The Northumberland Plate Festival returns to Newcastle Racecourse from June 25 to 27, with Plate Day on June 27 as the highlight. This historic event, originally known as the Pitmen's Derby, attracts around 20,000 racegoers annually. The festival concludes with post-race entertainment, this year featuring Day Fever, a disco experience with hits from the 1980s to the 2000s.
Travel Tips
By Car: The racecourse is well signposted from the A1, A19, and main approach roads. Taxi: From the city centre or Central Station, expect fares of £15-£20. Recommended: LA Taxis (0191 287 7777). Bus: From Haymarket bus station, routes 43 and 44 run every 10-15 minutes to Racecourse Road entrance. Also X15, X22, X21, X11 from Haymarket, and X18 from Eldon Square. On Plate Day and Ladies Day, buses drop off near after-party venues. Shuttle Bus: Closest Metro stations are Regent Centre and Four Lane Ends (2 miles away), with shuttle buses on race days.
Timings
Gates open at 11am. The first of seven flat races is at 1.15pm. The main event, the Northumberland Plate race, starts around 2.05pm (estimated). The last race is at 4.45pm. Times may vary due to TV commitments.
Tickets
Options range from standard entry to hospitality packages. Grandstand super advance tickets cost £46 online, offering access to main areas, public bars, eateries, and betting outlets. Premier Enclosure tickets are £59.50. VIP Centre Course enclosure (with stretch-tent, trackside views, food/drink) costs £95. Packages include Pizza & Prosecco or Burger & Beer for £149, and Bottomless Brunch for £199. Children aged 17 and under enter free with an adult.
Entertainment
Day Fever, a daytime club experience with DJ Jonny Owen, will play classic anthems from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s after the last race. The event runs as the sun sets over Gosforth Park.
Food and Drink Rules
Picnics without alcohol are allowed in designated areas for some events, but not for Plate Day. Outside alcohol is prohibited; bags will be searched. On-site bars, pop-up bars (selling Champagne, Pimm's), and the Border Minstrel pub offer drinks. The pub is named after the 1927 Pitmen's Derby winner.
Dress Code
No dress code for the grandstand; fancy dress is allowed. Hospitality and Premier Enclosure require smart casual: no sportswear or fancy dress, but smart trainers and jeans without rips are fine. Collared shirts recommended for restaurants, but ties not essential. No dress code for children.
Weather Tips
For sunny conditions, wear light fabrics, hats, sunscreen, and stay hydrated. In rain, bring waterproof shoes, compact umbrella, and layers. Check ChronicleLive for updated forecasts.
Ladies Day 2026
Ladies Day is on July 25, featuring Style Awards with prizes worth thousands. Post-racing entertainment includes Bongo Bingo's Party, a 90-minute DJ set, and performances by N-Trance. Confetti cannons and audience participation expected.
