The upcoming 2026 Cheltenham Festival is expected to attract horse racing fans globally. Some enthusiasts are opting to experience the festival in Benidorm, Spain, rather than the UK.

The festival kicks off at Cheltenham Races with four days of racing, betting, and socializing. While ticket demand is high, a growing number of punters are choosing to celebrate the festival abroad.

According to The Sun, hotel bookings in Benidorm have surged by 225% during the festival period, with The Marina Resort Hotel being a popular choice. The resort offers amenities such as big screen TVs, pool parties, and live DJ performances.

Many attendees embrace the racing spirit by donning themed fancy dress outfits. Prices for beverages in Spain are notably more budget-friendly, with the cheapest pint priced at around £1.70 compared to approximately £7.50 at Cheltenham.

Zoe Harris, chief customer officer of On the Beach, expressed excitement about the increasing interest in experiencing the Cheltenham Festival in Benidorm. The festival has introduced various enhancements for the 2026 edition, including reduced prices for drinks and minor adjustments to the overall setup.

Ladies Day has made a comeback to the schedule, attracting more female participants. Additionally, the racecourse’s capacity has been slightly reduced to around 66,000 attendees. These changes aim to enhance the overall festival experience for both local and international visitors.