How to get to York Racecourse by train

Make a day of it in York

A day at York Racecourse is the perfect excuse to explore one of Britain's most historic and beautiful cities. With the racecourse located less than a mile from the city centre and around 30 minutes' walk from York Station, it's easy to combine world-class racing with sightseeing, shopping and great food.

Wander the Historic Streets of York

Before heading to the races, spend some time exploring York's medieval heart. The city is packed with cobbled streets, hidden alleyways and centuries of history, making it one of the UK's most walkable destinations. The famous Shambles is often regarded as one of the best preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. With its overhanging timber-framed buildings, independent boutiques and cafés, it's a must see for first time visitors. Nearby, you'll find plenty of shops, restaurants and traditional pubs perfect for a pre-race lunch or post-race drink.

Visit York Minster

Towering above the city skyline, York Minster is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe and one of York's most recognisable landmarks. Step inside to admire stunning stained-glass windows, explore centuries of history beneath the cathedral in the Undercroft Museum, or climb the Central Tower for spectacular views across York and beyond. Whether you're interested in architecture, history or simply looking for the city's best viewpoint, York Minster is well worth adding to your itinerary.

Walk the City Walls

York is home to England's most complete medieval city walls, offering a unique way to see the city from above. The walls stretch for around two miles and provide fantastic views of York's historic streets, gardens and landmarks. For racegoers arriving early, a leisurely walk along sections of the walls is a great way to soak up the atmosphere before making your way to the racecourse.

Discover Railway History at the National Railway Museum

Just a short walk from York Station, the National Railway Museum is one of the city's most popular attractions and a must-visit for train enthusiasts. Explore iconic locomotives, including world-famous steam engines, discover interactive exhibitions and learn how rail travel helped shape modern Britain. Best of all, general admission is free, making it an easy addition to your York itinerary.

Enjoy Food and Drink

York's food scene has flourished in recent years, with everything from traditional tearooms and historic pubs to independent restaurants and modern cocktail bars. Whether you're starting your day with brunch before heading to the races, enjoying afternoon drinks after the final furlong, or making a weekend of your visit, you'll find plenty of options across the city centre. Popular areas include Parliament Street, Stonegate and the riverside, all within easy reach of York Station.

Turn Race Day into a Weekend Break

If one day in York isn't enough, why not stay a little longer? From luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses to family-friendly accommodation, York offers plenty of places to stay. Spending the night allows you to enjoy the races at a more relaxed pace while giving you extra time to explore the city's attractions, shopping districts and vibrant evening scene. With direct LNER services from London, Newcastle, Durham, Darlington and Edinburgh, York is one of the easiest racing destinations to reach by train, making it ideal for both day trips and longer stays.