Theakston raises the stakes with the launch of new bar at York Racecourse

Family run brewery T&R Theakston is raising a salute to one of racing’s great jockeys with the launch of its new cask and premium keg ale bar at the home of Yorkshire’s biggest racecourse, the Knavesmire in York.

The ‘Flying Frankie’ was officially opened on 17 May by its champion namesake Frankie Dettori during the first day of the Dante Festival.

The Italian jockey, who raced on the opening day of the festival, took the time to open the bar alongside joint managing director of Theakston, Simon Theakston.

Located at the southern end of the County Stand, near the John Carr Terrace, the bar will be serving a range of Theakston’s premium ales, including the iconic Old Peculier. Theakston Paradise Gold dry vintage cider and its beer spirit, Theakston Spirit of Old Peculier will also be stocked alongside a range of wines, pre-mixed spirits and soft drinks.

The brewery has also created a special hazy IPA, Theakston Ebor, exclusively for racegoers.

Simon Theakston, joint managing director commented: “It’s a wonderful opportunity to be given by the Racecourse Committee to establish a new bar for County Stand members. Theakston values its long association with the York Racecourse and everyone is thrilled to be expanding our relationship with this new offering for visitors.

“To have Frankie join us to open the bar which was named in his honour on the first day of the Dante Festival, is a wonderful moment for the whole Theakston team. We look forward to serving racegoers and Frankie’s many fans with some of our legendary beers.”

Decorated in the Theakston corporate colours of yellow and black, the bar marks an expansion of the Theakston’s partnership with York racecourse which also includes the brewery sponsoring the Theakston Bar in the grandstand and Paddock.