40 Facts About Cheltenham Races

Cheltenham: The Festival Town

Cheltenham, a charming town in Gloucestershire, England, is famous for its vibrant festivals. Among these, the Cheltenham Festival stands out, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Let's explore some fascinating facts about this renowned event.

1. Festival Central
   Cheltenham is often called "the festival town" due to its numerous events throughout the year, with the Cheltenham Festival being the most significant.

2. Historical Roots
   The festival's history dates back to 1860, evolving into one of the world's most prestigious horse racing events.

3. Daily Crowds
   An average of 65,000 people attend each day, with the Gold Cup Race day attracting the largest crowd.

Economic Impact and Logistics

The Cheltenham Festival isn't just about horse racing; it significantly boosts the local economy and requires extensive logistical planning.

4. Record Prize Money
   In 2019, the festival offered over £4,590,000 in prize money, the highest for any Jump festival globally.

5. Economic Boost
   The event brings over £100 million annually to the local economy, with £20 million from race ticket sales alone.

6. Railway Surge
   Cheltenham Spa train station sees an influx of 135,000 extra travelers during the festival.

7. Steam Train Service
   To meet demand, steam trains from the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway transport fans directly to the racecourse.

Food and Drink at the Festival

Visitors to the Cheltenham Festival enjoy a wide variety of food and drink options, reflecting the event's festive atmosphere.

8. Tea and Coffee Galore
   Festival-goers consume around 8,000 gallons of tea and coffee over the four days.

9. Guinness Galore
   More than 250,000 pints of Guinness are enjoyed, thanks to the large number of Irish fans.

10. Irish Influence
    Irish race fans make up about a quarter of the crowd, influencing the festival's beverage choices.

Beyond Horse Racing

Cheltenham offers more than just thrilling races. The festival includes various cultural activities and attractions.

11. Diverse Activities
    Beyond racing, the festival features music, jazz, literature, and science events.

12. Regency Architecture
    Cheltenham boasts over 2,500 listed buildings, making it "the most complete regency town in England."

13. Pittville Pump Room
    This iconic building is one of five Grade I listed structures in Cheltenham, known as "the jewel in Cheltenham’s regency architecture."

Sports and Entertainment

Cheltenham's rich sports history and entertainment options add to its appeal.

14. Croquet Hub
    Home to one of the largest croquet clubs in the country, Cheltenham is also the headquarters of the international Croquet Association.

15. Traditional Sports
    The East Glos tennis, squash, and women’s hockey club, founded in 1885, is a notable sports institution.

16. Film Fame
    The 1986 film "The Whistle Blower," starring Michael Caine, was largely filmed in Cheltenham.

Prestigious Races and Records

The Cheltenham Festival is known for its challenging races and record-breaking achievements.

17. Famous Faces
    Cheltenham is the birthplace of notable individuals like Richard O’Brien and Eddie "The Eagle" Edwards.

18. Cheltenham Gold Cup
    This prestigious race features 22 fences and offers a prize of £625,000.

19. National Hunt Races
    The festival includes 28 National Hunt races, with the Gold Cup being a highlight.

20. Fence Challenges
    Horses jump 22 fences during the Gold Cup, showcasing their skill and endurance.

Culinary Delights

The festival offers a variety of culinary options to satisfy every palate.

21. Potato Feast
    An estimated 9 tons of potatoes are consumed over the four days.

22. Salmon Savory
    Visitors enjoy 5 tons of smoked and fresh salmon during the event.

23. Bread Roll Bonanza
    A total of 45,000 bread rolls are eaten each year.

24. Afternoon Tea Tradition
    In 2015, 45,000 servings of afternoon tea were recorded, reflecting the British love for tea.

Logistics and Operations

Managing the Cheltenham Festival requires meticulous planning and coordination.

25. Parking Needs
    A total of 36,500 vehicles are parked over the four days.

26. Staffing Requirements
    The festival employs 5,936 staff members, including chefs and hospitality personnel.

27. Helicopter Activity
    An average of 100 helicopter movements occur daily during the festival.

28. Extra Flights
    Ryanair adds 30 flights on the Dublin to Birmingham route, accommodating 20,000 customers.

Historical Moments and Achievements

The festival has a rich history of memorable moments and achievements.

29. Cancellation History
    The festival has been canceled only twice: during the World Wars and in 2001 due to foot-and-mouth disease.

30. Golden Miller's Triumph
    In 1934, Golden Miller became the first horse to win both the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National in a single season.

31. Champion Trainer
    Irish trainer Willie Mullins holds the record for the most Cheltenham winners, with 78 by 2021.

32. Cash Machine Withdrawals
    During the festival, £2.4 million is withdrawn from cash machines.

Festival Highlights

The Cheltenham Festival features several key races and events that draw large crowds.

33. Feature Races
    Five main races, including the Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle, are the festival's highlights.

34. Shortest Race
    The shortest distance raced is 2 miles, testing the endurance of horses and jockeys.

35. Original Gold Cup
    Only one original 1924 Gold Cup can be won, adding to the race's prestige.

36. Festival Duration
    The festival spans four days, each with its own theme, culminating in Gold Cup Day.

37. Shuttle Bus Service
    The shuttle bus operates 80,000 times during the festival, ensuring easy transport.

38. Maximum Capacity
    On Gold Cup Day, the racecourse can hold up to 70,000 people.

39. Bread Roll Eaters
    A total of 45,000 bread rolls are consumed each year, part of the extensive catering services.

40. Yearly Festivals
    Cheltenham hosts 45 music, arts, science, and literature festivals annually, making it a vibrant cultural destination.

Cheltenham's Unique Blend of Tradition and Excitement

Cheltenham Races isn't just about horse racing; it's a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and community. With its roots dating back to 1860, the festival has grown into a global spectacle, drawing thousands daily. The economic boost to Cheltenham is undeniable, with over £100 million flowing into the local economy annually. Visitors enjoy more than just the races, indulging in gallons of tea, coffee, and Guinness, and savoring tons of potatoes and salmon. The festival's charm lies in its blend of regency architecture, lively activities, and the thrill of National Hunt races. Whether you're a racing enthusiast or a culture lover, Cheltenham offers something for everyone. From the iconic Gold Cup to the bustling crowds and festive atmosphere, Cheltenham Races is a unique experience that captures the heart and spirit of this historic town.