‘The McCallums’ inclusive wedding at the world’s best racecourse – York!  

Paul told us all about his love story with Duncan and why they chose to celebrate their love at York Racecourse. Here it is, in Paul’s own words.

“Duncan and I met at his bar over 10 years ago. Then, three years ago, I held an event at his bar…. skipping to 14 months later, I popped the question on a chilly New Year’s Eve on his stage, thankfully Duncan said yes!

If I was asked to describe our wedding in one word, It would be ‘exceptional’ (one of many I would choose), from the initial pre-wedding meeting with our lovely coordinator Rebecca, to the run up to the wedding. The York Racecourse people involved couldn’t have gone any further, and went way above-and-beyond from any expectations, from every small detail or request made. Nothing was any bother. They ensured I was calm and okay, starting with pre-wedding stress all the way through to our wedding day. The York Racecourse team made it feel seamless and we cannot thank you enough for every moment they helped create for the McCallum wedding.

Our special day wasn’t just important to us, it was important to all our family, friends, colleagues, and more. Everyone knew they had a place and we’re welcomed. Whilst our wedding very much had a stunning autumnal theme, it was about inclusivity, being in a safe place and a place of belonging.”

Paul and Duncan

What a spectacular September wedding day for Paul and Duncan! The Welsh and Scotsman got married on 27th September 2025 at York Racecourse. They had close to 200 daytime guests, and increasing to 350 for their evening reception.

They were our very first couple to host their nuptials in the surroundings of our most recent development, the Bustardthorpe Lawn. Staging their outdoor wedding ceremony under the Churchill Canopy with spectacular autumnal hues which carried throughout into their wedding breakfast and beyond. With shimmering bow-tied chivari chairs and garlands of fall leaves, flickering candles and stunning faux seasonal trees to complement. They then celebrated with a Champagne toast in the popular Theakston bar, followed by a wedding breakfast offering views of the Knavesmire and racetrack.

Friends and family enjoyed a delicious home-cooked three course meal starting with a homemade minestrone soup, followed by chicken supreme, dauphinoise potato, wilted greens, roasted carrot and thyme jus, and rounding off with an unctuous warm sticky toffee pudding, crème anglaise and gingerbread cream.

For “All the Lovers”, on “A Night Like This” (can you guess where we are leading? Read on..) the evening party was “Magic” and by special request started in our themed Kylie Bar no less. Of course, we offer Ms Minogue’s popular range of prosecco and wines. Guests feasted on fresh locally caught fish and chips from our very own shop. Transformed into a nightclub for the evening celebrations, the Voltigeur Suite was lit by a wall of sparkling star cloth. The newlyweds and their guests enjoyed a fun night of dancing and entertainment.

Of course, the good old British weather can be unreliable. Some couples may prefer to host their ceremony indoors in one of our fantastic range of suites. We are so fortunate to have a great range of beautiful indoor and outdoor event spaces here at York Racecourse.

Learn more about Weddings at York Racecourse

And so the message in Paul and Duncan’s great love story is… at York Racecourse they’ve got a blank canvas. Let us help paint your picture perfect wedding!

Do you love the idea of being able to create a bespoke area and theme your celebration? Rebecca, our wedding coordinator would love to chat and show you our options! Give her a call on 01904 638971.