As well as being one of the friendliest courses in Ireland it is also the oldest because racing started here in 1685 and, apart from occasional disruptions has continued since.
Probably the most famous horse to run at the course was the Byerley Turk, one of the founding fathers of the Thoroughbred breed, which ran there in 1690 en route to the Battle of the Boyne. More recently, famous horses which started their careers there include English and Irish Grand National winner Rhyme n' Reason and Cheltenham winners Tourist Attraction and Sparky Gayle.
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Downpatrick has the reputation of being one of the friendliest racecourses in Ireland and it is situated in the stunningly beautiful county of Down. It is strongly supported by the local community and race meetings there are intimate, cosy affairs with exciting flat and jump racing on offer. The course has recently been modernised with the completion of a new grandstand which can accommodate 1,500 spectators. The highlight of the year at the course is the Powers Whisky Ulster National run in late February over 31/2 miles and which is always an exciting affair.
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The course is right-handed, undulating of one mile and two furlongs in length with an uphill finish.
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By Road: 35 km south of Belfast City on the A2. From the South take the N1 from Dublin to Newry and from there the A1 to Lisburn.
By Rail: High-speed trains run from Belfast to Dublin, stopping at Station (45 mins from racecourse).
By Bus: The course is 1 km from the main bus station.
By Air: The closest airports are Belfast City and Belfast International.
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| Adult: |
£10 |
| OAPs & Students: |
£5 |
| Children: |
Free |
Various punters packages available throughout the year at £15 and £20.
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Snack bar and 3 public bars in the stand.
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There are private boxes available at the course and corporate lunches can be organised in the top-of-the-range marquees. Packages include Tote betting facilities, 4-course lunch and a private bar.
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There are lots of opportunities for fishing and golfing enthusiasts to indulge themselves after racing. There are also lots of sites of archaeological interest in the area.
For more details visit www.kingdomofdown.com
Local Hotels
Burrendale Hotel and Country Club, Newcastle, Tel 028 44 722 599
Denvirs Hotel, Downpatrick, Tel: 028 44 612 012
Local Restaurants
Justines, Downpatrick
Local Pubs
Hogans, Downpatrick
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