A day out at the races is a much loved past time in Hong Kong, and whether you’re visiting this cosmopolitan city on business or pleasure, do make a point to head over and experience one of the weekly evening races down at Happy Valley Racecourse. Located in Wanchai, a great spot if you’re on the lookout for a good Hong Kong hotel, such as the luxurious Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong, the Happy Valley Racecourse is packed every Wednesday as Hong Kongers pack the stands and trackside, after placing bets to cheer on the horses.
Constructed in 1845 to provide racing entertainment for the British residents, Happy Valley is one of two racecourses in Hong Kong, the other being the new and larger, Sha Tin Racecourse in the New Territories. However Happy Valley has the electric atmosphere and affectionate nostalgia among locals that keeps it packed weekly.
Apart from the actual races, there are plenty of things to do; if you’re new to happy valley to go early to watch the parade ring. Here you can inspect the horses up close and even take pictures if you want. The ring features 4 balconies that can seat up to 1,400 viewers ( the racecourse stands can hold up to 55,000) and a retractable roof, so rainy weather is never a problem. There’s also a beer garden located in the forecourt which offers great views of the races. An excellent place to enjoy a cold beer with friends while tucking into sizzling barbecue food, the beer garden is a good alternative to the more tense grandstands.
For anyone interested in learning more about the national treasure, the The Hong Kong Jockey Club Archive and Museum, located on the second floor of the Happy Valley Stand has four galleries filled with various exhibits and historical accounts such as the origin of the race horses from northern china and the history of the club itself.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.