Three days on the Roodee
Wednesday 5 May
Opening day
The first day of the season on the Roodee
Thursday 6 May
Ladies’ Day
The Ormonde Stakes
Friday 7 May
Chester Cup Day
The Chester Cup, the longest race on the course
Ticket prices and when to buy
| Enclosure | From |
|---|---|
| The RoodeeNo dress code; picnics by Gate 9 during the festival | £10 |
| TattersallsPaddock, Parade Ring and Pavilion Lawn | £40 |
| County Concourse, Long Room, Winning PostGrandstand and premium areas | See racecourse |
These are the racecourse’s general “from” prices; May Festival prices are usually higher. 2027 festival tickets had not gone on sale when we checked; sign up with the racecourse for early-bird access.
- Early birds. Sign up with the racecourse for early-bird access to 2027 tickets.
- Open course. The open course is closed during the festival; Roodee picnics go on the grass in front of Gate 9.
- Groups. Book ten or more and the lead booker goes free in the Roodee, Tattersalls or County Concourse.
Not sure which enclosure? Compare the enclosures, or estimate the cost of your trip.
Travel and parking
Walk from the station
About 20 minutes through the old city.
Park & Ride
The Blue Line stops by the racecourse; £2.50 return with free parking.
By car
Use postcode CH1 4LD and follow the yellow signs; roads around the course close on racedays.
More on trains, walking routes and coming from Ireland: getting to Chester.
Hotels and nights out
Chester is small, and hotels within walking distance of the Roodee fill up early for the May Festival. Book as soon as you have your tickets.
After racing, walk up into the city. See evenings in Chester. For hotels by area, see where to stay or read our May Festival hotels guide.
Find a hotel in Chester
Compare hotels in and around Chester.
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More Chester guides
Prices, dates and travel details were checked on 4 October 2026. The racecourse can change prices, times and arrangements, so check your booking page before you pay. This is an independent guide, not connected to Chester Racecourse. Some links may earn us a small commission if you book, at no extra cost to you; this never decides what we recommend.