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 as follows.

" There is nothing like a trip to your local Pub. A middle-ground for friends, a time to share memories, and enjoy a natter over a pint. 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, and featuring a range of wines, real ale, and food of the very highest quality. The Horse & Groom Pub is a relaxed, informal, and charming experience, with racing at its heart."

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

Away from the expensive hospitality, there are various options for where to watch the racing if you are attending. Outside of hospitality, there are three main areas: Best Mate Enclosure, Tattersalls Enclosure (known as Tatts), and Club Enclosure. The Jockey Club (https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/) summarizes the areas as:

Best Mate Enclosure

"Best Mate Enclosure offers an atmosphere like no other. Arguably with the best views of the racing directly opposite the main grandstand and adjacent to the finish line. Best Mate is a favourite spot for groups, offering the perfect setting for a day of unforgettable racing action and celebration.

Personally, this is the third best of the three options available, and this is reflected in the lower pricing due to the views you have of the course.

Tattersalls Enclosure (Tatts)

"Experience the excitement of the Cheltenham Festival from the Tattersalls Enclosure. 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)

"There's no better way to experience a day at the races, than the unrivalled Club Experience. Enjoy exclusive access to all premium public areas and breathtaking views from the main grandstand, Members' lawn, and the iconic winning post."

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

Guinness Grandstand

Somewhere between hospitality and a regular ticket is the Guiness Grandstand. You need to purchase either Tatts or Club alongside this option 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 I've been for the last three years, 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.

Happy racing!