A Girl’s Day with a Hospitality Package at Cheltenham Races?

Living in the shadow of the iconic Cheltenham Racecourse is a pretty beautiful place to live.  In fact as a teenager I walked past the racecourse most days.  It is situated between my childhood home and my old school. PE lessons often involved cross country around the perimeter of the course. Yet it wasn’t until my 30’s that I ever actually attended a race day. I think that in itself shows that we often ignore what is just outside our own backdoor. Maybe a reminder to look closer to home for entertainment and for me it could not really be any closer.

Over the past few years I have been to Cheltenham Races a number of times but have gone on St Patrick’s Day or on the Thursday.  This year I was invited to experience Ladies Day in style with Ladbrokes as an official blogger.  in fact i actually whooped very loudly when that invite landed.

Ladies Day falls on the Wednesday which is the second day of four race days.  Cheltenham sparkles in raceweek with everyone smiling and loving the party atmosphere it brings.  Town is often heaving with swarms of people and the parties last late into the night.

The racecourse is a fun day for all.  No matter what your budget there is a place for you! The cheap seats are in Best Mate up to the celebs in their private boxes.  I have seen a number of high profile people over the years as they mingle in the crowds enjoying the fun of the festival. I have been in the Tatts and more recently in previous years had club tickets.  Club tickets are my favourite, you have access to the champagne bar plus can easily get out onto the course for watching the races unfold.

This year I experienced luxury that is out of my usual budget.  We were enjoying the day from the Festival Restaurant where tickets are £370. Firstly we were welcomed to our table and served coffee and biscuits on arrival. Then we could choose to place bets at the Tote from our table or head outside to place our own.  I opted to place them outside where the odds are better! As we bought such class to ladies day the restaurant manager also gave our group a complimentary glass of champagne which was wonderful.

Lunch was a four course A La Carte meal that was served when we were ready.  I chose a mozzarella and roasted peach starter. Followed with Aged fillet of beef served with creamed horseradish mash, spinach and sauteed mushrooms.  Desert was a dark chocolate pave followed by a cheese board. The food was perfection and I really enjoyed it.

Once the meal was complete we headed out onto the course to watch a race.  The weather was glorious which was an added bonus considering it is only March.  We were able to roam about without a jacket which is pretty unheard of, I would always suggest dressing for warmth as the racecourse is very exposed and open and it can quickly get cold. However as you  can see from the photo it was like a summer’s day.  In the photo I am enjoying the sunshine with my lovely hosts for the day.

The races always offers good value for money and the Festival Restaurant package allows you to enjoy the races in luxury. The restaurant overlooks the parade ring which allows you to get really close to the action.  If you choose not to leave your table you don’t have to. Your bets can be placed easily, there are toilets just for this area and not once did we need to queue. You can watch the race on the screens and if you are wearing really high heels that may well be appreciated by late afternoon!

Ladbrokes truly gave me a day to remember and if you are looking for a special day out a hospitality package at the Cheltenham Races is certainly the way to do it! Oh and if you are wondering I had a few wins! Cheltenham races is the only time I bet on the horses but I struck lucky and had enough to buy a few more glasses of champagne.

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