Upcoming Horse Racing Festivals and Events to Look Forward To
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Upcoming Horse Racing Festivals and Events to Look Forward To

EREmma Richardson
March 15, 2026

The Road to Cheltenham: All Eyes on Jump Racing’s Crown Jewel

The Cheltenham Festival, often dubbed the pinnacle of National Hunt racing, is fast approaching in March 2024. This four-day extravaganza attracts the finest horses, trainers, and jockeys from the UK, Ireland, and beyond. With championship races like the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the Champion Hurdle, and the Queen Mother Champion Chase, it’s truly the highlight of the jump season. Racing fans can review Cheltenham-specific details to stay ahead, including tips, schedules, and betting calculators.

Many trainers are beginning to line up their stars for key trials at Prestbury Park. Names like Constitution Hill, Galopin Des Champs and Corach Rambler are already generating significant chatter. Keep an eye on our racecards to spot these contenders in their warm-up runs as their Cheltenham campaigns unfold.

Flat Season Farewell: All Weather Championships and Winter Racing

While the jump season dominates in winter, flat racing enthusiasts still have plenty to cheer for with the All-Weather Championships providing high-quality races. Lingfield, Wolverhampton, and Newcastle host some thrilling contests between December and Easter weekend.

These refined races offer competitive action worth analysing for bettors. Be sure to browse tomorrow’s tips for insights into upcoming flat fixtures and winter racing stars poised to shine.

Big Days at Ascot: From Jumps to Flat Racing Extravagance

Royal Ascot may be the jewel of flat racing’s summer crown, but Ascot Racecourse is equally revered during the jump season. Prestigious races such as the King George VI Chase take centre stage during the festive period, firmly establishing the venue's significance in both racing codes. Could this year’s King George event present a duel between some of the season's leading horses?

Whether you’re planning bets on Ascot during jump or flat racing, our expert each-way tips and betting tools are designed to fine-tune your wagering strategies.

Punchestown Festival: Ireland’s End-of-Season Showcase

Irish racing fans know that the Punchestown Festival is not just the closing event of the jump season—it’s a celebration of everything brilliant about National Hunt racing. Held annually in late April, Punchestown delivers drama and excitement with Grade 1 races including the Punchestown Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle. This festival serves as an excellent arena to compare UK-trained horses against their Irish counterparts and often previews the stars of next season.

Find competitive field information for major jumps races by using our horse comparison tools. Whether you’re gauging form or searching for old rivals headlining Punchestown, our resources have you covered.

Key Trials for Aintree and the Grand National

The Grand National, hosted at Aintree each April, is perhaps the most iconic horse race in the world. But well before we hear the infamous ‘They’re off!’ moment, major trials will be held to fine-tune contenders.

Races like the Becher Chase or the cross-country trial at Cheltenham are often viewed as ideal preparations. Stay up-to-date on withdrawals, injuries and confirmed entries by checking tomorrow’s line-ups or monitoring non-runners pages. Will we see a repeat victory for Corach Rambler, or will a new contender emerge?

Plan Ahead for Summer’s Flat Racing Festivals

After the thrills of jump season wind down, the flat calendar introduces dazzling events like Glorious Goodwood, York’s Ebor Festival, and the historic Derby meetings at Epsom. Each offers its own unique flavour for racing fans, from tactical mile races to sprints that stir the heart.

If you’re looking to place multiplegame bets across these multi-day events, our accumulator tips are meticulously crafted for maximum value. Flat racing specialists, jockey stats and current market movers also provide valuable insight into which favourites are most likely to dominate.

Whatever style of racing is grabbing your attention this season, RaceCards.co.uk has a wealth of tools and resources to keep punters informed. From fast results and statistical breakdowns to race-specific betting advice, there’s always something to guide amateurs and pros alike through the thrilling highs of UK and Irish horse racing.