December 2023

Didn’t We Have A Lovely Time The Day We Went To Bangor Races?

Didn’t We Have A Lovely Time The Day We Went To Bangor Races?  When I read that title I couldn’t help but think about the folk song by Fiddler’s Dram which was released in 1979. It peaked at number 3 in the charts back in 1980. Written by Debbie Crook and recorded by lead singer of the band Cathy Lesurf.

By all accounts it was a one hit wonder.

I’d like to state now, I’ve never been to a Bangor race fixture but I know a man who has – he came from Rhyl.

If you know the history of the song you may appreciate the subtle humour.

Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham, Wales, United Kingdom.

Just one of three Welsh racecourses.

Bangor horse racing dates back to 1859. In fact, the first fixture took place on the 25th February of that year. Ideal for a National Hunt race meeting. In ways, little has changed at the venue as it’s one of few racecourses in the country to be without a grandstand.

In addition, point-to-point racing has taken part at the course since 2006, although on the inside of the main course and races run in the opposite direction, right-handed.

Bangor racecourse is owned by the Chester Racing Company which, unsurprisingly owns Chester racecourse which is approximately 30 miles away and also operates Musselburgh.

Bangor has been awarded the Gold Standard Award by the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA).

The course is set in a scenic valley and details excellent views for spectators. This left-handed course (anti-clockwise) is essentially oval-shaped, sharp and flat with a long run-in with a full circuit of 1 mile 4 furlongs. Racing includes Chase, Hurdle and National Hunt Flat racing.

With 14 fixtures throughout the year there is lots to look forward to. The season highlight being the Anne Duchess of Westminster Charity day in November featuring a Listed race.

Ladies Day is very popular in July.

The racecourse has two enclosures: The Paddock Enclosure and Open Course. Tickets range in price from £7 – £22. Racecourse hospitality includes the Wynnstay Restaurant (prices from £60) and Paddock Restaurant (prices from £102).

There is also private dining (from £130 +VAT).

Bangor-on-Dee is a great venue for racing fans not only nestled in the Welsh valleys but on the river Dee. If you love your National Hunt racing take advantage of this historic racecourse.