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Experience the thrill of one of the UK’s most prestigious horse racing events with this guide to the Cheltenham Festival…
With prize money second only to the Grand National, the Cheltenham Festival is one of the UK’s biggest horse racing events. Many of the best British and Irish-trained horses compete in 28 races across four action-packed days, culminating in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
This is a quick guide covering everything you need to know about the event – including a list of what each day entails. Enjoy…
What is the Cheltenham Festival?
The Cheltenham Festival is a premier horse racing event that takes place annually at Cheltenham Racecourse in Gloucestershire, England. It’s one of the most prestigious jump racing festivals in the world, attracting top horses, jockeys, trainers, and racing enthusiasts from both the UK and Ireland.
The festival spans four days in March, with each day featuring a series of highly competitive races, including the renowned Cheltenham Gold Cup. Known for its electric atmosphere and the famous “Cheltenham Roar” that kicks off the event, the festival offers a thrilling experience for all attendees.
When is the Cheltenham Festival 2025?
In 2025, the Cheltenham Festival will take place from Tuesday, March 11th to Friday, March 14th.
Where is It?
The event takes place at Cheltenham Racecourse in Prestbury Park, Cheltenham – a picturesque town in Gloucestershire. The festival is set against the backdrop of the Cotswold Hills, providing a picturesque setting for one of the most prestigious jump racing events in the world.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices for the Cheltenham Festival vary depending on the enclosure and the day you choose to attend. Here are the 2025 ticket prices for different enclosures:
- Club Enclosure: Starting from £100.80 (Gate Price: £122.00)
- Tattersalls Enclosure: Starting from £71.10 (Gate Price: £85.00)
- Best Mate Enclosure: Starting from £51.30 (Gate Price: £67.00)
- Racecourse View: Starting from £95.00
- Guinness Grandstand: Starting from £48.00
There are also discounted prices available for multi-day tickets and group bookings.
Brief History of the Cheltenham Festival
The Cheltenham Festival has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. Horse racing in Cheltenham began in 1815, but the festival itself was first held in 1860 at Market Harborough, where it was known as the Grand National Hunt Meeting. The event moved permanently to Cheltenham in 1911, taking place at the iconic Prestbury Park.
Over the years, the festival has grown in popularity and stature, becoming a cornerstone of the British racing calendar. Today, it is celebrated as one of the most significant horse racing events worldwide, drawing thousands of spectators and participants who come to witness the finest jump racing and revel in the festive atmosphere.
Festival Days
Day One: Champion Day
Day One is often considered the best of the four festival days, thanks to the most important hurdle race of the season, the Stan James Champion Hurdle, along with that unique first-day atmosphere of excitement and celebration.
A big part of the first day is the infamous “Cheltenham Roar”: the amount of noise from the crowds when the starter raises the tape for the first race. Day one features seven races in total, including the Grade 1 OLBG Mares’ Hurdle, which was once won for six consecutive years by the now-retired Quevega.
Day Two: Ladies Day
The fanciest day at Cheltenham Festival is the popular Ladies Day event on day two. There are seven races again, including the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase, but for many, the real highlight is the Ladies Day fashion and all those hats, feathers, and fasteners. Slip on your Sunday finest, find the biggest hat your head can support, and head to the track to enjoy the classiest race day possible.
Day Three: St. Patrick’s Thursday
Seven races, including the charity race The St Patrick Derby (which this year is raising money for the Injured Jockeys Fund), make up the third day of the festival, which comes complete with plenty of St Paddy’s Day festivities. With on average 10,000 Irish fans traveling to Prestbury Park every year for the festival, it’s no surprise that St Patrick’s Day has become a huge part of the event. Expect lots of Irish entertainment and a fantastic atmosphere.
Day Four: Gold Cup Day
The fourth and final day of the festival includes six incredible final races, and the all-important Cheltenham Gold Cup. There’s always an amazing atmosphere and plenty of noise from the crowd during the all-important Gold Cup race, so don’t miss it!
The Biggest Races
The Cheltenham Festival features several key races that are highly anticipated by racing enthusiasts. Here are some of the most important races:
- Champion Hurdle: Held on the first day, Champion Day, this is the most prestigious hurdle race of the festival. It attracts the best hurdlers and is a highlight of the opening day.
- Queen Mother Champion Chase: This race takes place on the second day, Ladies Day. It is the premier two-mile steeplechase and showcases the fastest chasers.
- Ryanair Chase: Also known as the Festival Trophy, this race is held on the third day, St Patrick’s Thursday. It is a key race for middle-distance chasers.
- Stayers’ Hurdle: Another major race on the third day, this is the top long-distance hurdle race of the festival.
- Cheltenham Gold Cup: The most prestigious race of the entire festival, held on the fourth day, Gold Cup Day. It is the ultimate test for steeplechasers and is considered the pinnacle of jump racing.
Tips for Attending the Cheltenham Festival
- Plan Ahead: Book your tickets and accommodation early, as the festival is extremely popular and can sell out quickly. Consider staying in nearby towns if Cheltenham is fully booked.
- Dress Code: While there isn’t a strict dress code, it’s recommended to dress smartly, especially on Ladies Day. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet a lot. More on this in the next section.
- Getting There: Cheltenham is well-connected by train and road. If you’re driving, be sure to check parking options in advance. Shuttle buses are available from Cheltenham Spa station to the racecourse.
- Arrive Early: Arriving early allows you to soak in the atmosphere, explore the racecourse, and secure a good spot to watch the races.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: There are plenty of food and drink options at the racecourse, from fine dining to casual eateries. Keep hydrated and enjoy the variety of food available.
- Bet Responsibly: If you’re planning to place bets, set a budget and stick to it. Enjoy the excitement of betting, but always gamble responsibly.
- Explore the Area: Cheltenham and the surrounding Cotswolds offer beautiful landscapes and charming villages. Consider extending your stay to explore the local attractions.
- Join the Celebrations: Embrace the festive atmosphere by joining in with the traditional Cheltenham Roar and other celebrations throughout the festival.
Dress Code
While there isn’t a strict dress code for the Cheltenham Festival, it’s recommended to dress smartly. Here are some guidelines to consider:
- Smart Casual: A general rule of thumb is to opt for smart casual attire. This means tailored jackets, smart trousers, dresses, and skirts.
- Ladies Day: On Ladies Day, many attendees choose to dress up in their finest outfits, often with elaborate hats or fascinators. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your best fashion.
- Weather Appropriate: Since the festival takes place in March, it’s wise to dress in layers and be prepared for various weather conditions. Waterproof jackets, hats, and comfortable shoes are essential. Read more in my Spring Packing Guide for England.
- Hospitality Areas: Some hospitality areas, such as the Club Enclosure, may have a more formal dress code. Men might be required to wear a suit or jacket and tie, and ladies are encouraged to wear dresses or smart separates.
- Comfortable Footwear: Given the amount of walking and standing, comfortable shoes are highly recommended. High heels might not be the best choice for navigating the racecourse.
Ultimately, while there are no strict dress codes, dressing smartly and comfortably will help you enjoy the festival to the fullest. If you have any more questions or need further details, feel free to ask!
FAQs About the Cheltenham Festival
Q: What should I bring to the festival? A: Essentials include comfortable shoes, a weather-appropriate outfit, a hat for Ladies Day, cash or a card for betting and food, and a portable phone charger.
Q: Is there an age limit for attending the festival? A: The festival is open to all ages, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Certain areas, such as betting rings, are restricted to those 18 and over.
Q: Are there accessibility options? A: Yes, Cheltenham Racecourse offers facilities for disabled visitors, including accessible viewing areas, toilets, and parking. Contact the racecourse in advance for assistance.
Final Thoughts and Read More
The Cheltenham Festival is a celebration of the best in jump racing, with thrilling races, vibrant atmospheres, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a first-time visitor, the festival offers something for everyone.
Read more about the local area in the following posts:
How to Spend a Weekend in Cheltenham and Gloucester
Ready to experience the Cheltenham Festival? Share your favorite moments in the comments below!
