Race Day Guide

Get ready for a great day at Newcastle Racecourse. Plan your day at the races with information on where to eat and drink, what to wear, and how to get here.

Welcome to Newcastle Racecourse's Race Day Guide. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular racegoer, this guide will help you make the most of your day at the races. Explore our dining options, learn about our dress code, and find out how to get to the racecourse.

RESTAURANTS AND BARS

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WHAT TO WEAR

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GETTING HERE

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Restaurants and Bars

Newcastle Racecourse boasts a number of great facilities for members and the general public. Be seen in the magnificent Chevals Restaurant with its executive chef curated buffet and panoramic views of the winning post and home straight. Get up close to the action in the Trackside Marquee, or join the party atmosphere of the Ascot Bar.

Chevals Restaurant

Chevals Restaurant

Chevals Restaurant is the flagship venue of Newcastle Racecourse. With panoramic views of the winning post and home straight of Newcastle Racecourse, and featuring tote facilities, Chevals Restaurant is the venue of choice for an exceptional race day experience.

  • Fine Dining
  • Full Bar Service
  • Tote Facilities
  • Track Views
Ascot Bar and Lawn

Ascot Bar and Lawn

The ideal place to catch up with friends and enjoy the races!

  • Full Bar Service
  • Social Atmosphere
  • Outdoor Area
  • Race Viewing
Pavilion Room

Pavilion Room

The venue of choice for Corporate Sponsors.

  • Corporate Friendly
  • Full Bar Service
  • Tote Facilities
  • Track Views
Chairman's Suite

Chairman's Suite

A prestigious private function room and offers the ultimate race day experience.

  • Premium Experience
  • Private Function Room
  • Full Bar Service
  • Track Views
Mark Murphy Lounge

Mark Murphy Lounge

Offering exceptional panoramic views of the track and winning post, air conditioning and with full bar and betting facilities, the perfect venue for your social catch-up with friends.

  • Panoramic Views
  • Air Conditioning
  • Full Bar Service
  • Betting Facilities
Members Day Pass

Members Day Pass

There's no better way to enjoy a day at the races than as a member or a members guest in the NJC Members Lounge. Located adjacent to the Parade Ring you will enjoy all the spoils of being up close.

  • Member Access
  • Near Parade Ring
  • Full Bar Service
  • Lounge Access
The Trackside Marquee

The Trackside Marquee

With air-conditioning, an exclusive lawn area and spectacular food and beverages, you're set for a fantastic day out in the Trackside Marquee.

  • Air Conditioning
  • Exclusive Lawn Area
  • Food Service
  • Full Bar Service
The Meadows Marquee

The Meadows Marquee

Newcastle Racecourse's newest venue is the Meadows Marquee - a free standing Marquee that offers great views of the Parade Ring and Winning Post.

  • Views of Parade Ring
  • Views of Winning Post
  • Full Bar Service
  • New Venue

What to Wear

Spring, Autumn, Summer, Winter – whatever the season, it's all about the racewear and Newcastle Racecourse is all about dressing to impress.

Newcastle Racecourse encourages all to celebrate the history and exhilaration of racing, and dress up for the premier social occasions of the year. From the finest dresses, the most exquisite millinery, and the elegance of a well-tailored suit, fashion sets the tone for a day of racing Newcastle Racecourse.

Please take the time to read the dress regulations for the Member's Reserve below so as to avoid the potential embarrassment of being refused entry.

Gentleman are expected to wear smart race attire.

Acceptable

  • Collared Shirt – long or short sleeve
  • Ties & Jackets are optional
  • Dress/tailored trousers, chinos, moleskins or jeans
  • Dress/tailored shorts
  • Closed in shoes

Not Acceptable

  • Tracksuits, board shorts, cargo shorts or footy/sports/running shorts
  • Any torn or ripped clothing
  • Any form of the following footwear: joggers/runners, sports/track shoes, sandals, thongs, 'crocs', dilapidated footwear, scuffs, gumboots or slippers.

Ladies are expected to wear smart race attire.

Acceptable

  • Dress skirt
  • Dress / tailored trousers, chinos, moleskins, slacks or jeans
  • Millinery (optional)

Not Acceptable

  • Shorts, untailored pants or 'playsuits' (i.e. all-in-one shorts and singlet-style upper)
  • Any torn or ripped clothing
  • Garments that show midriff
  • Any form of the following footwear: joggers/runners, sports/track shoes, sandals, thongs, 'crocs', dilapidated footwear, scuffs, gumboots or slippers.

Children must be dressed in a neat and tidy fashion with enclosed footwear on.

Requirements

  • Neat and tidy clothing
  • Enclosed footwear

Seasonal Fashion Guide

Spring

Bright colors, floral patterns, and lightweight fabrics. Ladies can opt for fascinators or wide-brimmed hats.

Summer

Light, breathable fabrics in vibrant colors. Gentlemen can consider linen suits, while ladies might choose sleeveless dresses with sun protection.

Autumn

Rich, warm colors and medium-weight fabrics. Consider layering options as temperatures can vary throughout the day.

Winter

Elegant coats, scarves, and gloves. Dark colors and heavier fabrics are appropriate, with closed-toe shoes a must.

Getting Here

The top provincial racecourse in Northern NSW, Newcastle Racecourse, welcomes you to the beautiful Newcastle.

Located 2 hours North of Sydney and at the gateway to the beautiful Hunter Valley, Newcastle is a major city in NSW, and a premier destination for provincial racing, corporate entertaining and major events.

Map of Newcastle Racecourse

Trains

The closest train stations to Newcastle Racecourse are Broadmeadow and Hamilton.

Please visit City Rail to view timetables.

View Timetables

Buses

There are several bus points that drop off to bus stops located around Newcastle Racecourse.

Visit Newcastle Buses for timetable and route information.

View Bus Routes

Taxis

There is a taxi rank located on Darling Street at the main entry that is operational on race days.

Taxis arrive regularly throughout the day.

Phone: 13Cabs

Call 13Cabs

Courtesy Bus

Newcastle Racecourse operates a complimentary courtesy bus that runs from Newcastle Racecourse to The Prince of Merewether after Saturday race meetings.

This bus runs on loop from 3:30pm onwards and the pickup location is on Darling St.

Air Travel

The closest airport is Newcastle Airport, a short 35 minute drive from Newcastle.

Newcastle Airport is serviced by several airlines from major cities including Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Parking Information

Free parking is available at Newcastle Racecourse on race days. Enter via the main entrance on Darling Street.

Disabled parking spaces are available close to the main entrance.

On major race days, parking can fill up quickly, so we recommend arriving early or using public transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time do gates open on race days?

Gates typically open at 11:00am for most race days. For feature race days, gates may open earlier at 10:30am. Please check the specific event details for exact opening times.

How much does it cost to attend a race day?

General admission tickets start from $15 for regular race days. Feature race days and special events may have different pricing. Members receive free entry to most race days as part of their membership benefits.

Are children allowed at the racecourse?

Yes, children under 18 are welcome at Newcastle Racecourse when accompanied by a responsible adult. Children under 12 receive free entry. Please note that some areas may have age restrictions.

Is there wheelchair access at the racecourse?

Yes, Newcastle Racecourse has wheelchair access throughout most areas. Disabled parking spaces are available close to the main entrance, and accessible toilets are located throughout the venue. Please contact us in advance if you require any specific assistance.

What happens if it rains on race day?

Newcastle Racecourse races in most weather conditions. In the event of extreme weather, races may be postponed or canceled. We recommend checking our website or social media channels for updates before attending. Many of our venues offer covered areas for shelter during inclement weather.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted at Newcastle Racecourse. We offer a variety of food and beverage options throughout the venue to cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.

Is there ATM access at the racecourse?

Yes, ATMs are available at various locations throughout the racecourse. Most food, beverage, and betting facilities also accept card payments.