Randwick race track is one of the most famous in Sydney, home to 45 races a year and some of the best-dressed people in Australia. Before you head to one of their races, there are a few things you can do to ensure you have the best time. We know that heading to a new race track can be daunting, especially if you are new to the world of horse racing, and we are here to help. Our top tips to prepare for the day are outlined below, including planning your journey and checking the dress code. Let’s dive in to help you prepare today!
- Plan your journey
Royal Randwick is easy to get to by public transport, but it is important that you plan your journey beforehand to avoid any issues during the day! You can choose to use the Light Rail to arrive at the race course, taking the L2 or L3 circular Quay. Royal Randwick has a stop on Alison Road, directly opposite the main entrance. These services run until 1 am on weekdays and weekends, with additional services on major race days.
You can also take the bus, with a choice of the 339, 373, 374, 376, and 377. All of these run regularly, but they can get busy on major race days. Taxis are a popular option for many attendees, and there is a secure taxi rank through the Ascot Street entrance, where all taxis will drop off and collect punters.
For those looking to drive, you can use the general admission free carpark, accessed via High Street. If you are a member or an owner, you can take advantage of the car park and coaches. You will need to purchase coach seats in advance, especially on major race days.
- Check the dress code
The dress code at Randwick will vary depending on whether you are attending in the general admission or members’ reserve areas. The dress code can also vary depending on the race you are attending, so it is important that you check beforehand. You can do this directly on their website or when you are booking tickets. We have outlined the basics of the dress code for you to follow, which applies to anyone over 14 years of age:
Members
If you are attending the Members Reserve Areas on Saturday races, you will need to follow the dress code:
Ladies
Ladies will need to wear formal attire in the dining rooms and members’ reserve areas, avoiding any torn or ripped clothing, jeans, untailored pants, or playsuits, and leggings worn as pants. You must also not expose your midriff or wear any sports shoes, slippers, duffle coats, or windbreakers.
Gentleman
Gentlemen are required to wear a collared shirt with a tie, jacket, blazer, or sports coat and tailored pants. This dress code applies to dining rooms and spaces in the members’ reserve areas. You must avoid wearing tracksuits, torn or ripped clothing, denim, jeans, beanies or peaked caps, football jerseys, or open neck shirts without a collar.
Members relaxed
The members’ relaxed dress code applies to any members’ reserve areas on midweek racedays. You will be required to wear the following:
Ladies
Ladies need to maintain a suitable standard and are allowed to wear untailored slacks, chinos, or jeans without rips. No sports shows, slippers, or thongs are allowed, along with playsuits, torn or ripped clothing, and leggings worn as pants. You are also not permitted to wear clothing that shows your midriff or any denim jackets, tracksuit tops, or duffle coats.
Gentleman
Gentleman will need to wear neat and tidy pants, including chinos, untailored slacks or jeans. Jackets and ties are optional, but encouraged and you are not permitted to wear joggers, sports shorts, sandals, or any tracksuits. You should also avoid torn clothing, tracksuits, football jerseys, and peaked caps or beanies.
Dining smart casual
When visiting the premium dining areas midweek and on Saturday races, you will need to maintain the following dress code:
Ladies
Ladies will need to follow a smart casual dress code and dress smartly in raceday attire. Heels are optional, and the following are not permitted:
- Denim
- Fancy dress
- Tattered shoes or clothing
- Sneakers or thongs
- Offensive attire
Gentleman
Gentlemen will need to follow a smart casual dress code, wearing a tucked-in collared shirt and tie. This should be paired with trousers or slacks and dress shoes. During daylight saving, jackets are optional, and the following are not permitted at any time:
- Denim
- Fancy dress
- Tattered clothing or shoes
- Sneakers or thongs
- Offensive attire
General admission
General admission dress code is in place for midweek and Saturday races, where you will need smart casual attire. For both ladies and gentlemen, fancy dress, tattered clothing, thongs, and offensive attire are not permitted.
- Check what races are on
Randwick is home to 45 races a year, so you are sure to find one that lines up with when you want to visit. Their full race day calendar is available online, or you can contact the race track directly to find out more. Many race days will sell out in advance, so it is best to purchase your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. When purchasing your tickets, make sure you purchase the right option for you and check the dress code in advance.
- Make dinner reservations
If you are planning to spend your entire day at the race track, we recommend making dinner reservations, especially if you want to enjoy a premium dining experience. These can be popular, especially on big race days, so book in advance to avoid disappointment! Randwick has several fantastic dining options to choose from, and pop-up food and bar options during big events too, providing something for everyone.
Plan your trip to Randwick race track today
Armed with our four tips, you can plan your trip and make the most out of Randwick race course. Before heading off, we recommend checking out Ladbrokes to learn more about upcoming races and to access the best odds for your bets. Check out Ladbrokes before you head to the Randwick race track today.
