Boodles May Festival

The Boodles May Festival is Chester Racecourse’s most prestigious three-day race meeting, it takes place at the beginning of May each year and launches the remainder of the year’s racing season.

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Boodles have been the official, title sponsor of this world-class event since 2013 and have further expanded their commitments to the world’s oldest racecourse over the years by recently taken on the sponsorship of events such as Chester’s annual Polo tournament.

Chester Racecourse is officially recognised as the world’s oldest, operating racecourse by the Guinness World Records. The first race ever held at Chester Racecourse took place almost 5 centuries ago in 1539. Since then, Chester has become renowned in the industry for providing an unrivalled first-class service to all of its racegoers, but especially its hospitality clients. Boasting some of the best facilities in the industry as well as expert teams including multi-award-winning chefs, Chester Racecourse and Boodles both share a devout passion for quality.

"We've had a long history with the racecourse and have been working together for around 25 years. Our customers absolutely love it, whether they are into racing or just coming for a nice day out."

James Amos, Boodles Managing Director

The Boodles May Festival consist of three consecutive race meetings – City Day, Ladies Day and Chester Cup Day. Each meeting has its own unique character and personality. Ladies Day is of course an iconic fixture, used by racegoers to showcase the latest styles and trends in impactful outfits designed to wow. City Day and Chester Cup Day however, are fan favourites amongst the hardcore racing enthusiasts, as the annual Chester Vase race is used as a trial for the Epsom Derby and the Chester Cup race weeds out the greatest of jockeys and racehorses destined for success.

The Boodles May Festival Chester Cup Day 2024 will return on 10th May in 2024.