The Cheltenham Festival is an annual four-day National Hunt horse racing event held in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. It is considered to be one of the most prestigious and important events in the British horse racing calendar. The Cheltenham Festival consists of 28 races, usually held over four days in March or early April. It is the most valuable jump racing meeting in Europe, with over £4.5 million in prize money available each year.
History of the Cheltenham Festival
The Cheltenham Festival was first held in 1860, when the first National Hunt meeting took place in Prestbury Park, near Cheltenham. It quickly became a popular event, with over 10,000 spectators attending by the late 19th century. Since then, the Cheltenham Festival has grown in size and stature, with hundreds of thousands of racing fans attending each year.
What is the 2023 Cheltenham Festival Date?
The 2023 Cheltenham Festival will take place from Tuesday, March 14th to Friday, March 17th. The event will run for four days, with six races being held each day.
Highlights of the 2023 Cheltenham Festival
The 2023 Cheltenham Festival is shaping up to be an unmissable event. Here are some of the highlights that are sure to draw crowds in their droves:
- The Cheltenham Gold Cup – the most prestigious race of the event, with a prize fund of over £625,000 up for grabs.
- The Champion Hurdle – the most valuable hurdle race in Europe, with a prize fund of over £400,000.
- The Queen Mother Champion Chase – the most important chase race of the Festival, with a prize fund of over £350,000.
- The Ryanair Chase – the richest chase race of the Festival, with a prize fund of over £300,000.
- The Supreme Novices’ Hurdle – the opening race of the Festival, with a prize fund of over £150,000.
Attractions at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival
As well as the thrilling horse racing action, the 2023 Cheltenham Festival will also feature a range of attractions and activities for spectators to enjoy. This includes a variety of live music performances, fairground rides, food and drink stalls, and shopping opportunities. There will also be an array of entertainment for children, including face painting, bouncy castles, and more.
Tickets for the 2023 Cheltenham Festival
Tickets for the 2023 Cheltenham Festival will go on sale in late 2022. Ticket prices will vary depending on the day and the enclosure you wish to access, with prices ranging from £30 for the Best Mate enclosure on Tuesday to £75 for the Tattersalls enclosure on Friday.
Accommodation for the 2023 Cheltenham Festival
If you’re looking to stay near the Cheltenham Festival, there is a wide range of accommodation options available. Hotels, B&Bs, self-catering apartments, and camping sites are all available close to the event. There are also a range of luxury experiences and packages available, including private boxes, hospitality suites, and champagne receptions.
How to get to the 2023 Cheltenham Festival
The Cheltenham Festival takes place in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. The nearest airport is Bristol Airport, which is located around 50 miles away. There are regular trains and buses running between Cheltenham and Bristol, as well as direct coach services to the Festival. Alternatively, you can drive to the event, with car parking available at the racecourse.
Event Safety at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival
The Cheltenham Festival is a safe and secure event, with strict safety measures in place to ensure the safety of all spectators. All attendees will be subject to security checks, and there will be a strong police presence throughout the event. All attendees are also encouraged to follow social distancing guidelines and wear face coverings where appropriate.
Conclusion
The 2023 Cheltenham Festival is sure to be an unmissable event, with thrilling horse racing, exciting attractions, and a range of luxury experiences. It will take place from Tuesday, March 14th to Friday, March 17th, with tickets going on sale in late 2022. If you’re looking for accommodation or transport to the event, there are plenty of options available. Whatever you decide to do, the 2023 Cheltenham Festival is sure to be an unforgettable experience.