The upcoming 2026 Cheltenham Festival is anticipated to attract horse racing enthusiasts worldwide. Interestingly, an increasing number of punters are opting to experience the festival outside the UK, with the Spanish town of Benidorm emerging as a popular destination.
Scheduled to commence at Cheltenham Races on Tuesday afternoon, the festival promises four days of thrilling races, betting activities, and socializing. While ticket sales are expected to soar, a growing segment of fans is choosing to partake in the festival from alternative locations.
Recent reports from The Sun reveal a significant surge of 225% in hotel bookings in Benidorm during the festival period, with The Marina Resort Hotel emerging as a favored accommodation choice. The 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 donning racing-themed costumes. Additionally, the cost of drinks in Spain is notably lower, with the least expensive pint priced around £1.70, a stark contrast to the £7.50 price tag at Cheltenham, albeit slightly reduced from the previous year.
Zoe Harris, the chief customer officer of On the Beach, expressed excitement about the anticipated buzz in Benidorm during the festival. She highlighted the increasing number of punters flocking to the town, making this year’s event the most significant Cheltenham Festival Benidorm has ever witnessed.
The trend of a Cheltenham-themed trip to Benidorm has gained momentum following the announcement of several enhancements for the 2026 edition. Changes include reduced prices for Guinness and other beverages, increased flexibility for carrying drinks within the venue, improved food and drink options, and the installation of a new PA system.
Moreover, the reintroduction of Ladies Day, the slight reduction in overall racecourse capacity from 68,500 to around 66,000, and other updates aim to elevate the festival experience for attendees.
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