The thunder of hooves, the roar of the crowd, the glint of silks – there’s nothing quite like the thrill of horse racing. And while being trackside is an experience like no other, sometimes you just want to soak up the atmosphere with a pint in hand, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts. Luckily, the UK is brimming with fantastic pubs and venues that offer the perfect setting to watch all the major racing events in 2025, from the Cheltenham Festival to the Grand National and Royal Ascot. Forget squinting at a tiny screen in the corner; these are establishments that truly embrace the sport of kings, offering multiple screens, a buzzing atmosphere, and often, some top-notch grub to boot. So, saddle up and get ready to place your bets – here’s our definitive list of the 10 best places to catch all the action in 2025.

1. The Greyhound Inn, Chalfont St Peter

Galloping straight into the top spot is The Greyhound Inn in the charming village of Chalfont St Peter. This isn’t your average local; it’s a haven for racing aficionados. What sets The Greyhound apart is its sheer dedication to providing the ultimate viewing experience. Forget jostling for a decent view – this place boasts multiple large screens strategically placed throughout the pub, ensuring you won’t miss a single stride, no matter where you’re perched. The sound system is top-notch, immersing you in the commentary and the electrifying atmosphere of the races.

But The Greyhound offers more than just visual and auditory delights. Their trump card? A fantastic menu of authentic Indian cuisine. Imagine tucking into a spicy vindaloo or a creamy butter chicken while cheering on your favourite horse – it’s a winning combination. The aroma of fragrant spices fills the air, adding a unique and delicious dimension to your race-day experience. The pub also offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits to keep your spirits high throughout the day. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready with a smile and perhaps even a racing tip or two. With its comfortable seating, lively ambiance, and that incredible Indian food, The Greyhound Inn is a clear winner for watching the races in 2025.

2. The Garrison Public House, Bermondsey, London

Down in the capital, Bermondsey’s The Garrison Public House offers a more refined but equally passionate racing experience. This gastropub exudes a sophisticated charm with its elegant décor and a clientele that appreciates quality. While it might not have quite as many screens as The Greyhound, the strategically placed large televisions ensure excellent viewing from most spots in the pub. The atmosphere here is buzzing but perhaps a touch more civilised, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively environment without the rowdiness.

The Garrison truly shines when it comes to its food and drink offerings. Expect a seasonal menu of beautifully prepared British dishes, perfect for a more substantial meal while you watch the races unfold. Their selection of craft beers and fine wines is also impressive, catering to a discerning palate. The pub often attracts a knowledgeable racing crowd, leading to engaging conversations and a shared sense of excitement. If you’re looking for a stylish setting to enjoy the racing action in London, The Garrison is a strong contender.

3. The Sheep Heid Inn, Edinburgh

Venturing north of the border, The Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh is a historic pub with a contemporary twist, making it a fantastic spot to watch the races. Claiming to be Scotland’s oldest surviving public house, it offers a unique blend of tradition and modern amenities. While steeped in history, The Sheep Heid has embraced the digital age with well-placed screens throughout the pub, ensuring you can follow all the action from the major racing festivals.

What makes The Sheep Heid particularly appealing is its charming atmosphere and diverse offerings. Alongside the racing, you can enjoy a game of skittles in their traditional alley or simply soak up the historic ambiance. Their menu features hearty Scottish fare, perfect for a satisfying meal while you cheer on your chosen steed. They also boast a good selection of local beers and whiskies, providing a true taste of Scotland. The Sheep Heid Inn offers a memorable and unique racing viewing experience.

4. The Bookmakers Arms, Brighton

It’s no surprise that a pub named The Bookmakers Arms would be a top spot for watching horse racing. Located in the vibrant city of Brighton, this pub lives and breathes the sport. Expect a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere on race days, with punters eagerly following every race. The pub is well-equipped with numerous screens, ensuring everyone has a clear view of the action.

The Bookmakers Arms prides itself on its no-nonsense approach to enjoying the races. It’s all about the sport here, with a focus on providing a great viewing experience and a friendly, welcoming environment for racing fans. They offer a good selection of drinks at reasonable prices, and while the food might be more traditional pub fare, it certainly hits the spot. This is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the racing spirit.

5. The Red Lion, Luton

Flying the flag for Luton is The Red Lion, a proper community pub that comes alive on race days. While perhaps not as overtly themed around racing as some others on this list, The Red Lion understands what makes a great venue to watch sports: plenty of screens, a lively atmosphere, and affordable drinks. You’ll find a mix of regulars and racing enthusiasts here, all drawn by the promise of a good time and the chance to cheer on their winners.

The Red Lion offers a relaxed and unpretentious environment to enjoy the racing. They typically have several screens showing the action simultaneously, so you won’t have to crane your neck for a view. The atmosphere can get quite buzzing, especially during the major festivals. They also offer a standard pub menu with all the classics, perfect for a no-fuss meal while you watch the day’s events unfold. The Red Lion is a solid choice for catching the racing action in Luton.

6. The White Swan, Richmond, London

Nestled in the picturesque area of Richmond, The White Swan offers a more traditional pub setting to enjoy the races. This charming riverside pub boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a comfortable spot to settle in for an afternoon of racing. While it might not have walls plastered with racing memorabilia, The White Swan provides a relaxed and convivial environment with strategically placed screens showing all the key events.

What sets The White Swan apart is its beautiful location and its focus on quality. Enjoy a pint by the river before the racing starts, or celebrate your winnings with a delicious meal from their well-regarded menu. They offer a good selection of beers and wines, and the staff are always welcoming. The White Swan provides a more laid-back but equally enjoyable way to experience the thrill of horse racing.

7. The Mitre, Lancaster

Heading to the North West, The Mitre in Lancaster is a fantastic pub that embraces sports, including horse racing. This popular local boasts a great atmosphere on race days, with punters gathering to watch the action on their multiple screens. The pub has a friendly and welcoming vibe, making it a comfortable place to spend an afternoon.

The Mitre offers a good selection of drinks and a menu of hearty pub food, perfect for fueling your race-day experience. They often have special offers on drinks during major racing events, adding to the appeal. The enthusiastic crowd and the clear viewing make The Mitre a top choice for watching the races in Lancaster.

8. The High Flyer, Ely

With a name like The High Flyer, it’s clear this Ely pub has an affinity for things that move quickly. This is a dedicated sports pub that takes its racing seriously. Expect numerous large screens ensuring excellent viewing from every corner of the pub. The atmosphere here is electric on race days, with a passionate crowd eager to cheer on their selections.

The High Flyer offers a wide range of drinks and a menu of classic pub fare, perfect for a satisfying meal while you enjoy the racing. They often run promotions and special events around major racing festivals, adding to the excitement. If you’re looking for a pub in Ely that is wholeheartedly dedicated to showing sports, including horse racing, The High Flyer is the place to be.

9. The Turf Tavern, Oxford

Steeped in history and tucked away down a cobbled alleyway in Oxford, The Turf Tavern offers a unique and atmospheric setting to watch the races. This iconic pub has a timeless charm and a loyal following. While it might not be the most modern sports bar, The Turf Tavern understands the importance of showing major sporting events, and you’ll find well-placed screens showing all the key racing action.

The Turf Tavern’s appeal lies in its historic ambiance and its sense of community. Enjoy a pint in its secluded courtyard or cosy up inside by the fire while watching the races unfold. They offer a good selection of beers and traditional pub food. Watching the racing in such a historic setting adds a unique dimension to the experience.

10. The Winning Post, York

Rounding off our list is The Winning Post in York, a city synonymous with horse racing. As you might expect from its name, this pub is a haven for racing enthusiasts. Expect a vibrant and knowledgeable crowd on race days, all gathered to watch the action on the multiple screens throughout the pub.

The Winning Post offers a fantastic atmosphere and a real sense of camaraderie among racing fans. They have a good selection of drinks and a menu of pub classics. Being located in a city with such a strong racing heritage only adds to the experience. If you’re in York and looking for a pub that truly embraces horse racing, The Winning Post is a sure bet.

So there you have it – our top 10 pubs and venues across the UK to watch horse racing in 2025. From the spice-infused excitement of The Greyhound Inn to the historic charm of The Turf Tavern, each of these establishments offers a unique and memorable way to experience the thrill of the races. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or simply enjoy the spectacle, these venues are sure to provide a winning day out. So, mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to cheer on your winners in style! These pubs are not just places to watch the racing; they are hubs of excitement, camaraderie, and the shared joy of witnessing sporting history in the making. With great atmospheres, ample screens, and often delicious food and drink, they elevate the race-day experience from simply watching to truly immersing yourself in the thrill of the turf.