Visiting Cheltenham Racecourse: A Racegoers Guide
Whether you’re visiting for a day at the races, a festival or to see your favourite band or comedian, Cheltenham Racecourse certainly makes for a memorable day trip during your Cotswolds trip.
As one of the most picturesque racecourses in the country and home to the world-famous Gold Cup, Cheltenham Racecourse attracts visitors from across the globe.
An Unforgettable Day Out Just 45 Minutes (25 Miles) Drive From The Beehive
After your day out at Cheltenham Racecourse, pay a visit to The Beehive near Carterton and see what award-winning Butcombe beers we have available, alongside our delicious, seasonal food menus.
The History Of Cheltenham Racecourse
Did you know that Cheltenham has a horse racing history dating back to 1815, when they hosted their first flat horse race?
However, the racecourse as we know it was constructed between the 1930s and 50s, and now plays host to hundreds of thousands of jump racing fans each year.
Find out more about the history of Cheltenham Racecourse (opens in a new window)
Enclosures At Cheltenham Racecourse
The three enclosures – Club, Tattersalls and Best Mate – each offer different views of the racecourse.
The Club Enclosure is the premium choice, offering spectacular views of the paddock, Hall of Fame, Princess Royal Stand and The Shopping Village.
Tattersalls Enclosure offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal in the Parade Ring with the runners and riders, while also providing a large number of food & drink options (more on that below!)
Best Mate Enclosure is positioned opposite the main Grandstand and, although it is the most affordable option, it offers arguably the finest atmosphere of all.
Food & Drink At Cheltenham Racecourse
There are a number of options at Cheltenham Racecourse to quench your thirst and stave off those hunger pangs.
The Club Enclosure offers the largest variety of food & drink options at Cheltenham Racecourse. Here you will find Mandarin Kitchen, Golden Miller Champagne Bar, Tommy Atkins Bar and the famous Garden Bar.
Centaur Bar, Winged Ox Bar and Terrace, See You Then Bar and many others can all be found within the Tattersalls Enclosure, while The Princess Royal Stand boasts Big Buck’s Champagne Bar, Vestey Bar and the Annual Member’s Bar.
Dress Code At Cheltenham Racecourse
Although Cheltenham Racecourse doesn’t have a set dress code, it is always a safe option to dress up rather than down.
As with most race meetings, a lot of elaborate outfits and hats will be seen in all areas, so how you dress depends entirely on how comfortable you feel.
The majority of gentlemen will wear suits, while ladies will most often be seen in their finest cocktail dress.
Guided Tours At Cheltenham Racecourse
Available on non-race days, a guided tour of Cheltenham Racecourse includes behind-the-scenes access to the racecourse, stables, executive boxes and grandstand.
Visitors will experience everything that Cheltenham Racecourse has to offer, with additional information provided by the official Racecourse Tour Guide.
If you wish to book a guided tour, please contact Cheltenham Racecourse (opens in a new window)
The Shopping Village At Cheltenham Racecourse
On each and every raceday at Cheltenham Racecourse, The Shopping Village comes to life.
Offering a diverse range of goods from independent sellers, there is always an opportunity to grab something rare.
With over 70 trade stands on offer, The Shopping Village should have something for everyone, regardless of their taste or budget.
Directions To The Beehive From Cheltenham Racecourse
The Beehive is a traditional pub in Carterton, serving delicious seasonal dishes and exciting takes on pub classics, as well as award-winning Butcombe craft beer and cask ale.
To reach The Beehive from Cheltenham Racecourse, you must head south east and exit the roundabout onto New Barn Lane. You will then encounter 5 roundabouts in quick succession:
At the first roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Albert Road
At the second roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Pittville Circus Road
At the third roundabout, take the 1st exit and stay on Pittville Circus Road
At the fourth roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto All Saints Road
At the fifth roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Hewlett Road
Turn left onto London Road (A435) and continue for 2 miles, before continuing onto the A40 for approximately 20 miles. At Burford Roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on the A40. Turn right onto Shilton Road (B4020) for 3 miles before continuing onto Burford Road and going through 1 roundabout. Continue onto Black Bourton Road, go through 1 roundabout and The Beehive will be on your right.
