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What Is EW Betting? Each Way in Horse Racing Defined

EW betting is a common term in horse racing, but for beginners, it can seem a little confusing since it operates differently from a standard win bet.

This blog post explains what EW betting is, how it works, and what the term “EW” actually means. Key elements are explored step by step, including the components of an EW bet, how place terms influence potential returns, and situations where part of a bet may pay out even if the horse does not finish first. Practical examples, odds, and comparisons with win-only bets are also provided to help clarify the concept.

Read on to gain a clear understanding of EW betting and how it can be applied.

What Does EW Mean in Horse Racing?

In horse racing, “EW” stands for “each way”. At a glance, it is an alternative to betting on a horse just to win.

An each way bet is composed of two parts. One part relates to the horse winning the race, while the other is linked to the horse finishing in one of the places specified by the bookmaker. These places might include second, third, or occasionally further down the field.

Even at this stage, it is useful to know that an each way bet may offer a return in more than one scenario, which might be appealing when backing horses at longer odds or in competitive fields.

How Does an Each Way Bet Work?

Each way betting splits a stake into two equal parts, both backing the same horse. One part is for the horse to win; the other part is for it to finish in a recognised place.

If the horse wins, both parts may return a payout. If it finishes in a qualifying place but does not win, only the part linked to placing may pay out. The exact positions that count are shown before confirming a bet.

At this stage, it might seem similar to a normal bet, but understanding how the place element functions may make the difference.

What Are the Two Parts of an Each Way Bet?

An each-way bet consists of two separate components: the win part and the place part.

The win part: This is a bet on the horse to finish first. If the horse wins, the win portion of the bet is paid out at the full odds.

The place part: This covers the horse finishing in one of the positions specified by the bookmaker. The number of places and the fraction of the odds used for settlement are determined in advance of the race.

How Are Place Terms Calculated in EW Betting?

Place terms determine which positions count for the place element and what fraction of the full odds is used.

The number of places depends on the race type and the number of runners. Typical base terms in UK racing are:

  • 1–4 runners: win only
  • 5–7 runners: 1/4 odds, places 1–2
  • 8+ runners, non-handicap: 1/5 odds, places 1–3
  • Handicaps 12–15 runners: 1/4 odds, places 1–3
  • Handicaps 16+ runners: 1/4 odds, places 1–4

Major events or bookmaker promotions may offer extra places, usually at 1/5 odds. The race card or betting market will show the exact terms.

The fraction of the odds is important because it affects the payout for the place part. A higher fraction might lead to a larger return relative to the win odds.

Can You Win an Each Way Bet If Your Horse Loses?

It is possible for the place part to return a potential payout even if the horse does not win.

If the horse finishes within the bookmaker’s designated places, the place element may pay out. Otherwise, both parts of the bet would not return anything.

This illustrates one of the unique aspects of each way betting: it allows for some potential return in scenarios beyond a win. For instance, a horse at longer odds might finish second and still result in a notable payout.

How Much Does an Each Way Bet Cost Compared to a Win Bet?

Because an each way bet splits the stake into two parts, the total outlay is double a straight win bet.

For example:

  • £5 win bet = £5 stake
  • £5 each way bet = £10 total (£5 win + £5 place)

Checking the total stake before placing a bet is important, as the extra part may influence the overall decision. The potential return from the place element is usually the main consideration.

Examples of Each Way Bets

Here’s an example:

If a horse is 10/1 and a £2 each way stake is placed with place terms of 1/5 for three places, the total stake is £4:

  • If the horse wins: The win part returns £22 (£2 stake + £20 winnings), and the place part returns £6 (£2 stake + £4 winnings). Total return = £28.
  • If the horse finishes second or third: Only the place part returns (£6). The £2 win stake is lost.
  • Outside the places: Both parts lose.

Bookmakers’ place terms define the fraction and the positions, which are shown with the market.

This example shows how the place element allows a chance of return even if the horse does not win, highlighting why place terms are important to understand potential outcomes.

Understanding the Odds for Each Way Betting

Each way bets consist of two parts: the win part, which pays out at the full odds if successful, and the place part, which pays typically out at a fraction of the odds if successful, usually 1/4 or 1/5.

For example, using a 10/1 win with 1/5 place terms:

  • Place odds: 2/1, so a £2 stake would return £6.
  • Win odds: 10/1, so the same £2 stake would return £22.

It is important to check both the number of places and the fraction applied when estimating potential returns. Larger fields often increase the value of each way bets, while smaller fields may reduce the chance of a return.

Each way betting is a common feature of horse racing markets in the UK and Ireland. Although slightly more complex than a straightforward win bet, it allows punters to consider additional scenarios in which a horse might perform well.

By understanding the two components of the bet—win and place—along with place terms, odds fractions, and total stakes, you can make more informed selections.

Always approach betting with responsible gambling practices. Never stake more than you are willing to lose, set personal limits that suit your circumstances, take regular breaks, and treat betting as an occasional form of entertainment rather than a dominant activity.

If gambling begins to affect your well-being or finances, seek support promptly. Independent organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware offer free, confidential help for anyone who needs it.

Bet On Horse Racing at Mr Luck

If you’re curious about horse racing, we at Mr Luck provide a clear and easy-to-navigate platform with a variety of markets, including win, each way, and forecast bets.

You can follow major events such as the Grand National and the Epsom Derby, with options that let you back a horse to win, place, or predict the top finishers in order. Our goal is to make it simple for you to explore the different ways to engage with the sport.

We also offer features to help you manage your activity, including deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion. If you ever feel the need for extra support, independent organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware are available to provide free guidance.

If this sounds right for you, feel free to create an account at Mr Luck, deposit some funds and explore the latest markets.

**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.