Accessing Scotland's Past Project
Event ID 562669
Category Descriptive Accounts
Type Accessing Scotland's Past Project
Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/562669
The grandstand at Kelso racecourse was built in 1822 and today forms the central part of a larger structure, with modern wings at either side.
It is thought that John Carr, who also designed grandstands at Doncaster and York, drew up the plans for Kelso in 1788. Certainly, the Kelso building is very similar to that at Doncaster, consisting of a three-storeyed structure with two wide balconies and large windows.
The Kelso races have always proved a big attraction in the Borders. When the current racecourse was opened, there was great delight amongst the people of Kelso, as it was only 1.6km from the town. Previously, the course had been located much further away and was also unpopular, as it had no grandstand.
Text prepared by RCAHMS as part of the Accessing Scotland's Past project
