The Scottish Grand National at Ayr Racecourse is a jump racing meeting, which – in the UK and Ireland – is known as National Hunt racing. The races are not only a test of speed, but also stamina and strength due to the obstacles over which the horses must jump; these can either be hurdles in a hurdle race or a variety of larger jumps in a steeplechase race. Different races at the meeting are of varying lengths, with varying sizes and quantities of jumps, and have different numbers of runners and riders entered.
The feature race of the 2-day meeting is the Scottish Grand National which is a Grade 3 National Hunt steeplechase open to horses aged 5 years or older. It is run over a distance of about 4 miles (3 miles 7 furlongs and 176 yards, or 6,397 metres) and during its running, there are 27 fences to be jumped. It is a handicap race and takes place each year in April. It is Scotland's equivalent of the Grand National.
There is a fantastic range of bars and eateries throughout the course. The Colours Cafe is located in the Ayrshire Suite and the Silks Cafe Bistro is on the first floor of the Princess Royal Suite. Catering to all tastes, there are street food outlets throughout the course and a coffee shop on the first floor of the Princess Royal Suite.
At certain meetings, the Seasons Restaurant by the Mumm Champagne Lawns will be open serving 2-course meals and ensuring you a seat for the day.
It is not permitted to bring your own food and drink into the racecourse, with the exception of the 2 family racedays held at the course, when picnic food is allowed.
Entry gates normally open 2 hours before the first race. During the winter months, this differs as the first race is earlier and gates open at 11:00. At the Scottish Grand National Saturday and the Ayr Gold Cup gates also open at 11:00.
There are toilet facilities located throughout the venue.