Since its inception in 1860, the Cheltenham Festival has become one of the most beloved horse racing events worldwide.
Known for the electrifying “Cheltenham roar” that erupts for the opening race, the festival is a spectacle of excitement and tradition. As one of the most prestigious National Hunt racing events, it attracts top jockeys, trainers, and horses from all over the globe, making it a can’t-miss event for racing bettors and casual racegoers alike.
While it remains a major highlight of the racing calendar, it’s also important to consider ongoing concerns about animal welfare.
Let’s delve into the details of the Cheltenham Festival, from its dates and viewing options to the top moments and the betting scene.
Article Contents
Cheltenham Festival Dates
Cheltenham Festival takes place in March of every year and lasts for four days. The itinerary and the dates are scheduled at least a year before the festival begins.
The 2025 Cheltenham Festival will be held from March 11 to March 14, featuring races like the Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase, and the Gold Cup.
Mark your calendar—these dates are not to be missed!
Cheltenham Festival: Sold Out?
It always is! What makes this event extra special is its close proximity to Saint Patrick’s Day, a celebration enjoyed by the English and, especially, the Irish. The festival’s timing turns Cheltenham into a sea of green, as thousands of Irish visitors flood the town each March.
The grandstands, hospitality areas, and bars are packed with excited spectators, transforming the racecourse into a lively carnival of racing fans, party-goers, and punters. So, if you’re thinking about attending Cheltenham, early ticket booking is essential because it sells out fast.
Best Places to Watch the Action
The Cheltenham Festival offers a variety of viewing experiences, catering to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for the excitement of the Courtyard facilities or the exclusivity of a private course-facing box, the racecourse offers an array of hospitality options and enclosures.
For the ultimate viewing experience, the Club Enclosure is widely regarded as the best option. It offers clear views of the Princess Royal Stand, the paddock, the Hall of Fame, and the Shopping Village, and places you at the heart of the festival.
Here are other key places to watch the action at Cheltenham:
Pegasus Lounge
A newer addition to Cheltenham’s hospitality offerings, the Pegasus Lounge offers a prime view near the finishing line. The 2025 balcony boxes are already available and come with premium amenities, including food and beverages. With its elevated position and luxury setting, it’s a great choice for those seeking comfort and great race views.
Grandstand
The Grandstand is perfect for those wanting a complete view of the course. From this elevated spot, you can see both the start and finish of each race, allowing you to follow the action across the entire track. It’s ideal for race enthusiasts who want a panoramic perspective.
Paddock Area
For horse lovers, the Paddock Area provides an intimate, up-close experience. Watch horses being saddled and jockeys preparing for the race, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the pre-race rituals. It’s perfect for those wanting to feel closely connected to the horses and the action.
Best Mate Enclosure
Located across from the grandstand, the Best Mate Enclosure offers a great view of the finishing straight and the last fences. Known for its lively and social vibe, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a fun, relaxed festival experience in a vibrant setting.
Guinness Grandstand
With excellent views and easy access to bars and restaurants, the Guinness Grandstand is a fantastic choice. Overlooking the racecourse, it combines great amenities with a lively atmosphere. This grandstand is in high demand, so book early to secure your spot.
Beverages and Snacks on Site
The administration at Cheltenham requests that visitors do not bring outside food or beverages into any enclosure at the racetrack. It’s best not even to try since there will be bag searches at the entrance.
Cheltenham Racecourse upholds a strict policy to prevent underage drinking, and there is a limit to how much alcohol each guest can purchase at a time—a maximum of four drinks per person—to help manage responsible consumption. In addition to alcohol policies, complimentary water is available at every bar, ensuring that festival-goers can stay hydrated throughout the day, especially with all the excitement that comes with the racing action.
Whether you’re looking for a pint of beer, a glass of wine, or just some water to cool down, Cheltenham has you covered with a range of options designed to enhance the festival experience.
Betting at the Cheltenham Festival
The Cheltenham Festival is a major event for bettors, with millions at staked throughout the week. Bookmakers, both online and at the racecourse, offer a range of betting options from traditional win, place and each way bets to more complex accumulators.
It’s important to compare odds across different bookmakers to get the best value. Traditional on-track bookies provide the convenience and experience of betting right at the event, while online options offer additional promotions and enhanced odds. Always choose a reputable bookmaker with a valid license to ensure a safe betting experience. For instance, if your region permits it, 1xBet horse racing odds are very competitive.
Top Cheltenham Festival Moments
There have been a lot of incredible moments that are embedded in the history of the Cheltenham festival. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic achievements:
Arkle’s Dominance
From 1964 to 1966, Arkle made history by winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup three times in a row. Under jockey Pat Taaffe and trainer Tom Dreaper, Arkle’s unmatched speed and stamina earned him the highest Timeform rating ever for a steeplechaser
Dawn Run’s Triumph
In 1986, Dawn Run became the only horse to win both the Champion Hurdle and Cheltenham Gold Cup. Trained by Paddy Mullins and ridden by Jonjo O’Neill, her dramatic come-from-behind Gold Cup win is one of the festival’s most iconic moments.
Istabraq’s Hat-Trick
From 1998 to 2000, Istabraq dominated the Champion Hurdle, winning three consecutive titles. Trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Charlie Swan, Istabraq’s consistency and brilliance solidified his place as one of Cheltenham’s all-time greats.
Animal Welfare at the Cheltenham Festival
Animal welfare is a critical issue in horse racing, including at the Cheltenham Festival. As one of the biggest events in National Hunt racing, Cheltenham attracts a lot of attention and scrutiny regarding the treatment of horses.
Issues such as injuries and fatalities during or after races have raised alarms among animal rights activists and the general public. The festival organisers and racing authorities try to address these concerns by implementing a range of welfare measures which aim to balance the excitement of the event with the highest standards of care and safety for the animals involved.
However, despite these efforts, challenges remain. Ensuring the ongoing health and safety of racehorses requires continuous improvement.
Conclusion
The charming town of Cheltenham has firmly established itself as a central hub for the excitement of the Cheltenham Festival. As a highlight of the horse racing calendar, it continues to capture the hearts of racing fans from around the globe. As we look ahead to the 2025 edition, there’s still time to be part of this iconic celebration of sport, culture, and excitement. Don’t miss your chance!
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