Royal Randwick Racecourse

There are race days, and then there are days at Randwick. Royal Randwick Racecourse is one of the great racing venues of the Southern Hemisphere; established in 1833, impeccably maintained, and home to some of Australia’s most prestigious race meetings. The Everest. The Sydney Cup. The Golden Rose. The ATC Australian Derby. These are not merely races; they are set pieces on the Australian sporting calendar, drawing owners, trainers, punters and racegoers from across the country and well beyond.

The course itself is beautifully presented, the Members precinct among the finest in the country, and the racing consistently at the highest level. On the right afternoon, with the right company, Randwick offers something that is genuinely hard to replicate. A combination of sporting passion, social occasion and the particular pleasure of a well-spent Sydney day outdoors.

For visitors travelling to Sydney specifically for racing, whether for a carnival meeting or a Group 1 feature, Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport makes excellent logistical sense. For Sydney locals, Randwick at its best is a full-day proposition, and a hotel stay gives the occasion the space it deserves.

Getting to Royal Randwick from Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport

By car: The drive from Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport to Royal Randwick Racecourse takes approximately 15–20 minutes via Botany Road and Anzac Parade. Parking on course is available on race days, though spaces are limited for major carnival meetings and pre-booking is recommended.

By train and bus: Take the train from Mascot to Central, then connect via bus directly to the racecourse. Alternatively, the light rail L2 to Randwick provides a straightforward connection on race days. Total journey time from the hotel is approximately 30–35 minutes.

By taxi or rideshare: A direct rideshare to the racecourse takes around 15–20 minutes from the hotel. Drop-off on Alison Road adjacent to the main entrance is well-signposted and convenient on race days.

Image Credit: Destination NSW