The King George & Boxing Day Tradition
Kempton Park Racecourse, situated near Sunbury-on-Thames in north-west Surrey, is best known as the home of the King George VI Chase, one of the most prestigious steeplechases in the National Hunt calendar. Run over three miles on Boxing Day, the King George has been won by legends such as Arkle, Desert Orchid, Kauto Star and Clan Des Obeaux. For many racing fans, the Boxing Day trip to Kempton is as much a Christmas tradition as the turkey itself.
The course also stages a busy programme of all-weather flat racing on its Polytrack surface throughout the year, along with additional jump fixtures during the winter months. Evening meetings under floodlights are a particular draw during the summer, combining racing with a social night out.
Facilities & Access
Kempton’s modern grandstand offers multiple levels of viewing, dining and hospitality. The course is one of the most accessible in the country, sitting just off the A308 and within easy reach of the M3 (junction 1) and M25. Sunbury and Kempton Park railway stations are both nearby, and free shuttle buses often run from the station on major racedays. For Surrey residents in the Weybridge, Walton-on-Thames and Esher areas, Kempton is the closest major racecourse and a natural choice for a day’s racing.
