When Do Cheltenham Races Start and How Can I Get Tickets?

If you're thinking of going to Cheltenham in 2025, you're not alone. Every year, around 250,000 people descend on Cheltenham Racecourse for one of the most anticipated events in the British sporting calendar. But the Cheltenham Festival isn't just about racing. It's about planning your day right, knowing what to expect and making sure your ticket gets you exactly where you want to be. 

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What Is the Cheltenham Festival?

The Cheltenham Festival is the biggest jump racing event in the UK. It takes place over four days in March and features 28 races, including the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup. Some of the best horses and jockeys from Britain, Ireland and beyond take part and for fans of National Hunt racing, it's the highlight of the year.

But even if you're not a racing expert, the Cheltenham Festival is still a day out worth experiencing. The energy is unmatched, the views over the course and the Cotswolds are stunning and the sense of occasion is something you feel the moment you step through the gates.

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Cheltenham Festival 2025 Dates

The 2025 Cheltenham Festival runs from Tuesday 11 March to Friday 14 March.

Here’s a quick look at what each day brings:

• Tuesday – Champion Day (11 March)

Features the Champion Hurdle, plus the Festival opener: the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. A strong day for racing fans who like speed, precision and drama from the first flag.

• Wednesday – Ladies Day (12 March)

Known for sharp outfits and fast horses. The headline event is the Queen Mother Champion Chase — a two-mile sprint that tests skill and control.

• Thursday – St Patrick’s Thursday (13 March)

Celebrates the strong Irish presence in jump racing. The Stayers' Hurdle is the one to watch here three miles of stamina, tactics and grit.

• Friday – Gold Cup Day (14 March)

The main event. The Cheltenham Gold Cup is one of the biggest races in the world. It's the day the grandstands are at full capacity and the tension is at its highest. Each day has seven races, with the first usually starting at 1:30pm and the last finishing around 5:30pm.

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Ticket Options: What You’re Really Paying For

Tickets are available from The Jockey Club, with prices depending on the enclosure and the day. Here’s what’s on offer:

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Club Enclosure

The premium experience. Access to the best viewing spots, top bars, restaurants and facilities. It’s also where hospitality packages are based.

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Tattersalls Enclosure

A popular middle-ground. You’ll be close to the paddock and winners’ enclosure, with decent access to food, drinks and betting.

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Best Mate Enclosure

On the opposite side of the track to the grandstand. It’s cheaper, more relaxed but further from the main facilities. Good for a casual day out if you’re not too fussed about being near the action. Prices start from around £45, rising to over £100 for the top enclosures on Gold Cup Day. If you’re looking at hospitality, expect to pay several hundred pounds per person—though you’ll be getting seated dining, private bars and top-class views.

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Where to Get Tickets

The best place to buy is via the official Cheltenham Festival page on The Jockey Club website. Avoid third-party resellers unless they're known providers or hospitality agents. For groups, clients or special occasions, companies like Core Events offer tailored packages that include ticketing, catering, lounge access and all the logistics handled. It’s a good option if you want to make the day effortless.

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What to Wear (and What Not to Stress About)

There’s no formal dress code but Cheltenham is a smart event. That said, you’ll see a wide mix of tweed coats, scarves, hats, smart boots. On Ladies Day, many dress up but it's more classic countryside chic than high fashion. The real rule is: dress for the weather. March in Gloucestershire can mean sunshine, showers or mud sometimes all on the same day.

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Getting There and Where to Stay

Cheltenham Racecourse is well connected by road and rail. Here's how most people get in:

• By train: The nearest station is Cheltenham Spa. From there, shuttle buses run regularly to the racecourse.
  
• By car: Parking is available but must be booked in advance.
  
• By coach: Several operators run direct services from major UK cities.
  

Accommodation is in high demand during Festival week. Local hotels, B&Bs and Airbnbs often book out a year in advance. If you're coming from further afield, consider staying in Gloucester, Tewkesbury or even further afield with good rail links.

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Should You Book Now?

In a word: yes. Gold Cup Day sells out quickly but all days are busy especially for Tattersalls and Club. The earlier you book, the better your choice of enclosures and pricing.

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What Time Should You Arrive?

• Gates open around 10:30am
  
• First race at 1:30pm
  
• Last race at 5:30pm
  

If you're aiming for a stress-free day, get there early. You'll beat the queues, have time to walk the course, get food and drinks sorted and enjoy the build-up without rushing.

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What Else Happens on Race Day?

There’s more to Cheltenham than racing. Depending on your ticket, you can enjoy:

• Live music from bands and solo acts
  
• Bars and champagne tents
  
• Food stalls offering everything from gourmet pies to afternoon tea
  
• Paddock access, where you can see the horses before each race
  

If you're in hospitality or Club Enclosure, expect live commentary, private terraces and a more relaxed pace between races.

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Betting: What to Know Before You Go

You can place bets:

• With on-course bookmakers
  
• At Tote kiosks
  
• Online, via apps like Bet365, Paddy Power, SkyBet
  

If you're new to it, start small. The thrill of the race is real whether you’ve got £5 or £50 on the line.

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Can You Just Go for One Day?

Absolutely. Some racegoers only ever attend Gold Cup Day. Others swear by Ladies Day for the social buzz. If it’s your first time and you’re unsure, pick a mid-week day like Wednesday or Thursday — they’re slightly less crowded but still deliver world-class racing.

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Final Thought: Cheltenham Is What You Make It

You don’t need to know the odds or own a tweed jacket to enjoy Cheltenham. What matters is turning up prepared knowing the race times, your enclosure and how to make the most of the day. Whether you're going for the racing, the food, the people-watching or the atmosphere, the Cheltenham Festival 2025 will deliver. Just don’t leave the ticket buying until the last minute.

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Want a Hassle-Free Cheltenham Experience?

If you’re planning a trip to the Cheltenham Races and want it sorted from start to finish, Core Events offers official hospitality packages and tailored group experiences. Skip the stress, book your tickets, food, travel and viewing all in one go.

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