News & Events

Racehorse Sanctuary Open Day

Racehorse Sanctuary & Rehoming Centre Open Day | Saturday 5th September 2026 | 12 noon – 4 pm

Looking for a memorable family day out while supporting a worthwhile cause? Join us on Saturday, 5th September for the Racehorse Sanctuary & Rehoming Centre Open Day. Everyone is welcome to visit the sanctuary, meet our retired racehorses and discover how we provide lifelong care, rehabilitation and rehoming opportunities for former racehorses.

Whether you’re passionate about horses, involved in the racing community or simply looking for a fun afternoon out in the countryside, our annual open day offers something for visitors of all ages.

racehorse-sanctuary-open-dayMeet our retired racehorses

One of the highlights of the day is the opportunity to meet the wonderful horses living at the sanctuary. Many have enjoyed successful racing careers before retiring, while others have required specialist care before beginning a new chapter in life.

Our knowledgeable team and volunteers will be available throughout the day to answer your questions and explain how the sanctuary helps retired thoroughbreds recover, retrain and, wherever possible, find suitable new homes. You’ll also learn more about the ongoing care, dedication and support these incredible horses require after racing.

A fantastic family afternoon

Racehorse-sanctuary-open-dayOur open day offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with plenty to enjoy throughout the afternoon, including:

  • Meet our resident racehorses
  • Learn about racehorse rehabilitation and rehoming
  • Browse equestrian, country lifestyle and charity stalls
  • Enjoy delicious burgers, hot dogs and refreshments
  • Enter or watch our popular Dog Show
  • Meet fellow horse lovers and supporters of the sanctuary

Whether you stay for an hour or the whole afternoon, there’s plenty to see, do and enjoy.

Dog show with pedigree, mixed breed and novelty classes

Our popular Dog Show is always one of the biggest attractions of the day. Open to pedigree dogs, mixed breeds and family pets, the show includes a variety of novelty classes that are guaranteed to entertain competitors and spectators alike.

Bring your dog along and join in the fun, or simply relax and cheer on the entrants.

Support a charity giving racehorses a second chance

Every visitor helps support the important work carried out by the Racehorse Sanctuary & Rehoming Centre. Funds raised from the open day contribute towards the daily care, veterinary treatment, feeding and rehabilitation of retired racehorses, helping ensure they enjoy safe, healthy and fulfilling lives beyond racing.

Your visit makes a genuine difference to the welfare of these magnificent horses.

Admission

  • Date: Saturday 5th September 2026
  • Adult Entry: £5
  • Children: Free
  • Everyone Welcome

Racehorse-sanctuary-Open-dayTrade stands available

Would you like to promote your business to our horse lovers and supporters? A limited number of trade stand pitches are available. For information about availability and pricing, please contact Catherine McIlwraith by email.

We look forward to welcoming you

Whether you’re visiting to meet the horses, browse the stalls, enjoy the food or enter your dog in the show, our Racehorse Sanctuary Open Day promises to be a wonderful day for the whole family.

Come along on Saturday 5th September and help us continue providing retired racehorses with the care, compassion and second chances they deserve.

Dog photo by Timur Shakerzianov on Unsplash

For the love of ex-racehorses