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   | Cheltenham Visitors GuideFestival RacingTwo main courses are used for racing, with a third cross country course located within the other two. All three courses will be used during the festival, with the first two days action taking place on the old course and days three and four on the new course. One circuit of the track is around a mile and a half long, with undulating conditions prevalent for most of this left-handed trip. The final few furlongs are all uphill, ensuring a keen critique of jumping and stamina; the ultimate test for the modern thoroughbred. LocationThe racecourse is situated about a mile outside Cheltenham town centre, located at Prestbury Park, at the base of Cleeve Hill; the highest point in the Cotswolds. The geographical structure provides a natural amphitheatre in which the whole course is viewable from the grandstands. TicketsThe four days of the festival are all-ticket, so you will not be allowed entry without having bought in advance. In 2007, Gold Cup day had sold out several days prior to the start, yet tickets for all enclosures on the other days were still available on the eve of racing. Numerous touts operate close to the course, yet tickets are never less than face value and it is best to book your spot early to avoid disappointment and let the anticipation build.
Best Mate EnclosureThe Best Mate enclosure is the cheapest option to watch the racing, at a cost of £20 for the first three days of the festival and £30 for Gold Cup day. It is located directly opposite the main grandstand on the other side of the home straight. Tattersalls EnclosureThe Tattersalls enclosure is the most popular option, offering access to the main grandstand, paddock and unsaddling enclosure, Hall of Fame, Guinness Village and The Centaur, with plenty of food and drink options. A ticket for the first three days will cost you £35, rising to £50 for Gold Cup day. Club EnclosureClub is the most exclusive enclosure, giving premium views of the racecourse action and all-access to the racecourse facilities. Cost for entry is £65 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and £80 on Friday. To buy your tickets go to the official Cheltenham secure online ticketing area or phone: 01242 226 226 TravelBy CarThe racecourse is around five miles off the M5, with suitable exits at junctions 9, 10 and 11. During festival week extra signposts are erected. By RailThe nearest station is Cheltenham Spa, located around two miles from the racecourse. A bus service offers transportation to and from the course on racedays, although the walk can be made in around 40 minutes. By AirAround an hour’s drive from Bristol, Birmingham and Cardiff airports, and 2 hours from London. |