Cheltenham Festival is one of the most anticipated weeks in the horse racing calendar. Each March, millions of viewers tune in while thousands gather at Cheltenham Racecourse to watch the very best jockeys, trainers and thoroughbreds compete across four unforgettable days.
While the Festival dominates search interest and headlines during this week, it also marks the perfect moment to look ahead at the rest of the British racing season. From historic Classics to prestigious summer festivals, there are plenty of major meetings still to come – many of which can be experienced with premium hospitality.
Explore horse racing VIP and hospitality packagesWhy Cheltenham Festival captures the racing world
Cheltenham Festival represents the pinnacle of National Hunt racing. The four-day meeting attracts the sport’s elite competitors and features some of the most famous races in the world.
Highlights include:
- The Champion Hurdle – the feature race on Tuesday
- The Queen Mother Champion Chase – Wednesday’s showpiece
- The Stayers’ Hurdle – a test of stamina on Thursday
- The Cheltenham Gold Cup – the most prestigious jump race in Britain
With crowds exceeding 250,000 across the week and television audiences in the millions, Cheltenham introduces many fans to the thrill of live horse racing. Once the Festival ends, attention quickly turns to the rest of the season’s major meetings.
The biggest horse racing events after Cheltenham
Boodles May Festival – Chester Racecourse
The Boodles May Festival at Chester Racecourse traditionally marks one of the first major highlights of the Flat racing season.
Held over three days in early May, the festival combines competitive racing with one of the most distinctive racecourses in Britain. Chester’s tight, circular track sits close to the historic city walls, creating an intimate setting where spectators are close to the action.
The meeting features several important trials ahead of the summer Classics, making it an ideal opportunity to see emerging stars of the Flat season.
Explore hospitality for the Boodles May Festival at Chester RacecourseGlorious Goodwood – Goodwood Racecourse
Set against the rolling Sussex countryside, Glorious Goodwood is one of the most picturesque meetings in the racing calendar.
Held across five days in late July and early August, the festival features several Group races including the Sussex Stakes – one of the most prestigious mile races in Europe.
The combination of high-quality racing and a relaxed summer setting makes Goodwood a favourite among racing enthusiasts.
Register your interest in Goodwood hospitality experiencesBetfred St Leger Festival – Doncaster Racecourse
The Betfred St Leger Festival at Doncaster Racecourse is one of the most important meetings of the British Flat season.
The four-day festival culminates with the St Leger Stakes, the oldest Classic race in the world, first run in 1776. The race forms the final leg of the British Triple Crown and remains one of the most prestigious contests for three-year-old thoroughbreds.
Alongside the St Leger itself, the festival features several high-quality races, attracting leading jockeys and trainers from across the sport.
Secure hospitality experiences for the Betfred St Leger Festival at DoncasterLadies Day race events across the UK
Many racecourses host Ladies Day events throughout the season, combining competitive racing with fashion competitions, entertainment and a celebratory atmosphere.
These race days are among the most popular fixtures in the calendar, attracting large crowds and offering a social occasion alongside the racing itself.
From spring meetings through to autumn festivals, Ladies Day events take place at several major courses, giving racegoers the chance to enjoy the occasion in style.
Explore Ladies Day hospitality experiencesRoyal Ascot – Ascot Racecourse
Few sporting events combine world-class racing and British tradition quite like Royal Ascot.
Taking place across five days in June, the meeting features some of the most valuable and competitive races in the Flat racing calendar, including the Gold Cup and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes.
Royal Ascot is also famous for its fashion, royal procession and exceptional hospitality experiences.
Enquire for Royal Ascot hospitalityGrand National Festival – Aintree
Held just weeks after Cheltenham, the Randox Grand National Festival at Aintree Racecourse is one of the most famous sporting events in the world.
The Grand National itself is renowned for its demanding fences and long distance, making it one of the toughest and most dramatic races in the sport. Millions watch the race each year, while Aintree welcomes huge crowds for three days of racing and entertainment.
Enquire for VIP hospitality for the Grand National Festival at AintreeWhy hospitality elevates the horse racing experience
Major racing festivals are not only about the action on the track. Hospitality packages offer guests the opportunity to enjoy the day with exceptional views, fine dining and exclusive access within some of the sport’s most iconic venues.
Depending on the event and venue, hospitality can include:
- Premium trackside viewing
- Private suites or exclusive enclosures
- Gourmet dining and drinks packages
- Guest appearances and expert racing insight
These experiences allow racegoers to enjoy the occasion in comfort while remaining close to the excitement of the track.
What’s next in the racing calendar
While Cheltenham dominates headlines in March, the coming months feature some of the most prestigious meetings in the sport. From the drama of the Grand National to the elegance of Royal Ascot, the racing season continues with events that attract fans from across the UK and beyond.
For those inspired by the excitement of Cheltenham, the rest of the calendar offers many opportunities to enjoy live racing at its finest.
Experience horse racing in style
The biggest horse racing festivals combine elite sport, social occasion and historic venues.
Explore VIP horse racing hospitality with Seat Unique
Explore horse racing VIP and hospitality packages
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