(Image: Supplied)
Horse racing fans will be given a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into training yards in a North Yorkshire town when an open day returns in aid of charity.
The 2026 Malton Open Day will take place on Sunday, September 6, giving the public an opportunity to explore some of the area’s top racing yards while raising funds for Racing Welfare, a charity that supports people working in the thoroughbred industry.
Running from 8.45am to noon, the day offers a close-up look at the facilities, routines, and atmosphere of working stables, as well as the horses and teams behind the sport.
Trainer Craig Lidster said: "Malton Open Day is a fantastic experience for people who don’t normally get to see the day-in and day-out of how a racehorse is prepared.
"It provides the opportunity to get up close and personal with our kind-natured racehorses and pose questions to the experienced and passionate racing staff, all whilst having a great family day out!"
Participating yards for 2026 include Adrian Keatley, Craig Lidster, Mick and David Easterby, John Wainwright, Richard and Peter Fahey, Ollie Pears, Suzzanne France, Sara Ender, and Mike Sowersby.
Jack Berry House, the Injured Jockey’s Fund’s rehabilitation and fitness centre, will also open to visitors from 11am to 2pm.
This year’s event is sponsored by Arena Racing Company (ARC).
Beck Edmunds, community engagement manager at Racing Welfare, said: "The ARC Malton Open Day is always a real highlight in the calendar, giving visitors a rare chance to step inside some of the area’s leading training yards and see first-hand the people, horses and dedication that make racing so special.
"It’s a brilliant day out for racing fans and families alike, and every ticket sold helps Racing Welfare continue its vital work supporting racing’s workforce."
Racing Welfare has teamed up with York Racecourse to offer a joint ticket option covering both the Malton Open Day and the YorkMix Family Raceday.
The YorkMix Family Raceday will include top-class racing and family entertainment.
It also includes entry to the Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure at York Racecourse, with gates opening at 11.15am and racing and entertainment continuing into the afternoon.
Ms Edmunds said: "We’re hugely grateful to the yards taking part, to ARC for their generous sponsorship and to York Racecourse for helping us offer a fantastic, combined ticket.
"From seeing horses at the stables in the morning to enjoying the YorkMix Family Raceday in the afternoon, it’s a wonderful way to experience the journey from training yard to racecourse."
Read more
Popular Ladies' Day event returns to North Yorkshire racecourse
Bishop Auckland driver matches record with six wins at Scottish meeting
Beamish Museum summer activities revealed - things to do and family prices
Organisers say visitors can park at each participating yard.
Postcodes and details are available on the Malton Open Day website.
Adult tickets cost £10 for the Malton Open Day alone and £20 for the joint ticket with York Racecourse.
Under-18s can attend both events free of charge when accompanied by an adult.
For tickets and further information, visit www.maltonopenday.co.uk.