The site is well laid out and easy to navigate with clever use of dropdown menus that allows players to check the latest prices on various events quickly. Users can also select races from assorted cards and display them all on one page, a handy tool that saves clicking back and forwards through the site.
Looking to the markets available, an above average number of early-price races are on offer along with a decent range of ante-post books and a handful of topical specials - so the basics are well covered.
One particular specialty is a comprehensive US racing service where users are able to bet directly into the racetrack pools on a wide range of markets, including Pick 6, Daily Doubles and Superfectas.
Like most of the big sites, Ladbrokes is well served when it comes to online audio with news and previews during the morning, greyhound action through lunchtime and comprehensive horseracing coverage in the afternoon. Dog racing punters can also follow the competition from Crayford, Monmore, Sunderland and Walthamstow via live webcasts throughout the week.
As mentioned the company is looking to provide a complete service and the form on offer is fair enough and free but how useful it is for regular punters is something of a moot point. For occasional bettors looking to check a piece of form or a stat before placing a bet, however, it certainly serves its purpose.
Another factor which, depending on your betting strategy, might be of interest is the 'Total Betting Service' which allows customers to place bets on-line, over the phone and in shops using the same account. The benefits of this integrated account approach is that you can collect web winnings in cash from high street offices and easily track all your dealings, cash or otherwise, with the firm.
Free racing bets tend to be available on an ad hoc basis, for example first-time users that stake £20 on specified race will be in for a free £20 wager, stakes nonrefundable, on another event of their choice.
In summary, a well designed and managed site with an above average selection of betting opportunities.