Cheltenham Festival 2026: The Ultimate VIP Guide

The roar is coming. From Tuesday 10th to Friday 13th March 2026, the sporting world descends on Prestbury Park for the Cheltenham Festival. It is the pinnacle of jump racing, and for four days, Gloucestershire becomes the center of the universe.

But Cheltenham is a tale of two festivals. There is the cold, crowded chaos of the Guinness Village, and then there is the warmth, luxury, and unparalleled views of the VIP enclosures. This guide breaks down exactly how to do the Festival in style.

The 4 Days: Which One Should You Choose?

Each day has a distinct personality. Choosing the right one is key to your experience:

• Tuesday (Champion Day): For the purists. The Unibet Champion Hurdle is the feature. The atmosphere is electric as the first roar goes up.
• Wednesday (Style Wednesday): Formerly “Ladies Day.” High fashion, slow-motion finishes in the Queen Mother Champion Chase, and a sophisticated crowd.
• Thursday (St Patrick’s Thursday): The party day. The Guinness flows faster, and the Ryanair Chase delivers the drama.
• Friday (Gold Cup Day): The big one. The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup is the most prestigious race in the calendar. Tickets and hospitality sell out months in advance.

VIP Areas Explained: Where to Be Seen

1. Long Run Private Boxes (Best for Views)

Located on Levels 2 and 3 of the Long Run stand, these are widely considered the best value private facilities.

The View: Glass-fronted with a private balcony overlooking the final two fences and the finishing straight.

The Package: Four-course lunch, complimentary bar (beer, wine, spirits), and a dedicated host. Ideally suited for corporate groups of 12–40.

2. The Orchard (Best for Luxury)

Think of this as the “Paddock Club” of horse racing. Located in the Tented Village, The Orchard offers a sanctuary from the crowds.

The Vibe: Premium brand activations (think Bentley and Boodles), “Pod” seating, and exclusive bars. It is accessible to Club Enclosure ticket holders but requires a specific wristband for entry.

3. The Steam Train (Best for Arrival)

Forget the infamous Cheltenham traffic jams. The “ATR Express” steam train departs from Toddington Railway Station and takes a scenic 35-minute journey through the Cotswolds, dropping you directly at the back of the Grandstand (North Entrance).

Insider Tip: It includes a cash bar on board. Sip champagne as you steam past the queues of cars.

Why Book Hospitality?

It’s not just about the free drinks (though that helps). It’s about warmth and logistics. March weather is unpredictable. Having a private base with a roof, a seat, and no queue for the bathroom transforms the day from an endurance test into a luxury experience.

Ready to hear the roar? View our 2026 Hospitality Packages.