The upcoming 2026 Cheltenham Festival is expected to attract horse racing enthusiasts from various parts of the world. Interestingly, there is a growing trend of individuals opting to experience the festival in Benidorm, Spain, rather than in the UK.
The festival kicks off at Cheltenham Races on Tuesday, promising four days filled with racing, betting, and socializing. Despite the high demand for tickets, a notable number of punters have chosen to join a rising community of fans celebrating the festival in Benidorm.
Reports from The Sun indicate a significant surge of 225% in hotel bookings in Benidorm 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 spirit of the event by dressing up in racing-themed costumes. Moreover, prices for beverages in Spain are notably cheaper compared to those at Cheltenham, with the cost of a pint expected to be around £1.70, a considerable savings from the £7.50 price tag at the UK venue.
Zoe Harris, the chief customer officer of On the Beach, expressed excitement about the anticipation surrounding the festival in Benidorm, emphasizing the growing interest from punters. She highlighted the lively atmosphere that is expected to fill the bars along the strip as races unfold and winners are cheered on.
This shift towards a Cheltenham-themed experience in Benidorm coincides with several updates announced for the 2026 edition of the festival. Changes include reduced prices for beverages like Guinness, beer, and cider, as well as improvements in the overall offerings at the venue. Notably, the reintroduction of Ladies Day and adjustments to the racecourse capacity are set to shape this year’s Cheltenham Festival experience.