The experience of a day at the races is evolving; whether it’s concerts after the horses have finished in the summer or getting a bite to eat or pint before and during the action. Of course, betting remains a huge part of such events, and the Cheltenham Festival is one of the biggest sports betting events on the horse racing calendar. There are four days packed with action, with races including the Ryanair Chase standing alongside the showpiece Gold Cup for punters to bet on at bookmakers including Williamhill. For those that want something a little extra, however, it’s great to know what there is to eat and drink at the racecourse. Booking in advance for restaurant dining is essential given the vast numbers of visitors to Cheltenham during the Festival. Here are four venues that - depending on your budget - are worth checking out.
St. Patrick’s Day might fall just after the 2018 Cheltenham Festival ends on Saturday, 17 March, but punters will be praying for the luck of the Irish all week long. And where better to get into the spirit of the Emerald Isle than the hugely popular Guinness Village? Whether you’re a Club or Tattersalls ticket holder, an Annual Member of Cheltenham racecourse or a hospitality guest, it’s open to everyone. You’ve probably guessed this already but the Village – located near the final fence - serves the most popular Irish stout, Guinness. They say a Cheltenham Festival winner has to be made of more than the average racehorse. You can watch all the action unfold while traditional bands play, giving a warm and authentic atmosphere in the Guinness Village.
What a pity last year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Sizing John is unable to defend his crown due to injury, but if you’re after value for money hospitality at the 2018 Festival then the restaurant named in his honour is a safe bet. [caption id=“attachment_36138” align=“alignleft” width=“687”]
“National Hunt Chase” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Carine06[/caption] Located next to the Guinness Village, the food and drink packages in Sizing John see house wines, spirits, soft drinks and beer included in the price. No extra tab to pick up for booze is a huge plus. Guests in this restaurant get a champagne reception before the off, four-course lunch and afternoon tea. Prices do vary depending on what day of the Festival you are attending, but start from less than £400 per person. Size up your Cheltenham punts in style by booking for your place in the Sizing John Restaurant.
In light of growing hospitality demands, Cheltenham racecourse decided to erect a temporary structure across the horsewalk from the grandstand, which just so happens to give diners a cracking view of the final fence. What better name than that then? With easy access to the parade ring and Guinness Village, plus morning coffee and biscuits accompanying champagne on arrival, you can ease into your day at the races with a four-course buffet lunch served before the off. Afternoon tea is available later on and there’s a house bar inside The Final Fence. Again, prices vary depending on which Festival day you’re going to, but start at £540 per person. Don’t fall short on your dining experience even if some horses out on the track do.
If splendid views and an a la carte menu appeal to you, then only the Panoramic Restaurant will do. Situated on the fifth floor of the main Cheltenham Grandstand and set over three terraces, you can see all the way around the Prestbury Park track and its undulations up and down Cleeve Hill. Prices are either based upon tables of four, so bring friends and loved ones with you, or 12 to accommodate larger parties (or for those who don’t mind sharing). What could be better? 
