor to the economy, and a spectacle that draws millions of spectators annually. From historic racecourses to world-famous events, its influence extends far beyond the track.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan, a newcomer to the sport, or an individual who aims to utilise horse racing results as a side hustle, these unique facts will pique your interest and deepen your appreciation for the rich history and lasting legacy of UK horse racing.
Horse Racing is the UK’s Second-Favourite Sport
Football may dominate the headlines, but horse racing isn’t far behind when it comes to sheer popularity. With over six million spectators passing through the turnstiles each year, it’s the second most-watched sport in Britain.
The UK boasts 59 racecourses, more than any other European country, hosting an incredible range of events – from the elegance of Royal Ascot to the excitement of the Grand National. The combination of speed, strategy, and tradition keeps fans returning year after year, ensuring racing remains a major part of the UK’s sporting culture.
The Sport Wasn’t Invented in Britain
While modern horse racing as we know it today originated in Britain, the concept of racing horses is as old as their domestication. As far back as 4500 BC, nomadic tribes in Central Asia were racing their horses, using speed and endurance to showcase the best animals for battle and transportation.
The first recorded horseback tournaments in Britain date back to around 200 AD, during the time of the Roman occupation. Chariot races were already a major spectacle in Roman society, and these traditions influenced the competitive nature of early British horse racing. Over time, racing evolved into an organised sport, ultimately becoming a national obsession.
A Billion-Pound Industry
Horse racing is not just a beloved sport – it’s also a financial powerhouse. Over the last few years, the industry has generated an annual average of £3.5 billion for the UK economy according to Statista, while creating thousands of jobs across breeding, training, racecourse management, and betting industries.
Major events such as the Cheltenham Festival, The Grand National, and Royal Ascot bring massive revenue through sponsorship deals, broadcasting rights, and tourism. The worldwide appeal of British racing ensures that it remains a crucial part of the economy, drawing fans and investors from across the globe.
The Grand National’s Fences Have a Story to Tell
The Grand National, held annually at Aintree, is one of the world’s most famous and challenging horse races. But did you know that even the fences in the race have their own history? Becher’s Brook was named after Captain Martin Becher, a jockey who fell into the ditch below the fence during the first-ever Grand National in 1839.
The Chair, one of the most difficult jumps, has a landing side six inches higher than the takeoff, making it particularly tricky for horses and riders alike. These unique obstacles add to the drama and unpredictability of the Grand National, making it a true test of skill, endurance, and luck.
Racing Was Once Banned in Britain
Despite being one of the UK’s most beloved pastimes, horse racing was once completely outlawed. During the rule of Oliver Cromwell (1653–1658), all horse racing was banned, and most Thoroughbreds were seized for military use following the English Civil War.
Cromwell’s Puritan government saw racing as a distraction from more serious affairs and a breeding ground for social issues. However, once the monarchy was restored in 1660, King Charles II revived the sport, setting the foundation for what would become modern horse racing.
Thoroughbred Racehorses Were Originally Bred for War
The three founding sires of modern Thoroughbred racing – Darley Arabian, Byerley Turk, and Godolphin Arabian – were originally bred as warhorses before becoming the foundation of today’s racehorses.
These horses were prized for their speed, endurance, and strength, which made them valuable in battle. When brought to Britain in the 17th and 18th centuries, they were selectively bred with local mares to create the Thoroughbred bloodline we know today.
Every Thoroughbred racehorse can trace its lineage back to these three stallions, proving how much warhorses shaped the sport.
Becoming a Jockey is Incredibly Tough
Despite the huge popularity of horse racing, only a small number of people ever get the chance to become professional jockeys. As of 2025, there are only around 440 professional jockeys in the UK, alongside 300 amateur riders.
Becoming a jockey requires:
- Strict weight control, as most jockeys need to weigh between 8-10 stone (112-140 lbs).
- Extensive training, starting from a young age at specialised racing schools.
- Physical toughness, as jockeys face frequent falls, injuries, and long working hours.
- It’s one of the most demanding careers in sport, requiring incredible skill, dedication, and resilience.
The Epsom Derby Inspired the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby owes its existence to a visit to the Epsom Derby in 1872 by American Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., grandson of explorer William Clark. He was so inspired by the grandeur and tradition of the UK race, first run in 1780, that he decided to create a similar event in the United States. Upon returning home, he established Churchill Downs and launched the first Kentucky Derby in 1875.
While both races remain among the world’s most prestigious, their formats differ. The Epsom Derby is run over 1 mile 4 furlongs on turf, while the Kentucky Derby covers 1 mile 2 furlongs on dirt, reflecting the contrasting styles of European and American racing. Despite the differences, both events continue to attract elite horses, jockeys, and global audiences.
The Oldest Racecourse in the UK Dates Back to 1539
Chester Racecourse, known as “The Roodee,” is the oldest racecourse in England, with official records dating back to 1539. Racing was first authorised by Mayor Henry Gee, whose name is believed to have inspired the nickname “gee-gee” for horses. Built on the site of an ancient Roman harbour, Chester’s racing traditions have lasted nearly 500 years.
Unlike most modern racecourses, Chester has a tight, one-mile circuit, creating fast, tactical racing where horses must navigate sharp turns and fight for position. The historic venue, set against the backdrop of medieval city walls, remains one of the UK’s most atmospheric and unique racecourses, attracting thousands of spectators each year.
