Best value · from £5
Clocktower Enclosure at York
A grassy bank across the track with close-up views of the finish, food courts, bars and bookmakers, from £5. Picnics are welcome, and tickets are sold on the day only.
Photo: Chris Heaton, CC BY-SA 2.0, cropped
Who it suits
- Families and groups who want a cheap day out with a picnic.
- Racegoers who decide to go on the day.
- The September family Sunday, when the Clocktower is combined with the Grandstand & Paddock at a fixed price.
Ticket prices
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Clocktower EnclosureOn the day only, first come first served | From £5 |
| Under-18sUnder-16s with an adult | Free |
Clocktower tickets can’t be booked in advance.
Where your ticket takes you
- The grassy bank in the Clocktower Enclosure, with views of the finish.
- Food courts, bars and bookmakers.
- Space for your own picnic.
Not included
- The Parade Ring and the Knavesmire Stand (Grandstand & Paddock).
- The County Stand.
The view
You watch from the grassy bank on the far side of the track, with close-up views of the finish.
Food and drink
The Clocktower is York’s picnic enclosure, with food courts and bars as well.
Picnics
Welcome, but no glass, barbecues or gazebos.
Food courts and bars
In the enclosure.
Facilities
Bookmakers
Betting in the enclosure.
Trackside viewing near the winning post
Including an accessible viewing area.
Dress code
There’s no formal dress code in the Clocktower Enclosure.
Getting in
Clocktower tickets are sold on the day only, first come first served, from the official gates-open time. Gates open at 11.15am on most racedays and 11am at the Ebor Festival.
Accessibility
Clocktower racegoers with a Blue Badge use Car Park A, about 80 yards from the accessible Clocktower entrance across the track; parking is on grass and can be uneven. There’s a trackside viewing area near the winning post. The Accessibility Companion scheme lets a companion in free: call 01904 620911.
Children and families
Children under 18 go free; under-16s must be with an adult (terms apply on music racedays).
Tips
- Bring a picnic, but leave glass, barbecues and gazebos at home.
- Arrive early on big days: tickets are first come, first served.
- Upgrade to Grandstand & Paddock if you want to see the Parade Ring.
Upgrading
For the Parade Ring and the Knavesmire Stand, book a Grandstand & Paddock ticket instead, ideally two weeks ahead for the early-bird price.
Questions people ask
Can I book Clocktower tickets in advance?
No, they’re sold on the day only.
Can I bring a picnic?
Yes, but no glass, barbecues or gazebos.
How much is it?
From £5.
Can I see the Parade Ring?
No, that’s in the Grandstand & Paddock and County Stand.
Other enclosures at York
Compare all the enclosures side by side · Back to the York guide
Sources
Checked on 4 October 2026 against:
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