Racegoers heading to Cheltenham this season will see a host of changes – from ticketing and drinks to crowd numbers.
Organisers have confirmed the price of a pint of Guinness will drop to £7.50, back to 2022 levels, across all 16 racedays in 2025/26. Spirits will also see small reductions, and Prosecco will be available for the first time. Visitors will now be able to take drinks anywhere on course following the removal of restrictions.
In a move to improve the race-day experience, maximum capacity will be reduced from 68,500 to 66,000 a day, following a review of racegoer feedback. Bosses say the change will ease overcrowding and ensure a “premium experience” for spectators.
For the first time since 2019, Wednesday of Festival week will once again be Ladies Day. Other upgrades include new food and drink options, clearer PA systems, and talks with hotels to secure better-value accommodation.
Cheltenham chief executive Guy Lavender said: “Value for money is one of the most important factors for people choosing events. Reducing the price of a pint and improving our facilities are ways we can respond directly to racegoers’ feedback.”
The changes apply across every Cheltenham fixture this season, but the main focus will be the Festival in March, the highlight of the jumps racing calendar.