[2] There were a number of other short-lived courses or one-off steeplechases at, for example, Heaton Park (1827–38), Eccles (1839), Harpurhey (1845) and Stretford (on the site of the Old Trafford Cricket Ground, 1841 and 1852–4) but from 1687 to 1847, Kersal Moor was the main racing venue for Manchester.

However, a large grandstand was erected, to seat over 1,000 spectators, and the course, being bounded by the river on three sides, was easier to manage than Kersal Moor.

As the approaches to the race-ground are jealously guarded by toll-men, it follows that many urchins, penniless tramps, and artizans out of employ are annually excluded.

Of these unfortunates some turn listlessly homeward, while others, more persevering, gather in groups along the bank of the stream, and select a place for fording.

The youngsters then strip, and fasten their bundled apparel upon their heads; the men turn up their trousers, slinging their shoes and stockings over their shoulders ; thus prepared they enter the water, some crossing with comparative ease; but others, on dropping a cap, or swimming a stocking, or sinking deeper than they expected, lose heart and return, to the infinite amusement of those on the winning side.

[8]When Fitzgerald died, the property passed to his son (also called John), who refused to renew the lease when it expired in 1867 "for just and Christian reasons" and the course was closed.

New Barns (and Castle Irwell) traditionally staged the final fixture of the British flat racing season, with the highlight being the Manchester November Handicap.

Racing continued at New Barns for over 30 years but in 1889, the owners of the course were served notice that the Manchester Ship Canal Company were to seek powers to compulsorily purchase the land for the construction of a new dock and warehouses.

Dock Number 9, its warehouses & railway sidings from New Barns Junction with adjacent timber yard were built on the site of the old Steeple Chase Courses & spectator stands.

[7] Castle Irwell was the venue for the Lancashire Oaks from its inception in 1939 until 1963 and the course also staged a Classic race – the wartime substitute St. Leger Stakes in 1941.

The November Handicap attracted crowds that spread right into the city centre and England's first ever evening meeting was held on Friday 13 July 1951.

[7] However, the cost put a great strain on the course's finances and within two years financial difficulties persuaded the shareholders to sell the site.

The final race, The Goodbye Consolation Plate, was held on 9 November 1963 and won by Lester Piggott, watched by over 20,000 spectators.

[18] A concrete bridge was built across the River Irwell allowing access to the northern end of the site which was developed by Salford Council as public playing fields.

[20] A company owned by bookmaker Fred Done, who began his career at Manchester Racecourse, purchased the former student village and plans to build 500 homes on the site.