One of the great occasions in Cumbria’s sporting calendar is back this month with the return of Spring Bank Holiday horse racing at Cartmel Racecourse.

It’s the first time in four years that racing has been held at the iconic course in South Lakeland over the final holiday weekend in May in the usual fashion.

Cartmel’s season gets underway on Saturday, May 27 with more racing on Monday, May 29 plus an evening meeting on Wednesday, May 31, all in the incomparable surroundings of the south Cumbrian course.

Bring your own picnic or take advantage of the numerous tasty food and beverage stalls on offer around the course.

Offering unparalleled views, the course encircles the track ensuring that there are no ‘blind spots’ and there are several giant video screens to make sure you don’t miss anything.

This year has the new Paddock Lawn Tipi, a covered area with its own bar and views of the home straight.

Cartmel Racecourse request smart casual dress in the Paddock Enclosure and shirts in all other enclosures. Otherwise, dress for comfort and the weather.

Parking is available on site; the racecourse is dog-friendly, and you are welcome to bring a barbeque.

Racecourse director Geraldine McKay said: “We simply can’t wait to welcome back racegoers for the start of our 2023 season. It’s been far too long since we held a Bank Holiday race meeting at the end of May in the way we usually do.

“Cartmel really is a course like no other, partly thanks to our beautiful location, but also because of the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that our visitors help create.

“As usual we’ve got a host of delicious food and drink options, trade stalls and the funfair, all of which make for a fantastic day out for families during half-term.”