Best Horse Racing Horses from UK and Ireland - Current and All Time Greats

Here’s a list of the best horse racing horses from the UK and Ireland, both historically and currently:

All-Time Greats:

  1. Arkle (Ireland)

    • Arkle is widely regarded as the greatest steeplechaser of all time. He won three Cheltenham Gold Cups (1964-1966) and is often considered unbeatable in his prime. His ability to dominate major races and win by wide margins has set a standard for excellence.

  2. Red Rum (UK)

    • Red Rum won the Grand National three times (1973, 1974, 1977) and is considered one of the most iconic racehorses in history. His remarkable comeback win in the 1977 Grand National cemented his place in racing lore.

  3. Frankel (UK)

    • Frankel was unbeaten in 14 races, including 10 Group 1 wins. He dominated both the UK and international racing scene and is often regarded as one of the best thoroughbreds of all time, with an exceptional career spanning from 2010 to 2012.

  4. Mill Reef (UK)

    • Mill Reef was one of the finest racehorses of the 1970s, winning the Derby (1971) and the Arc de Triomphe (1971). He was a tough competitor with great speed and stamina.

  5. Sea The Stars (Ireland)

    • Sea The Stars won six Group 1 races in a single season (2009), including the 2000 Guineas, Epsom Derby, and Arc de Triomphe. He was known for his versatility and ability to win on any surface.

  6. Kauto Star (UK)

    • Kauto Star won five King George VI Chase titles and two Cheltenham Gold Cups, proving himself one of the best staying chasers of the modern era.

  7. Best Mate (UK)

    • Best Mate won three consecutive Cheltenham Gold Cups (2002–2004), which remains a remarkable achievement in the world of jump racing.

  8. Shergar (Ireland)

    • Shergar was a superstar on the flat, winning the 1981 Derby by an incredible 10 lengths, which remains a record. His brilliant career was sadly cut short by a kidnapping in 1983.

  9. Desert Orchid (UK)

    • Desert Orchid was a beloved figure in British racing, winning major races like the King George VI Chase and the Cheltenham Gold Cup. He was a versatile performer, excelling in both hurdles and steeplechase races.

  10. Lester Piggott’s Champion Horses (UK)

  • Lester Piggott, one of the most iconic jockeys in history, partnered with some incredible horses such as Nijinsky (1970 Triple Crown winner) and Sagaro (three-time Ascot Gold Cup winner).

Current Greats:

  1. Constitution Hill (UK)

    • Constitution Hill is currently one of the most exciting horses in the UK, having dominated the National Hunt scene, including winning the Champion Hurdle in 2023. He has shown exceptional speed and consistency.

  2. Al Boum Photo (Ireland)

    • A two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner (2019, 2020), Al Boum Photo has been a leading figure in jump racing, renowned for his stamina and ability to tackle big, competitive races.

  3. Galopin des Champs (Ireland)

    • Galopin des Champs is a rising star in the National Hunt scene, having impressed with his win in the 2023 Cheltenham Festival’s Cheltenham Gold Cup, marking him as a top contender for years to come.

  4. A Plus Tard (Ireland)

    • A Plus Tard is one of the top performers in steeplechase racing, with a win in the 2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup. Known for his strong finishing ability, he has remained competitive at the highest level.

  5. Shishkin (UK)

    • Shishkin, a brilliant chase horse, has won top races like the Arkle Challenge Trophy and the Queen Mother Champion Chase. Known for his speed and jumping ability, he remains a fan favorite.

  6. Tiger Roll (Ireland)

    • Tiger Roll became a legend by winning the Grand National twice (2018, 2019). His consistency and determination made him a popular figure in the UK and Ireland’s racing scene.

  7. Appreciate It (Ireland)

    • Appreciate It won the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at the 2021 Cheltenham Festival and is seen as a rising star in National Hunt racing with a promising future.

  8. Envoi Allen (Ireland)

    • Envoi Allen, a horse with a perfect record in his early career, has secured major victories such as the 2020 Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle and is continuing to be a top contender in both hurdles and chasing events.

  9. Bruichladdich (UK)

    • Bruichladdich is a standout among current flat racing horses, showing exceptional form in the Group 1 races and performing consistently at the top level.

  10. Stradivarius (UK)

  • Stradivarius is one of the best middle-distance horses in recent history, winning the prestigious Ascot Gold Cup three times and dominating staying races. He remains a key figure in flat racing.

These horses have defined and continue to define the racing world in the UK and Ireland, both with their historic achievements and present-day dominance.

Back to blog