Radio DJ Vernon Kay is set to get racegoers partying at Cartmel next weekend.
What is surely Britain’s most picturesque racecourse hosts two days of racing on Saturday July 20 and Monday July 22.
Vernon will deliver a 90-minute DJ set following the last race on the Saturday.
Geraldine McKay, director of racing, said: “This is a popular meet and we wanted to do something to make it a bit more special.
“Two years ago we had Ricky Wilson from the Kaiser Chiefs and he went down really well. This time we’re thrilled to get Vernon.
“He’s quite a name with a big personality who plays feel-good music. It will be a good sing-along and dance-along, a really good vibe. It’s really wonderful to be in the beautiful Cartmel Valley, listening to great music as the sun sets.”
Upwards of 10,000 people are expected on the Saturday.
The gates open at 9am, the first race is at 1.40pm and the last at 5.10pm with Vernon’s set – delivered on a professional sound system – starting at 5.50pm.
There are seven races including the popular Cumbria Crystal Cup, sponsored by William Hill, at 4.35pm and the Cartmel Female Jockeys’ Handicap at 4pm.
Geraldine added: “The all-female race is a grade-3 hurdle, very popular, and generally attracts a full field of 14 riders, amateurs and professionals.”
The race weekend comes at the start of the school summer holidays. There is entertainment for all the family, including a funfair for the kids.
Racegoers aged 17 and under get free entry when accompanied by a paying adult.
Those looking for a luxury experience can book fine dining food-and-drink packages at the Louis Roederer Restaurant, with its private viewing balcony, or the Parade Ring Restaurant marquee.
Monday July 22 is also expected to be a busy race day and has proved especially popular with businesses laying on a corporate day out for clients and staff.
Again, there are seven races with gates opening at 9am, the first race at 1.40pm and the last at 5pm.
Cartmel Racecourse tickets
Tickets are available from £30 for Saturday and £23 on Monday.
Pre-book here: https://tickets.cartmel-racecourse.co.uk/shop/cart.pl
What’s on at Cartmel Racecourse
Saturday July 20: Racing & Party with Vernon Kay. Gates open 9am. First race 1.40pm. Last race 5.10pm.
Monday July 22: Gates open 9am. First race 1.40pm. Last race 5.10pm.
Saturday August 24: Cartmel Cup Day: Gates open 9am. First race 2.15pm. Last race 5.05pm.
Monday August 26: August Monday Season Finale. Gates open 10am. First race 2.17pm. Last race 5.15pm.
Useful information
How to get there
Leave the M6 at junction 36 and take the A590 towards Barrow until you reach the turn off for High Newton, then follow the yellow event signs.
By train, travel to Cark-in-Cartmel then take a taxi. Taxis will be in demand so it is advised to book in advance.
Where to stay
Lots of hotels and B&Bs are available in the area. For more information see the plan your visit section of the racecourse website.
Four camping areas are available at the racecourse, plus space for caravans and motorhomes but these fill up quickly. Find out more on the racecourse website.
Safety information
The parkland around the course has beautiful ancient oak trees, but it is not a good idea to sit beneath or climb on them as they can break.
Children are free to paddle in the beck which flows through the Paddock Enclosure, but please ensure they are supervised. The beck is also not suitable for washing up or drinking as animals use it up and downstream.
First aid posts are situated in the Paddock and course enclosures.
