Cheltenham Festival 2026
The Greatest Show on Turf Returns
Experience the pinnacle of jump racing at Cheltenham Festival 2026. Four extraordinary days where champions are crowned, dreams are realized, and the legendary "Cheltenham Roar" echoes across the Cotswolds.
The Four Days of Glory
Champion Day
Tuesday, 10 MarchThe festival kicks off with the famous "Cheltenham Roar" as the first race begins. It's a day of pure, unadulterated racing excitement, headlined by the prestigious Unibet Champion Hurdle.
Ladies Day
Wednesday, 11 MarchGlamour and fashion take centre stage, with prizes for best dressed and a vibrant social scene. On the track, speed is king with the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase as the feature race.
St Patrick's Thursday
Thursday, 12 MarchIrish fans create an unbeatable party atmosphere with live music and themed entertainment, all while celebrating two major championship races: the Ryanair Chase and the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle.
Gold Cup Day
Friday, 13 MarchThe pinnacle of the jump racing calendar. The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup is the most prestigious prize, creating legends of the sport in a race that captivates the nation.
Daily Racing Schedule
Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere
The legendary Cheltenham Roar begins
Seven thrilling races daily
Secure Your Place at History
Choose from various enclosures to suit your style and budget. Early booking essential for the best prices and availability.
Best Mate Enclosure
- Access to parade ring
- Multiple bars & facilities
- Big screen viewing
Tattersalls Enclosure
- Premium trackside viewing
- Exclusive bars & restaurants
- Winners' enclosure access
Club Enclosure
- Finest viewing positions
- Champagne bars
- Luxury dining options
Elevate Your Experience
Indulge in world-class hospitality with panoramic views, gourmet dining, and exclusive access to make your Cheltenham Festival 2026 truly unforgettable.
Explore VIP PackagesEssential Festival Information
Getting There
Free shuttle buses from Cheltenham Spa station. Ample parking available with pre-booking.
What to Wear
Smart casual recommended. Ladies Day sees spectacular fashion. Dress warmly for March weather.
Top Tips
Book early, arrive early, and pace yourself. Download the official app for live updates.
"The atmosphere at Cheltenham is electric. When that roar goes up for the first race, there's nothing like it in sport. It's pure magic."
Sir Anthony McCoy, 20-time Champion Jockey
Don't Miss Cheltenham Festival 2026
Join 260,000 racing fans for four unforgettable days of world-class sport, fashion, and entertainment at the home of jump racing.
Cheltenham Festival 2026 FAQs
The Cheltenham Festival 2026 takes place from Tuesday, 10 March to Friday, 13 March 2026, featuring four days of world-class jump racing at Cheltenham Racecourse.
There are 28 races in total, with seven races scheduled each day across the four days of the festival.
Champion Day (Tuesday): Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, Champion Hurdle
Ladies Day (Wednesday): Queen Mother Champion Chase, Cross Country Chase
St Patrick’s Thursday: Stayers’ Hurdle, Ryanair Chase
Gold Cup Day (Friday): Cheltenham Gold Cup, Triumph Hurdle
Gates typically open at 10:30am. The first race starts at 1:20pm each day, with races every 40 minutes. The last race is at 5:20pm.
There is no official dress code, but smart attire is encouraged, especially in the Club and Tattersalls enclosures. On Ladies Day, many attendees dress to impress, with hats and stylish outfits popular. Jeans are not permitted in certain areas, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
Tickets for all four days and all enclosures (Best Mate, Tattersalls, Club) are available to buy online. Booking in advance is strongly advised, as some enclosures are likely to sell out.
The racecourse operates primarily on a cashless basis for concessions. However, cash is accepted by all on-course bookmakers for betting.
