Product Description

Writer and psychologist Stephen Cartmell set off to explore Britain using the cultural melting pot of the UK's 60 racecourses as his staging posts. During his travels the author observed the frequent absurdity of the British, the peculiarities of their institutions and developed a satirical critique of one of the country's favourite pastimes. With his acute eye for observation, an appreciation of the ridiculous and the ability to find humor even in the face of petty officialdom, this acclaimed book is not simply a travelogue of racing but a key to understanding Britain and its curiously comical inhabitants. Racegoer, traveler or first time visitor, Stephen Cartmell's colorful stories are sure to entertain.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #10100 in Books
• Published on: 2006-04-03
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 352 pages

DAILY TELEGRAPH, SPORT, 30 March 2006
This is a practical and (above all) comprehensive work.

NUTS, 7 April 2006
A top-notch must read for gee-gee fans.

From the Back Cover
With his acute eye for observation, an appreciation of the ridiculous and the ability to find humour even in the face of petty officialdom, Stephen Cartmell’s FROM AINTREE TO YORK is not simply about racing – but a satirical exploration of quintessential British life.

Whether you are a regular racegoer or first-time visitor, this book will enhance the rich and varied experience of a day at the races. In this highly entertaining travel guide, Stephen Cartmell chronicles his expedition around the British Isles, using the cultural melting pot of its sixty racecourses as his staging posts. During these journeys, the author observed the frequent absurdity of the British, the peculiarities of their institutions and developed an irreverent critique of one of the country's favourite pastimes.

‘Cartmell is afraid of offending no one… he peppers his droll prose with some scathing criticism. A kind of ‘Rough Guide’ counterpoint to the glossy and over-polite Travelling the Turf annual’ Racing Post

Customer Reviews

Humorous, informative and more...
Although I've only visited a few of the courses described within, since reading the book I am itching to visit more. There are some wonderful stories to accompany the sound reference that this book provides making the whole read thoroughly enjoyable!

Amusing, informative, an enjoyable read.
Having bought this book to plug the many gaps in my knowledge on British racecourses, I was delighted to discover a book I found difficult to put down. Stephen Cartmell's warm and witty style was highly informative and very engaging.

The book is full of interesting facts not just about the racecourses but describing the surrounding areas for each one, enabling the casual reader to build up a real picture. Those who enjoy sampling on-course catering have found a sure ally in Stephen Cartmell, as descriptions of the food on offer pepper each piece.

Not just a racing guide then, but a travel book, a food guide and a snapshot of British social history. Be warned if you read it on public transport enroute to a race meeting - it's highly likely that you'll laugh out loud at least once.

Great book for novices and experts alike
I thouroughly enjoyed this book and am sure it will be used as a quick reference for years to come. I found it both informative and hilarious at the same time and it has definately increased my knowledge on the great courses we have around the UK. It was quite revealing to see how well the Author did in his betting!