The upcoming 2026 Cheltenham Festival is anticipated to attract horse racing fans worldwide. Interestingly, a growing number of enthusiasts are opting to experience the festival in Benidorm, Spain, rather than the UK.
Commencing at Cheltenham Races on a Tuesday afternoon, the festival spans four days of exhilarating racing, betting, and socializing. Despite the high demand for tickets, a notable portion of fans are embracing the festival from alternative destinations.
Reports from The Sun reveal a significant surge in hotel bookings in Benidorm, with a staggering 225% increase during the festival period. The Marina Resort Hotel has emerged as a popular venue offering amenities like large screens, pool parties, and live DJ performances, enhancing the festival experience.
Many attendees indulge in racing-themed costumes while enjoying more budget-friendly drink prices in Spain, with the cheapest pint estimated at £1.70 compared to around £7.50 at the Cheltenham venue, although prices have slightly decreased from the previous year.
Zoe Harris, chief customer officer of travel agency On the Beach, expressed excitement about the growing interest in Benidorm during the Cheltenham Festival, anticipating a vibrant atmosphere and enthusiastic cheers throughout the event.
The trend of a Cheltenham-themed trip to Benidorm coincides with changes announced for the 2026 edition of the festival. The prices of Guinness, beers, and cider have been reduced, and attendees can now freely roam with their drinks within the venue. Additionally, improvements in food and beverages, along with the installation of a new PA system, aim to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Furthermore, the reintroduction of Ladies Day and adjustments to overall venue capacity mark notable changes for this year’s festival. With a slight reduction in the racecourse capacity to around 66,000 from 68,500, the organizers are gearing up for an exciting and vibrant festival experience for all attendees.
