York racecourse raises hospitality stakes

A Yorkshire-based sporting venue is set to upgrade its premium hospitality offer as part of a major refurbishment ahead of the 2026 season.

York Racecourse has appointed DT Sports to lead the renovation of the Knavesmire Stand Boxes, its flagship hospitality space overlooking the final furlong. 

The six-figure project will transform the fourth-floor area into a high-end environment capable of hosting up to 280 racegoers.

DT Sports is a specialist sports and hospitality interior design division of Yorkshire commercial interior design firm Design Tonic. 

The plans include the refurbishment of 11 private suites, enhanced catering facilities and bespoke interiors, with large screens installed throughout the space.

Flexibility sits at the heart of the redesign, allowing the hospitality boxes to adapt easily for smaller groups, multiple bookings or large corporate events.

Gavin Pattison, York Racecourses’ facilities manager and project lead, said: “Our vision is to offer a best-in-class experience for every guest who comes through our doors, ensuring their day at York is truly memorable.

“The transformation of the Knavesmire Stand fourth floor represents an exciting step forward in enhancing the quality, comfort and flexibility of our hospitality offering. 

“We’re delighted to be working with Design Tonic to bring this ambitious project to life.”

Will Snaith, director at Design Tonic, added: “We’re incredibly excited to have been appointed to lead the redesign of such an iconic space within one of the country’s most celebrated racecourses.

“Our team is passionate about creating environments that not only look exceptional but deliver an outstanding experience for visitors. 

“This project is a fantastic opportunity to showcase that approach, and we’re excited to work closely with the York Racecourse team to realise their vision for an outstanding premium hospitality suite in the Knavesmire Stand.”

The Knavesmire Stand opened in 1997 and forms a key part of York Racecourse, which hosts 18 fixtures each summer and welcomes up to 60,000 spectators. 

Works are now underway, with the new hospitality suite expected to be completed in spring 2026.

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