The Racecourse Prices Index: how much for food and drink at Ludlow?

The Racecourse Prices Index (RPI) is a new and occasional series, in which we report from each of Britain and Ireland's racetracks on the cost of going racing.

Racecourse report: entry, food and pint prices from Ludlow

Ludlow: staged its final meeting until OctoberCredit: Edward Whitaker

Ludlow

Date visited: Monday, May 23, 2022

Was it a big day?

No. It was the track's final meeting until October with a few interesting handicaps.

How much was entry on the gate?

£23 to the main racecourse but £11 to get into the course section. This area has a few bookmakers and facilities.

Other than restaurants/hospitality, what were the food and beverage options?

Fairly limited. An old-school canteen underneath the grandstand served a traditional menu of pasties, pies and chips.

Next door is a bar with a surprisingly good choice. The Ludlow ale and Black Knight stout is from the town's brewery while I was surprised to see Dortmunder in rural Shropshire. All were priced competitively.

On the inside of the track, a little window can be spotted at the bottom of the tower featuring the judges' box. There's a small selection of things here, such as coffee and tea. There is also a burger and ice cream van in the cheaper course section of the racecourse.

What's the damage?

Bottle of water: £1.50
Cheapest pint: £4 (with an additional £1 for the reusable plastic cup)
Guinness: not available but £4 for the Black Knight Stout
Burger: £4
Chips: £2.50

All drink prices taken from the main racecourse bar, or where there are multiple bars, one chosen at random.

What was the burger like?

I was feeling radical so tried the hot pork roll at £4, and it was nice without being anything to shout about. According to the caterers, it was all made fresh in the kitchen yet I dispute claims it was "big on flavour". 2/5.

And the queues?

Quiet. It is a Monday, though.

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