Laytown Strand Races 2026

What to Expect

The Laytown Strand Races on Thursday 10 September 2026 are a unique event in world racing - the only official horse race meeting run on a beach under Irish Rules and HRI authority. Since 1868, horses have competed on the tidal strand at Laytown, and the races depend on low tide being at the right time to expose the natural beach track. Gates open at 2:30pm and the first race is approximately 4:30pm.

Good to Know

• Thursday 10 September 2026, Laytown Beach. Gates open 2:30pm; first race approx. 4:30pm.

• The only official beach horse racing in Europe - run on tidal strand since 1868.

• Book tickets in advance; capacity is limited by the beach setting.

• Contingent on tidal and weather conditions.

Getting There

Laytown is on the east Meath coast, served by the Dublin-Drogheda commuter rail line with a station in Laytown/Bettystown. Parking available locally - follow event signage on the day.