Plumpton Racecourse is delighted that its flagship Easter Festival has been shortlisted for Tourism Event of the Year at the Beautiful South Awards.

The racecourse – located at the foot of the South Downs in East Sussex – is best known for its Easter Festival, which attracts racegoers from across the South of England to Plumpton.

With quality horse racing and an action-packed entertainment programme, the Easter Festival is popular for people of all ages, with the bonus of free entry for accompanied under 18s making it an affordable family day out.

The event, held on Easter Sunday and Monday each year, was a resounding success in 2022 and Dan Thompson, the Chief Executive of Plumpton Racecourse, is thrilled that it has attracted recognition on a regional scale.

“We are very pleased to be nominated for Tourism Event of the Year”, said Thompson. “A lot of work throughout the season goes into planning and delivering the Easter Festival, and it’s brilliant to see the team being rewarded for their efforts.

“This year was our first Easter Festival with crowds since 2019 and it was fantastic to see so many families enjoying themselves at our flagship event once again.

“We had over 10,000 people visit us over the two days, and we can’t wait to do it all again in April next year.”

The winners of the Beautiful South Awards, which is organised by Tourism South East, will be announced on December 13 at a ceremony taking place at the Grand Brighton.

Fran Downton, Chief Executive of Tourism South East, said: “Congratulations to all our finalists. The Beautiful South Awards is a fantastic opportunity, showcasing the very best that the region has to offer. I wish them all the very best of luck and look forward to celebrating with them all.”

Plumpton is one of four businesses shortlisted for the Tourism Event/Festival of the Year category. The other finalists are Christmas at Cowdray, Royal Ascot, and Experience Christmas at Kent Life.