Panoramic Bar & Restaurant

Since it became the first racecourse in the south of England to offer evening racing, Kempton Park has set out to add dining to race-goers' pleasures. The huge, glass-fronted Panoramic is tiered so that every table overlooks the racecourse. Although it seats 400, you won't feel overwhelmed, & a TV at each table keeps you up to date with the racing action. The food, from a modern European menu, is prepared to a reliable standard given the covers. We found tian of Cornish crab with papaya & mixed herb salad to be simple & fresh tasting, while roasted rack of lamb with crushed new potatoes & baby-glazed vegetables was tender & pink as requested. A plate of chocolate – dark torte, milk chocolate & pistachio brownie, & white chocolate ice-cream – made a sweet finish. A cocktail bar overlooking the paddock & winners' enclosure & lots of smiley staff are further pluses. Go with a gang (packages from £55 to £100 per person) & you'll have a fine old time.

Check the website for racing times.