James Arthur at Newmarket Racecourse Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Carys Hayward
My partner and I attended the Newmarket July Nights’ Racecourse event on August 2nd, 2024, we had an overall wonderful experience. Spread out over the course of Friday afternoon, there was a total of six races with the first starting around 5:30, and the final race at 8:30. This was later followed into the night by a live performance from James Arthur. It felt as though we had two jam packed days into one, what a treat.
Personally, this was my first time attending an event like this. However, my partner had been to other racecourses, prior to Newmarket. He had an inkling on what it would entail, and this event far exceeded his expectations. Upon arrival there were access signs for Newmarket’s ‘July Racecourse’. It was very straightforward finding the car park, and the stewards signalled cars into organised spaces making for a quick and stress-free welcoming onto the site. – The parking itself was free, and luckily, we managed to park remarkably close to the entrance, with about a 4-minute walk to the Free Pass office.
Before entering the site, security carried out bag checks, and also had detection dogs walking around. This ensured guests were entering a safe and controlled environment, which I appreciated.
With making this review we were kindly gifted Premier tickets, granting us access to the Premier enclosure – a gated off area, that was separate from the main part. Immediately after collecting our tickets we headed straight there. Once in we grabbed some cider from the Suffolk bar; the drinks were on the dearer side, but it is expected for this kind of event. Water however was free, and refillable from water dispensers around the bar. I want to add that there was a handful of bars and food stands to choose from, some exhibiting music which really contributed to a delightful atmosphere.
Throughout our afternoon we enjoyed some pizza and ate this on the grandstands, giving us an excellent view of one of the races. (Although being able to actually get a spot on the stands varied throughout the day.) My partner was able to place a handful of bets at the betting stands, distributed around the ground, with him striking gold at the final race. That winning definitely set the tone for the rest of the evening.
The stage was set up between the grandstands, in the premier enclosure. I would definitely advise paying that bit extra for a premier ticket, as we were able to make our way to the stage before standard ticket holders, whom of which had to queue up before the performance began. James Arthur’s showing was no doubt the highlight of our day, he was incredible, singing both classics and songs from his new album. The atmosphere from the crowd was great, everyone singing, dancing and just evidently having a wonderful time. The sun was beginning to set as he performed, which then carried on into darkness, it was perfect. A brilliant set after a fun day in the sun, being entertained from the races, and then uplifted by music. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend an event like this more, and no doubt will I be returning again.
Rating: 5/5
For further information, please visit : https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/live/
https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/newmarket/events-tickets/newmarket-nights/james-arthur/