The upcoming 2026 Cheltenham Festival is anticipated to attract horse racing enthusiasts from around the globe seeking excitement. Interestingly, a growing number of attendees are opting to experience the festival in Benidorm, Spain, rather than in the UK.
Scheduled to kick off at Cheltenham Races on Tuesday, the festival promises four days of thrilling races, betting opportunities, and festive revelry. Despite the high demand for tickets, a significant portion of attendees are gravitating towards alternative locations to savor the event.
Recent reports from The Sun indicate a staggering 225% surge in hotel bookings in Benidorm during the festival period, with The Marina Resort Hotel emerging as a popular choice. This resort offers amenities like large screen TVs, pool parties, and live DJ performances to enhance the festival experience.
Moreover, many attendees embrace the fun by donning racing-themed costumes. In contrast to UK prices, drinks in Spain are notably more budget-friendly, with the cheapest pint estimated to cost around £1.70, a considerable reduction compared to approximately £7.50 at Cheltenham.
Zoe Harris, Chief Customer Officer of On the Beach, expressed enthusiasm for the Benidorm festivities, expecting a vibrant atmosphere during the races. This trend of a Cheltenham-themed Benidorm trip coincides with notable changes announced for the 2026 edition of the festival.
Notable modifications include reduced prices for Guinness and beverages, expanded drink-carrying privileges at the venue, improved food and drink selections, and the reintroduction of Ladies Day to the event calendar. Additionally, the racecourse’s overall capacity has been slightly adjusted to accommodate around 66,000 attendees.
As the festival approaches, the excitement mounts for both traditional and unconventional attendees, promising an unforgettable experience filled with racing, celebrations, and camaraderie.