Exploring Lincoln's Horse Racing Past

Lincoln isn’t just a city of historic streets and iconic landmarks, it also has a fascinating sporting history. Horse racing has been part of Lincoln’s story for hundreds of years, bringing excitement, competition, and local pride to the city and surrounding countryside.

Horse racing in Lincoln dates back to at least the 17th Century, with annual race meetings becoming a popular social and sporting event. The races were often held on open fields near the city, attracting spectators from Lincolnshire and beyond. These early events laid the groundwork for Lincoln’s reputation as a centre for equestrian sport.

Lincoln is well known for the Lincoln Handicap, a historic flat horse race that continues to attract attention today despite no longer being held in the city.

• First run in 1849, the Lincoln Handicap became one of the UK’s premier flat races.

• It drew large crowds to the Lincoln racecourse which was on the city’s West Common, with people from all over Lincolnshire gathering to witness thrilling finishes.

• The event helped establish Lincoln’s national reputation in horse racing circles and contributed to local economic and social life.

• Following the closure of the racecourse in the 1960s, the Lincoln Handicap is still held today at Doncaster Racecourse.

• The grandstand built in 1897 for the racecourse can still be seen overlooking the West Common and is now used as a community centre.

• Silverware from races of years gone by can be seen in Lincoln's Medieval Guildhall.

Throughout history, Lincolnshire’s open fields and racecourses provided the perfect setting for racing.

• Local racecourses became venues not only for sporting events but also for social gatherings, fairs and festivals.

• These venues were often tied to local inns and pubs, creating a lively atmosphere for spectators and jockeys alike.

• Over time, Lincolnshire’s racecourses hosted notable horses and jockeys, leaving a lasting legacy in British equestrian sport.

  
  

Lincoln has produced notable jockeys and seen remarkable horses pass through its racecourses:

• Local trainers and jockeys often began their careers in Lincoln, honing their skills on the city’s courses.

• Historic races were sometimes attended by royalty and notable figures, reflecting the prestige of Lincoln’s racing scene.

• The tradition inspired generations of horse lovers, contributing to Lincolnshire’s strong equestrian culture that continues today.

While modern horse racing has moved to larger, specialised tracks, Lincoln’s equestrian heritage is still celebrated in the city:

• Local riding schools and equestrian centres preserve the skills and traditions of the sport.

• Residents of Lincoln can still apply for permits to graze horses on the city's areas of common land.

• Annual events and historical commemorations remind locals and visitors of the city’s role in British horse racing history.

• For visitors, exploring Lincoln’s streets and nearby countryside provides a sense of the historic atmosphere where spectators once cheered on their favourite horses.

Lincoln’s rich history isn’t limited to horse racing, it’s visible in the streets, architecture, and stories of the people who lived here. A Lincoln Free Walking Tour allows you to:

• Hear fascinating stories of the city’s sporting past.

• Learn about local figures connected to Lincoln’s equestrian history.

• Explore landmarks that played a part in Lincoln’s racing and social life.

  
  

In particular look out for our free walking tour of Lincoln's West Common. Check the website calendar and keep an eye on our social channels for more information.

Book a walking tour now and experience the city through its sporting and cultural heritage.