£1.5m revamp for The Hennessy restaurant at Newbury Racecourse

The Hennessy Restaurant has officially reopened at Newbury Racecourse to kick start the new flat season.

Having first opened in 2003, The Hennessy – which has been the most popular hospitality suite at Newbury Racecourse for a number of years – has just undergone a 14-week, £1.5m revamp.

The unveiling of the new space revealed a modernised restaurant offering panoramic views across the racetrack above the winning post.

It was officially opened last Friday (April 21), on the eve of the Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials Weekend, with racegoers welcomed from the next day.

Julian Thick, Newbury Racecourse CEO, said: ‘’We’re thrilled to be able to unveil the refreshed Hennessy Restaurant, our signature hospitality space here at Newbury Racecourse.

“The new restaurant offers racegoers the opportunity to enjoy our year-round action from the ultimate surrounds, with picture-perfect views along the entirety of the racecourse from an impressive vantage point high above the finish line.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming racegoers and guests into The Hennessy in the coming days and weeks and we’re confident those joining us will share our excitement.’’

The renovation – which increases The Hennessy’s capacity to 340 guests – has created a four-tier dining experience, alongside the creation of new VIP booths, a new foyer and greeting area, as well as modernised facilities throughout.

Head chef Paul Holliday is still creating a traditional fine dining a la carte menu and Chapel Down, an English wine producer with an award-winning range of sparkling and still wines, are the racecourse’s exclusive English wine supplier.

The reopening of The Hennessy means the racecourse now has over 1,500 hospitality spaces available across a race day.

The Hennessy’s revamped space is also available on non-race days for events such as conferences, awards ceremonies and banquets.