Chester Racecourse has been rated as one of the best in the UK. It has been named among the top 12 racecourses in the UK by VisitEngland and VisitScotland, in partnership with the Racecourse Association.
The accolade, awarded as part of the Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme, assessed every course in the UK, rating them against other visitor attractions in Britain.
Both Chester and Bangor-on-Dee, which comes under the Chester Race Company umbrella, were on the list.
The other 10 listed (in alphabetical order) were: Ascot, Beverley, Carlisle, Doncaster, Goodwood, Haydock Park, Newbury, Redcar, Ripon and York.
Out of the total number of marks available (285), Chester achieved a score of 255, giving an overall VisitEngland satisfaction score of 89%. Criteria measured and marked included pre-arrival information, arrival at the racecourse, cleanliness, facilities, bars and catering, staff and overall experience.
Out of all elements assessed, Chester Racecourse was praised for its new website and effective use of social media, excellent signage and visitor information, maintenance of the grounds, raceday information, extensive catering options, superb owners and trainers’ facilities, performance of raceday staff and theming on family days.
Bangor-on-Dee achieved 242 marks out of the possible 285 (85%). Levels of cleanliness, staff operational excellence, standard of viewing and commentary and overall appearance were all criteria marked as extremely high during the assessment.
Chester Racecourse chief executive, Richard Thomas, said: "We are delighted that both of our racecourses performed highly. It’s pleasing to see the work that goes into making a great visitor experience is recognised. It is also a useful guide to help us further improve the visitor experience.”