Newcastle racecourse is a dual purpose racecourse offering both Flat and National Hunt racing. There are highlights in both disciplines with the Northumberland Plate a well-contested Heritage Handicap and one of the highlights of National Hunt racing around Newcastle the Fighting Fifth Hurdle and the Eider Chase with the latter seen as a Grand National Trial run over 4 miles and 1 furlong. Racing at Newcastle can be considered on the upgrade with both increases in the number of race goers and also the quality of horses being attracted to Newcastle which makes for excellent betting opportunities.