250 Years of the St Leger Festival: Doncaster's Greatest Tradition
The Race That Started in a Pub
Every September, Doncaster hosts one of the biggest events in British racing — and it's been going strong since 1776. The idea was born in the Red Lion pub in the Market Place, where Anthony St Leger and the Marquess of Rockingham hatched a plan over a pint. Today, a brass plaque marks that historic meeting.
From Cantley Common to Town Moor
The St Leger Stakes began as a 25-Guinea sweepstake on Cantley Common. Two years later, the race moved to Town Moor, got its famous name, and the rest is history. The first horses to travel by van didn't arrive until 1836.
A Roll Call of Greatness
The St Leger is still Yorkshire's only Classic — the grand finale of the racing season and the last leg of the Triple Crown:
- West Australia — first Triple Crown champion in 1853
- Sceptre — smashed four Classics in 1902
- Theodore — the ultimate underdog at 200/1 in 1822
The Race Goes National
The advent of the railways opened it up nationally. In 1876, a staggering 233 special excursion trains rolled into Doncaster for the St Leger. Race week was party time — schools and industries closed, visitors came for hunts in the morning, racing in the afternoon, and glittering balls by night.
The 2026 250th Anniversary Festival: 10–13 September
The 250th St Leger Festival promises to draw record crowds. The four-day celebration includes Ladies Day, Doncaster Cup Day, St Leger Day, and Sunday Funday. Visitors enjoy champagne breakfasts at The Earl of Doncaster and after parties at The Regent Hotel.
Getting to Doncaster Racecourse
S24 Travel provides fixed-price race day transfers to Doncaster Racecourse from across South Yorkshire. Avoid the parking queues and arrive in style. Call 07723 036 964 or get an instant quote online.
Need a ride from Doncaster?
Book your airport transfer or private hire with S24 Travel — fixed prices, no hidden fees.