A special place that's likely to leave you hooked – and the food is good too

A decade ago, the Racing Post’s David Ashforth paid a visit to every racecourse in Britain and Ireland and rated each one. Unfortunately for Thurles, it fared worst. The facilities – moreover, the lack of any – along with the poor standard of food, was a particular bugbear for the first-time visitor, who was unimpressed to say the least with what the track had to offer.

Nobody will argue that Thurles couldn't do with a little refurbishment and if Ashforth was to visit again this season there’s not a lot that he wouldn’t recognise.

However, underneath its tired exterior lie many hidden charms, which makes it such a popular venue for what you often hear described as the ‘genuine racing fan’. Not that wanting a plush sofa or a nice warm viewing area makes you any less of a racing enthusiast, but it’s fair to say that Thurles attracts a hardier bunch of clientele, the kind who turn up come rain, hail or shine.