With Cheltenham Festival 2026 just over a week away, the excitement isn’t limited to the racecourse. Pubs and restaurants across Cheltenham are gearing up for one of the town’s busiest weeks, eager to welcome the influx of visitors and the energetic atmosphere that accompanies this prestigious event.
Spanning from March 10th to 13th, the Festival is a cornerstone of Cheltenham’s calendar, attracting over 220,000 guests over four days. To accommodate this large crowd, many local establishments are extending their hours, opening earlier and staying open later to provide food, drink, and entertainment.
Several pubs will open their doors as early as 9am to serve breakfast and drinks, helping racegoers start their day on a high note. Live music from local artists will keep the festive spirit alive well into the evenings.
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Josh, Deputy Manager at The Five Alls on Bath Road, shares his enthusiasm: “We love the exposure during Festival week. It’s wonderful to see so many familiar and new faces enjoying what Cheltenham has to offer.” The Five Alls, which usually opens at noon, is opening from 9am during the Festival, serving hearty breakfasts alongside pints of Guinness to fuel visitors before they head to the races.
To address concerns about anti-social behaviour, Josh assures, “We’ve put measures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Our staff are prepared and vigilant.”
Similarly, The Harry Cook Freehouse on Montpellier Walk is extending its hours and updating its breakfast menu for the Festival. Normally opening midday on weekdays and 10am on weekends, it will open from 9am each day of the Festival and remain open late into the night on March 12th and 13th. Supervisor Jess highlights, “We’re excited to offer new breakfast options like waffles and eggs royale, catering to a wider audience during this special week.”
Jess also notes the dynamic Festival atmosphere: “From Wednesday to Friday, the town is buzzing. It’s great to have our full team together, including part-time staff, making the week extra special.” She adds that daytime anti-social issues are minimal, as many guests spend their days at the Racecourse.
Andrew Coates, owner of Sandford Park Alehouse on High Street, is preparing to showcase a curated selection of local and Irish ales. “We want to surprise visitors with real ales from across the Cotswolds and a special selection from O’Hara’s near Cork, celebrating our Irish racegoers,” he says. The pub will open at 9am for breakfast, with live music featured on March 11th and 12th.
Andrew emphasizes the Festival’s positive impact: “It wakes the town up, celebrating music, racing, and culture. Pubs are an essential part of Cheltenham’s fabric during this time.”
Elsewhere, Brasserie Blanc on the Promenade will open from 9.30am, extending its usual hours and offering live music each evening. Manager Jo is looking forward to the busy week: “We’re already busy with bookings, especially from our friendly Irish visitors. We’re thrilled to have local artist Vince Freeman perform on Friday night.”
Additionally, Smokey Joe’s on Bennington Street is playing an important role during Festival week by providing a safe, youth-focused space as part of the ‘No Child Left Behind’ initiative. Open from 3.30pm to 6.30pm on Tuesday and Wednesday, the venue offers music workshops, board games, and supervision for young people aged 11-16. Owner Lyndon Godding reflects, “It’s a pleasure to support the community and offer a safe haven during the Festival.”
Though the Festival’s crowd has evolved, with more stag and hen parties replacing the traditional racing enthusiasts, Lyndon believes “the atmosphere is less rowdy and still beneficial for the town.”
As Cheltenham prepares for another festive and lively Festival week, its pubs and eateries are embracing the occasion with extended hours, diverse menus, and entertainment, ensuring visitors enjoy every moment of this celebrated event.