Whether in October’s gold or March’s first green, there's always something special about a day at Cheltenham. The air has that unmistakable energy, a hum of excitement and murmur of anticipation before the first race that seems to roll off Cleeve Hill itself. 

A crisp wind sweeps the course, bringing tweed back into fashion, and the faint threat of rain makes our booked hospitality in The Mandarin Restaurant feel all the more inviting.

The Mandarin has an easy warmth about it. It’s styled more country pub than a corporate hospitality suite; relaxed, comfortable, and pleasingly unpretentious. There are tables for singles or couples, larger ones for groups and booths for a slightly more private get together. Once seated, that table is yours for the whole day and you can come and go as you please. Wander out and about to watch the horses in the Parade Ring (literally just outside the door), drift around the course watching the races from the rails, or simply stay put with a glass of wine in hand and watch the races unfold on one of the screens around the restaurant or from its own outside viewing area. And the real magic? The three courses of lunch arriving precisely when you desire, allowing the afternoon to linger at your own pace.

​Lunch began with our chosen starters, Salt and Pepper Squid and the Martell Double Gloucester Cheese Soufflé. 

The squid arrived looking far smarter than squid really has any right to, laid out on a little bed of leaves, golden and glistening in all the right places. The coating was thin, crisp, and gave way to the tender flesh beneath. A few curls of pickled red chilli brought the right flicker of heat, just enough to wake it up without becoming too shouty. It was as close to impressive as a plate of squid ever gets.

The soufflé, meanwhile, was a triumph, both in look and taste. Light, airy, and beautifully soft, it carried the rich flavour of the cheese with effortless charm. The Stowford Press cider apple chutney lent a gentle sweetness that sang in harmony, while the toasted honey seeds offered a subtle crunch.

​After taking in a race from the rails opposite the final hurdle, we strolled back to the restaurant for our mains.

The Supreme of English Chicken took us a little by surprise and quietly stole the show. The meat was perfectly tender, the tender stem broccoli made us feel better about ourselves and the potato dauphinoise added just the right creamy richness without feeling heavy. A Glastonbury Tor goat’s cheese bonbon offered a gentle tang, while the chimichurri brought a fresh lift that pulled it all together.

The 28-day aged Rib-Eye was equally impressive; bold, confident, and cooked rare, though you can, of course, request it more done if you prefer. Full of flavour, it was paired with thick-cut chips that were crisp, fluffy, and some of the best we’ve ever tasted. The onion rings were self-assured circles of crunch and the tomato added a gentle sweetness. But let’s be honest, the meat and chips were the stars here.

Throughout the afternoon, the restaurant carried an easy rhythm. Guests drifted in and out between races, there were cheers and groans from those watching the screens, and the sound of the Cheltenham crowd floated in from outside. 

We shared a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc (priced at £34.50 which we didn't think was actually too horrendous) that was bright, crisp, and perfectly pleasant. We're not entirely sure why The Mandarin doesn’t serve wine by the glass, but in the spirit of the day, the bottle was hardly a problem. 

Dessert made a perfectly polite exit from the meal, but in the best possible way. The Selection of British Cheeses was just right with no huffing, puffing, or pretence, just cheese behaving exactly as it should. The Sticky Toffee Apple Pudding, meanwhile, was the sort of warm, gently sweet thing that makes you sigh in approval. The apple added a touch of balance, the honeycomb crisp added a different texture and a scoop of salted caramel ice cream melted lazily and eventually feel off its tower into the sauce.

All told, a lunch at The Mandarin is the sort of thing that quietly transforms a day at the races. You’re not just watching horses, you’re settling in, eating well, drinking something decent, and drifting in and out of the action without ever feeling hurried. It’s a clever way of elevating your raceday and the sort of indulgence that makes a day at Cheltenham even more enjoyable and entirely worth doing.

www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/hospitality/restaurant-packages/the-mandarin-restaurant

On Sunday 9 November 2025, Kingsholm will ready itself for something far greater than rugby.

The 745 Game is a match that carries more weight than any result could measure. A fixture born from friendship, courage and hope will bring together legends of Rugby Union and Rugby League for a single cause that transcends sport. To call it a match would be to miss its heart. Two codes united under one purpose.

And at its core stand three numbers: 7, 4, and 5.
Three jerseys.
Three men.
Three lives touched by the same devastating diagnosis.

Rob Burrow, Ed Slater and Doddie Weir

It was a dream first shared by Burrow and Slater, who wanted to see their beloved sports come together in a hybrid contest that could raise awareness and funds for the fight against MND. Before Rob passed away in June 2024, aged just 41, the idea had already begun to take shape. His friend Ed, himself living with the disease, vowed that the dream would not fade and last November we saw the inaugural game take place at Headingley Rugby Stadium.

Yet this year’s game carries even deeper poignancy. Only recently, the rugby world learned that England legend Lewis Moody has also been diagnosed with MND. Another reminder, as if one were needed, of how cruel and indiscriminate the disease can be. But within that sorrow, the rugby community has responded with determination and unity, standing together to support those affected and to honour these men who have inspired so many.

The 745 Game will be unlike anything the rugby world has seen. A 13-a-side hybrid where the lines between Union and League blur beautifully; six forwards, seven backs, uncontested scrums, five-man lineouts, and a unique blend of tactics that call on the strengths of both codes. There will be five points for a try, two for a penalty, conversion and drop goal, and the rhythm of the match will change as teams cross halfway with unlimited tackles in their own half and just six once they attack.

Some of the players set to take part include some of the most recognisable names in rugby: Mike Tindall, Ben and Tom Youngs, Billy Twelvetrees, Chris Hill, Joe Marler, Michael Lawrence, Jim Hamilton, Keith Senior, Richard Hibbard, and Jermaine McGillvary.

All proceeds from the 745 Game will be shared equally among three outstanding charities:

• The Rob Burrow Discretionary Trust: Founded by Burrow and his family, it provides practical and emotional support to those living with MND, from essential equipment to care and family experiences.
• The 4Ed Foundation: Created by Ed Slater, it provides grants to families living with MND, helping with home adaptations, medical equipment, holidays, and other forms of support.
• My Name’5 Doddie Foundation: Established by Doddie Weir, this foundation funds research, offers care grants, and ensures that no one affected by MND faces the disease alone.

Together, these charities provide vital support and practical assistance while raising awareness of the challenges presented by MND.

Rob Burrow's hope for the future was to live in a world where Motor Neurone Disease no longer exists, and each pass, tackle, and cheer from the stands is a reminder that even in the face of life’s toughest challenges, it is one that can be fought together.

This is rugby stripped to its essence: camaraderie, respect, fight and courage. 
​
The 745 Game
Sunday 9 November 2025  •  Kick-off 17:40
Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester
Live on TNT Sports 1 & discovery+

BUY TICKETS HERE

After only just waving goodbye to the warmer days of 2025, summer 2026 is already shaping up nicely with Wychwood Festival dropping its first big name.

Indie legends Kaiser Chiefs will headline Saturday night, 30th May, bringing their riotous energy (pun very much intended) to Cheltenham Racecourse for the festival’s 20th anniversary celebrations.

After its biggest-ever year in 2025, Wychwood is well and truly cemented as the Cotswolds’ ultimate summer curtain-raiser. Each year, thousands flock to the Racecourse for three glorious days of music, comedy, family fun and a few pints under the sun, and 2026 looks set to raise the bar yet again.

Headlining in the shadows of Cleeve Hill, the Kaiser Chiefs will belt out all the big ones; ‘Ruby’, ‘I Predict a Riot’, ‘Everyday I Love You Less and Less’ and ‘Never Miss a Beat’. Expect frontman Ricky Wilson to charm the crowd with his trademark energy and quick wit, as one of Britain’s best-loved live bands take centre stage once more.

It’s a fitting choice for a festival that knows exactly how to get a field full of families, friends and free spirits singing together. Following a record-breaking 2025 featuring Doves, James, Shed Seven and more, Wychwood has proved itself to be the little festival that punches well above its weight.

Festival Director Graeme Merifield couldn’t be more excited:

“After such an incredible milestone year in 2025, we wanted to come back with something really special. Kaiser Chiefs know how to unite a crowd and bring pure joy to a festival field — it’s going to be a moment to remember.”

With half of all camping tickets already snapped up, under-10s going free, and unbeatable weekend ticket prices, it’s clear the Wychwood faithful are ready for another unforgettable weekend.

So, dust off your wellies, gather the gang and prepare to raise a glass to 20 years of one of the friendliest, most feel-good festivals in the country.

Wychwood Festival 2026 takes place 29th–31st May at Cheltenham Racecourse.

Priority tickets are available from 10am, Thursday 16th October, before the general sale at 10am Friday 17th October.

www.wychwoodfestival.com/buy-tickets

There’s a certain sort of man who seems carved from Pennant Sandstone itself; tough. reliable and, perhaps just a touch stubborn. Lewis Ludlow fits that mould perfectly.

Gloucester Rugby’s longest-serving captain of the professional era, for more than a decade, he has been the heartbeat of Kingsholm: a player built on grit, graft, and a deep pride in the cherry and white. From leading his club through highs and heartbreaks to becoming only the fifth man in history to captain England on his Test debut, Ludlow has always led with honesty, humility, and an unrelenting work rate.

These days, though, his competitive streak has found a new arena. When he’s not charging into rucks, Ludlow can be found tinkering with old Land Rovers, preferably those with more character than comfort, or leading on his young daughter around the pony ring, where it turns out his appetite for silverware remains entirely undiminished.

From Twickenham to tailgates, from The Shed to the stable yard, it’s clear that leadership, loyalty and a little friendly competition run deep in the Ludlow household.

How has it felt running out at Kingsholm without the captain’s armband? Does it feel different?
Running out at Kingsholm is always the most incredible feeling ever, whether you are captain or not. It’s daunting because of the pressure, but you also know that if you give everything you’ve got, you’ve got a whole city backing you which is unlike anywhere else!

You’ve been with Gloucester for over a decade now, does Kingsholm still give you the same buzz as it did when you first ran out there?
It’s my 13th year this year, and it gets better every season. I’m very close to 250 games, but that feeling of warming up and running past The Shed is something that just keeps getting better!

Captaining Gloucester is a big responsibility, did you see yourself as a natural leader, or is it something you had to consciously grow into?
I’ve always captained teams. I like the responsibility of leading and the pressure that comes with it. I’m not afraid to take the flak if things go wrong either. However, being a full-time captain definitely took some growing into. When I went to England, it was different again, captaining a team where you’re trying to bring together the best of the best from 12 different teams.

What was the hardest lesson leadership taught you that people wouldn’t expect?
The hardest lesson was that a lot of the time it might not be your fault, but you're the one in the firing line and that is both really hard and a privilege at the same time. It also taught me that sometimes you have to have brutal conversations with good mates to get the best out of them!

What was your approach in bringing together different personalities in the squad and make them pull in the same direction?
At first, I tried treating everyone the same, but I quickly realised that doesn’t work. You have to get to know individuals and find our what makes them tick and what motivates them. I always tried to be as approachable and helpful as possible to make sure everyone was happy. A happy player is a good, committed player.

What’s one lesson about leadership you wish you’d known five years ago?
Five years ago, I wish I’d known it’s okay to lean on others around you. And, that sometimes, less is more!

How do you personally handle the weight of expectation, not just from fans, but from yourself?
The expectations I put on myself are always the biggest. I deal with that by making sure I do everything in my power to leave no detail or stone unturned, so that come game day I can lead by example.

What was your toughest and proudest moment as captain?
My toughest by far was having to tell the team that my good mate Ed Slater had been diagnosed with MND. On the field, it was when we lost nine games in a row. Everything felt like it was against us. Proudest was either lifting the Prem Cup trophy at Kingsholm, something I always wanted to do, or, getting to have my kids on the pitch with me when we were applauding the crowd. Both are very special. 

When your teammates talk about you years from now, what do you hope they’ll say about how you led them?
I hope my teammates will say I led them with uncompromising energy, always from the front, and that I’d put my body on the line for any of them and for the team.

Who were the players or coaching staff you leaned on as a captain?
I learned to lean on a lot of people, but the key ones would have to be Ed Slater, Billy Twelvetrees, Chris Harris, Tomos Williams, Trevor Woodman, Dom Waldouck, and of course the boss - Skivs.
​
What advice have you given (or would you give) Tomos about the captaincy?
Do it your own way and just be yourself. That’s why you’re as good as you are!

If you could distil your approach to leadership into a single sentence, what would it be?
Don’t ask anything of others that you wouldn’t do yourself.

If your time as Gloucester captain was a playlist, what three songs would be on it and why?
Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne, purely for the fact that it was a crazy ride from start to finish. There was never a dull week!
All of the Lights by Kanye West. This was our walk-out song, and every time I hear it I get shivers down my spine.
Remember the Name by Fort Minor. I like the lyrics; they mean something, and hopefully people remember my time as captain!

If you could give your teenage self advice about leadership, what would it be?
Don’t be a lunatic all the time. “Captain Head Loss” was my old nickname! Sometimes sitting back and reflecting first gets a much better outcome.

How do you balance the intensity of professional rugby with family, friendships, and normal life?
A lot better now I’m not captain, haha! I try to switch off as much as I can. My kids help a lot with that. When I’m with them, I try my best not to do work stuff and to put them first. I think I’ve got a lot better at that. Friendship-wise, I’m lucky that a couple of my best mates are farmers who haven’t got a clue about rugby, so when we meet up, there’s no rugby chat whatsoever, which is nice sometimes!

We see you’re now a “Pony Dad”. Is family the best distraction and a good way of putting the sport into perspective?
I’m very much a horse dad which I love, although I’ve become hugely competitive with it! We’re hoping to get my daughter a HOYS-quality Dartmoor for lead rein next year, and I want to win everything! Family puts everything into perspective. Watching my daughter ride gives me as much pride as anything I’ve done on the pitch

You have a love for old Land Rovers. What drew you to this hobby, and how did it start?
My dad and grandad are both mechanics, and I’ve always loved Land Rovers. I was brought up in them! They’re easy to fix and can go anywhere. I’m obsessed, yeah.

Do you have a favourite Land Rover model or story from your restoration projects?
My favourite would be the Series 1. The simplicity of it and the fact it’s stood the test of time. I was lucky enough to own one that was the only 80” recovery model of its type, but I sadly had to sell it to fund our house build. One day I’ll get it back! I’m also a big fan of Discovery 1s and 2s. I’ve had loads!

What do the next five years look like in rugby? What do you hope to achieve?
If I’m still playing in five years, I’ll be very happy. I want to have had a testimonial at Gloucester, beat the all-time appearance record, and reach 300 caps. Then I could retire feeling like I’d achieved something. Along the way, a few more trophies at Kingsholm would be awesome too!

And finally! If you could leave a legacy beyond rugby, what would you want it to be?
​If I could leave a legacy beyond rugby, it would be that I was a good bloke who helped anyone out and always cared about others before myself. If people had that perception of me, I’d be very happy.

Follow Lewis and Gloucester Rugby this season here - www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk

​​In partnership with Gloucester Rugby
www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk

Nestled in village of Ewen, just a stone’s throw from Cirencester, The Wild Duck is preparing to make a much-anticipated return next spring. Once one of the area’s most beloved pubs before its closure in March 2019, the 16th-century coaching inn will soon reopen its doors under the expert care of Sam and Georgie Pearman, the duo behind the acclaimed Country Creatures collection.

Having breathed new life into the wonderful Double Red Duke and Mason’s Arms in Clanfield, The Wild Duck will become the third addition to their Cotswolds family, promising the same blend of warmth and quiet sophistication that has become their hallmark.

Originally the gardener’s cottage for nearby Ewen Manor, The Wild Duck is steeped in history and charm. Its latest chapter will see a full restoration that honours its past while reimagining it for a new generation of guests. Inside, Georgie Pearman will oversee the design of 20 beautiful new bedrooms, each thoughtfully created to reflect the inn’s rustic heritage with a contemporary Cotswold touch.

www.countrycreatures.com

Cheltenham’s dining scene continues to evolve, and its latest addition brings something altogether new. COALHOUSE, a smokehouse and taproom created by chef-restaurateur Lewis Spencer and co-owned by Jay Rahman of Prithvi, promises to add depth, warmth and a touch of smoke to the town’s food landscape.

At its heart lies the philosophy of “Brew & Que”- the simple but irresistible idea of live-fire cooking paired with excellent local brews. The inspiration draws from the fire pits of the United States and the bold flavours of Mexico, but the execution will feel firmly rooted in Cheltenham.

Expect dishes led by the smoker; slow-cooked brisket, pulled pork, flame-charred vegetables, each imbued with that unmistakable smokiness which only time and wood can achieve. This is food designed for sharing, generous in both flavour and spirit, with the emphasis on comfort rather than ceremony.

Alongside the food sits an equally important element: the taproom. The bar champions craft beers and ciders from local breweries, with a rotating selection designed to complement the food. A hoppy pale ale with ribs, perhaps, or a crisp cider to cut through the richness of tacos, each pairing is considered, without being overthought.

The atmosphere is intended to be lively and welcoming; less formal restaurant, more gathering place. Music, conversation and the comforting aroma of smoke will define the experience, creating somewhere to settle in for an evening with friends as much as to enjoy a quick bite and a pint.

With Spencer’s expertise in live-fire cooking and Rahman’s proven eye for creating standout dining destinations, COALHOUSE is set to become a distinctive new fixture in Cheltenham. A place where the focus is on flavour, sociability and craft – all the right ingredients for a restaurant the town will quickly make its own.

Where & when:
​32-34 Clarence St, Cheltenham GL50 3NX
17.10.2025