Each-Way Betting Explained
What is an each-way bet? Read our simple each-way betting guide to learn how most punters use the bet type.
How Each-Way Betting Works
Each-way betting is a betting type in which you place two bets on the same horse: one bet for the horse to win, and one for the horse to place. This means you can win a return on your bet if your horse wins, but also if it just places in the race.
Each-way bets are often used for horse and greyhound racing, acting as a form of insurance if the horse finishes in the top four (depending on how many horses are in the race), but fails to win. Even though most bettors are after glory, this type of bet is a nice way to cover the bases when watching the top horse racing events.
The place bet pays out depending on the number of horses in the race, and below you can find the general guideline for a place payout:
| 2-4 horses | First place only |
|---|---|
| 5-7 horses | Top two finish |
| 8-15 horses | Top three finish |
| 16+ horses | Top four finish |
The above aside, the best horse racing betting sites can offer much better place terms and also boost the number of places with special racing offers for big events such as Cheltenham, Grand National, and more.
How to Place an Each-Way Bet
To place an each-way bet, make sure you tick the "E/W" box in your bet slip. And remember, you are placing two bets, so your stake will double. For example, if you place a £10 each way bet, you are placing £10 on the win and £10 on the place for a total of £20.
The win part of the each-way bet is calculated at the odds you take on the horse of your choice. But, the place bet usually pays 1/5 of the odds if your horse places.
Usually, you will need the horse to be priced at 4/1 or higher for your each-way bet to pay out more than your stake if your horse only places. We recommend using this free each-way betting calculator, to calculate your each-way bet returns.
Steven is an experienced iGaming content writer who has been working in the industry since 2018. He is passionate about sports betting and enjoys writing about all aspects of the industry, including bookmaker reviews, betting tips and strategies, and news and analysis. If you have any questions about online gambling in the UK, please don't hesitate to contact him.