The upcoming 2026 Cheltenham Festival is expected to attract horse racing enthusiasts worldwide, with a notable trend emerging of some opting to travel to Benidorm, Spain, to experience the event. The festival kicks off at Cheltenham Races on Tuesday, offering four days of exciting races, betting opportunities, and socializing. While tickets are in high demand, a growing number of visitors are choosing alternative locations to enjoy the festival.
According to reports from The Sun, hotel bookings in Benidorm have surged by 225% during the festival period, with The Marina Resort Hotel emerging as a popular choice. This resort offers amenities like big screen TVs, pool parties, and live DJ performances to enhance the festival experience. Many attendees also embrace the festive spirit by dressing in racing-themed costumes. Additionally, prices for beverages in Spain are notably lower, with the cheapest pint costing around £1.70, compared to the higher prices at Cheltenham.
Zoe Harris, chief customer officer of the package holiday company On the Beach, expressed excitement about the anticipated atmosphere in Benidorm during the festival. She highlighted the growing interest from punters, suggesting that this year’s Cheltenham Festival in Benidorm could be the largest yet, with bars expected to be bustling and cheers echoing through the streets.
The shift towards a Cheltenham-themed trip to Benidorm coincides with several changes announced for the 2026 edition of the festival. Adjustments include reduced prices for beverages like Guinness and spirits, as well as improved food and drink options at the venue. Notably, attendees are now allowed to carry their drinks around the racecourse, a change from previous restrictions. Additionally, the reintroduction of Ladies Day and a slight reduction in overall racecourse capacity are expected to contribute to a unique festival experience.
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