Where to watch at the Festival

If you are considering attending the festival for the first time and don't know what is best, this is a short guide on the options and recommendations from personal experience.

Hospitality is not cheap at the festival with some options around a thousand pounds a day and whilst I'm sure it's an amazing experience it's not for everyone. Incidentally, I have considered the Horse & Groom, which The Jockey Club describe this as, "The Horse & Groom Pub provides all the comforts of your local recreated at The Home of Jump racing. Located overlooking the final two fences of the course..."

Whilst it does look great, prices aside, it's a real stretch to say it overlooks the final two fences as it's a good two furlongs from the line.

Away from the expensive hospitality, there are various options for where to watch the racing if you are attending. There are three main areas: Best Mate Enclosure, Tattersalls Enclosure (known as Tatts), and Club Enclosure.

Best Mate Enclosure

Personally, I'd rank this third of the three main enclosure options, largely because of the views you have of the course. It is priced accordingly to be fair.

Tattersalls Enclosure (Tatts)

The Jockey Club state, "Located in the heart of the racecourse, this vibrant enclosure offers a great view of the thrilling races, along with access to the Parade Ring and the iconic Guinness Village."

Tatts is a great middle ground option though can be very busy when racing is on. This is great for the buzz of being in the heart of the action.

Club Enclosure (Club)

" Enjoy exclusive access to all premium public areas and breathtaking views from the main grandstand, Members' lawn, and the iconic winning post.", state the Jockey Club.

Club is more expensive though does give you freedom to access other areas and is my recommendation for a better overall experience.

Pulse Recommendation:

Guinness Grandstand

Somewhere between hospitality and a regular ticket is the Guinness Grandstand. You need to purchase either Tatts or Club alongside a ticket for the Grandstand, but it's an option I would highly recommend. The Jockey Club don't do this excellent facility justice with a description as much about the Guinness Village as the stand itself.

"The Guinness Village extends the Tattersalls Enclosure with extra viewing steps, bars, bands & other entertainment. Situated opposite the last fence giving an excellent view of the races."

Now, I don't want to cause a stampede for tickets, but this is where you will "find the Pulse!" I've been here for the last three years, not permanently, just for the festival, and it's simply outstanding value. Fortunately, I have front row seats, the same ones for the past two years, and booked again for 2027. Directly across from the final fence and close to the last hurdle (they moved it around last year) with a large screen, it's a perfect spot to watch the racing.

Final Thoughts

For racing enthusiasts, the Cheltenham Festival is the highlight of the National Hunt calendar. As it's over a four-day period, only the dedicated will be there for the duration, but it's still a great event to attend for a day. In which case, I recommend the Tuesday, which has great racing and atmosphere.

There are no bad places to be when the racing gets underway, though the views from high on the main grandstands will be difficult to beat. As budget is a consideration for most, the Guinness Grandstand provides a great alternative with easy bar and toilet access, plus a true last fence viewing point.

Whatever you decide to do, enjoy the finest four days on the National Hunt calendar at the home of jumps racing in the UK.

If you do have a bet, please gamble responsibly https://www.gambleaware.org/

Happy racing!