Fontwell Park’s prestigious Southern National Raceday returns this November for a day of racing, countryside entertainment and family fun!
Sunday 15 November 2026 | Fontwell Park Racecourse, West Sussex
The Southern National Raceday returns to Fontwell Park Racecourse on Sunday 15 November, bringing one of the highlights of the autumn jump racing season to West Sussex for a day of high-stakes racing, countryside entertainment and family fun.
Staged on Fontwell Park’s unique figure-of-eight jumps course, the Southern National is a renowned test of stamina and determination. The feature race covers 3 miles and 3 furlongs, with horses and jockeys facing a demanding challenge around one of the UK’s most distinctive National Hunt tracks. The race will also be broadcast live on ITV Racing, bringing the action to audiences across the country.
The 2026 Southern National takes place as part of a six-race jumps card, with gates opening at 10.50am, the first race at 12.50pm and the final race scheduled for 3.40pm (timings are subject to change)
Recent winners of the Southern National include Tommie Beau (2023), Unanswered Prayers (2024) and Livin On Luco (2025), setting the scene for another competitive renewal of one of Fontwell Park’s most eagerly anticipated races.
A celebration of the countryside
This year’s Southern National Raceday is about more than racing, with Fontwell Park bringing the atmosphere of the countryside to life throughout the day.
Visitors can discover more about the people, skills and traditions behind the sport and the countryside, with Chichester Young Farmers and their machinery, tractor displays, jockey activations, outdoor games and an appearance from David Crosse and his Equicizer, offering a fascinating insight into the world of horseracing.
The Aldingbourne Trust will be the charity partner for the day, bringing a range of outdoor games and activities to Fontwell Park for racegoers to enjoy.
The event is designed to offer something for everyone, whether visitors are experienced racegoers, families looking for an autumn day out or those discovering jump racing for the first time.
Guy Pridie, Executive Director at Fontwell Park Racecourse, said:
“The Southern National Raceday is one of the real highlights of our year at Fontwell. It combines everything that makes a day at the races special: exceptional jump racing, the atmosphere of the countryside and a great opportunity to bring friends and family together.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming racegoers back for what promises to be another fantastic day, with plenty happening both on and off the track.”
A great-value day out
With racing at the centre of the day, visitors will have views of the finishing line, home straight, parade ring and winners’ enclosure, alongside access to bars, food outlets and betting facilities.
Children aged 17 and under can attend free when accompanied by an adult, making the Southern National an accessible option for a family day out.
For those looking to make more of the occasion, hospitality options include dining in the Premier Lounge Restaurant and private suites.
With the Southern National Raceday combining the drama of National Hunt racing with the atmosphere of a traditional countryside day out, Fontwell Park Racecourse is inviting visitors to make Sunday 15 November a date for the diary.
Find out more and book tickets here:
https://www.fontwellpark.co.uk/whats-on/southern-national-raceday
