Review of Ripon Races family day!
If you thought a day at the races was just for adults, then get yourselves to a Family Day at Ripon Races who will most definitely prove you wrong.
Tickets are available to suit a variety of budgets, and with kids going absolutely free this is a day out that won’t break the bank! We had Paddock tickets which meant that we could access all the fantastic children’s entertainment in the course enclosure but also get up close to all the racing action. The children loved being able to see the horses in the parade ring before each race and having a shower to cool off after. This really helped them feel involved in the racing side of the day as they could pick out their ‘favourite’.
The entertainment available for the children was fantastic and kept the four children with us thoroughly engaged for the full day. Entertainment included sand art pictures, badge making, glitter tattoos, face painting, Magic Ray magic show, balloon modelling, inflatable assault course and bouncy castle (phew!). It was also great to see live music being provided by local artists. All of this was included for free; keeping the children busy and giving the adults chance to sit and have a chat and a cheeky drink. Gates open a couple of hours before the first race. We arrived for opening time and I would recommend getting there early to make the most of everything as there is so much to do.
Paddock and Course enclosure tickets allow you to take your own food and drink into the event and you are also allowed to take your own alcoholic drinks into the Course enclosure (equivalent of 4 cans, no glass or spirits). If eating out is more your thing then there is a plentiful choice of food huts ranging from burgers to hog roasts, so there will be something to suit everybody’s taste. The site is really thoughtfully set out, with loads of seating areas to sit and eat or take a few minutes away from the crowd. There are also lots of big screens scattered around the course showing the races so that you can always get a great view of all the action and there are even two playgrounds on site which would be accessible on all race days, not just family days. Parking is included on site or, if you are fancying a drink or two, you can make use of the free shuttle bus that runs from Ripon centre.
We had an amazing time and both children and adults left the day buzzing and keen to return. The atmosphere was brilliant, all of the staff were so helpful and friendly and the activities offered were superb. There is another Family Day on Bank Holiday Monday (29th August) so get yourselves there- you won’t regret it!
