Fontwell Park’s Southern National Countryside Raceday celebrates the countryside we call home

This November, Fontwell Park Racecourse invites visitors to celebrate the countryside on their doorstep, with the return of its popular Southern National Countryside Raceday on Sunday 15 November.

Combining thrilling jump racing with rural traditions, outdoor activities and family entertainment, the event offers a chance to enjoy everything that makes the local countryside such a special place to live, work and visit.

Set in the heart of West Sussex, Fontwell Park is bringing together the excitement of horseracing and the people, skills and traditions that help shape the surrounding countryside. From tractors and farming heritage to equestrian demonstrations and outdoor games, the day will celebrate the landscapes, communities and rural way of life that make this part of the country unique.

Central to the day is the Southern National, one of the highlights of the autumn jump racing calendar. Staged on Fontwell Park’s distinctive figure-of-eight course, the feature race covers 3 miles and 3 furlongs, putting horses and jockeys through a demanding test of stamina and determination. The race will also be broadcast live on ITV Racing, bringing the action to audiences across the country.

Celebrating the countryside and the community

Beyond the racing, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to discover more about the countryside and enjoy a taste of rural life.

Chichester Young Farmers will bring farming heritage to the racecourse with machinery and tractor displays, while jockey activations and an appearance from former jump jockey David Crosse with his Equicizer will offer an insight into the skills, dedication and training behind horseracing. Other free activities will add to the atmosphere, creating opportunities for visitors of all ages to get involved.

The Aldingbourne Trust will be the charity partner for the day, bringing outdoor games for racegoers to enjoy while raising awareness of its work supporting adults with learning disabilities and autism to live fulfilled lives.

Abigail Rowe, Head of Fundraising at Aldingbourne Trust said:

“We are so grateful to Fontwell Park Racecourse for giving us this opportunity for the third year in a row! We love working with the team and spending time with racegoers who generously donate to our charity.”

Whether visitors are passionate about racing, interested in farming and rural traditions, or simply looking for a reason to get outdoors and spend time together, the raceday offers an opportunity to appreciate the countryside and the communities that make it special.

Guy Pridie, Executive Director at Fontwell Park Racecourse, said:

“The Southern National Countryside Raceday is a real highlight of our year at Fontwell, and we want it to be about much more than what happens on the track. We’re incredibly lucky to live and work in such a beautiful part of the country, with a rich rural heritage and so many people and organisations doing wonderful things in our local communities.

“This is a chance to bring all of that together, celebrating the countryside, enjoying some fantastic racing and giving families and friends a great reason to spend a day outdoors. We’re also delighted to welcome the Aldingbourne Trust back and to support the important work they do.”

A great-value countryside day out

With all activities included free of charge and family tickets starting from just £38 for four, the Southern National Countryside Raceday offers great value for a family day out. Children aged 17 and under can also attend free when accompanied by an adult, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled autumn day out.

For those wishing to make more of the occasion, hospitality options include dining in the Premier Lounge Restaurant and private suites.

To find out more and book tickets visit - https://www.fontwellpark.co.uk/whats-on/southern-national-raceday