Cheltenham Festival Fashion Tips

The Cheltenham Festival is the biggest meeting of the year in horse racing in the UK, with thousands flocking to the Gloucestershire venue every year for the five-day Jumps meeting in March. 

Although the racing on the track is the key attraction, it is not the only thing racegoers love about the meeting. Fashion is also a key part of the week. Here is a look at some of the fashion tips to bear in mind if you are heading to the Festival in 2025.

Ladies’ Day is the Highlight of The Week 

Although there is no official dress code for the general enclosures at the Cheltenham Festival, many racegoers enjoy dressing up for the meeting, particularly on Ladies’ Day, which is day three of the meeting on the Thursday.

The feature race on Ladies’ Day is the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle. Last year’s winner Teahupoo is the 2/1 favourite in the Cheltenham betting to defend his crown in the Championship race in 2025.

As the horse racing results show, Teahupoo was one of the most impressive winners at the Festival in 2024. He scored by over three lengths in front of over 60,000 spectators on Ladies’ Day. A packed crowd is expected again on what is many people’s favourite day of the week.

To dress to impress on Ladies' Day, it may be worth taking note of what was worn this year. Tweed was one of the most common choices at the Cheltenham Festival in 2024, particularly on Ladies’ Day, and that is likely to be the case again in 2025. Colour-matching was also prevalent amongst the attendees - a bright-coloured fascinator was often paired with the same colour blazer, dazzling the crowds. As for 2o25, colour-coordination is not going to go out of fashion anytime soon, so opt for the same colour of hat or other accessory to match your clothes for a bold, stylish look.

Consider Weather

With the Cheltenham Festival being scheduled for March, the weather is a key factor when it comes to your outfit. It is vital you check the forecast beforehand, as the meeting has seen snow, gales and glorious sunshine in recent years. In 2008, the meeting had to abandon day two due to high winds.

A stylish coat is the first thing to consider for the Cheltenham Festival, as you will need it when you are walking around the racecourse. You are likely to be wearing the coat for most of the day if you have a general admission ticket.

Women often go for smart country wear at this meeting, with knee-high boots. To help with the weather, if it is chilly, think about a hat and a luxurious scarf. Finally, consider a tote handbag that goes with your outfit. This needs to be large enough to keep your belongings, but also stylish.

For men, a suit or smart jacket with trousers is advised. This can be covered with a wool overcoat to keep you warm across the day. 

Hospitality

If you are lucky enough to be enjoying hospitality at the Cheltenham Festival, there may be a dress code for your area. The racecourse’s official website will provide all the details you need to know ahead of your visit.

Cheltenham Racecourse offer fine dining in one of their restaurants at the Cheltenham Festival while if you are looking for something more private, you can hire a box in the main grandstand, providing you with the best view of the racecourse.

The 2025 Cheltenham Festival takes place between 11-14 March 2025, and tickets remain available for all five days.