New Year's Day Racing at Cheltenham Racecourse
Start 2027 in style at Cheltenham's New Year's Day Raceday, the biggest party in town. Experience thrilling, high-quality racing action with seven competitive races, including Graded and Listed contests, offering insight into potential Cheltenham Festival contenders. Enjoy free family entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect way to jump into the new year.
What to Expect
Premier New Year's Day horse racing event
Event Details
Duration
All day
Ages
Under 18s race free (excluding Cheltenham Festival, where children aged 5+ require a ticket). Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult (21+).
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Jockey Club
Food & Drink
Mobile catering units offer various food options like fish and chips, hog roasts, burgers, and hot dogs. Food is also available from bars. Outside food and drink are not permitted in the Club and Tatts enclosures, but are allowed in the Best Mate enclosure (except during The Festival). Hip flasks are not permitted.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Horse racing enthusiasts, families, new year's celebrations
Vibe
Exciting, festive, energetic, social
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Public car parking is FREE for most race meetings, except for Saturday of The November Meeting and all four days of The Cheltenham Festival, where a parking pass must be purchased in advance. Parking is colour-coded by zone; follow 'Public' or 'Green' signs if no advance label is purchased. Arrive early as spaces can fill up.
- Accessibility: Accessible viewing areas are provided in various locations, including The Centaur balcony, by the Paddock, outside the Mandarin Foyer, and on the Level 2 Terrace outside the Home Straight Bar. The Best Mate disabled viewing platform is on level 2. Personal assistant tickets are available upon written application at least one week in advance.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals only)
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets in advance online to secure the best prices and avoid potential sell-outs, especially for popular enclosures.
- Arrive early on raceday to allow ample time for parking, bag searches, and to find your preferred viewing spot.
- Check the racecard and event schedule beforehand to plan which races you want to watch and any specific entertainment.
- Consider the different enclosure options (Club/Tatts, Best Mate, Racing Lounge) to match your desired experience and budget.
- Download the Cheltenham Racecourse app for easy ticket access, racecards, and on-course information.
Special Events & Promotions
- Under 18s race free (excluding Cheltenham Festival)
- Half price tickets for 18-24 year olds with RacePass
- Rewards4Racing points can be collected
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ticket prices and where can I buy them?
Tickets start from £13.50 for the Best Mate Enclosure when booked in advance. Various hospitality packages are also available. It is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance for the best prices.
What time do the gates open and when is the first race?
Gates open at 10:30 am, and the first race is scheduled for 12:15 pm, with the last race at 3:45 pm.
Is there free parking available?
Public car parking is free for most race meetings, with the exception of Saturday of The November Meeting and all four days of The Cheltenham Festival, where a parking pass must be purchased in advance.
Can children attend the event?
Yes, children under 18 are admitted free of charge when accompanied by a full-paying adult, except during The Cheltenham Festival where a ticket is required for children aged 5 and over. Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult (21+).
What is the dress code for the event?
There is no strict dress code, but the recommendation is to 'dress to feel your best'. Comfortable attire is generally advised.
More Christmas Events Near Cheltenham
More Christmas Events near Cheltenham
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.