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Each March, the Cheltenham Festival arrives with the subtlety of a cavalry charge in tweed. The horses are magnificent. The betting slips optimistic. And thousands of otherwise rational adults become expert armchair jockeys and trainers and fluent in ground conditions. For four days, Cleeve Hill echoes with deafening roars, urgent bookmakers and voices insisting their horse “just needed another fifty yards". To thrive rather than merely survive requires preparation. This is that guide. 1. Dress for the Weather That Actually Exists March in Gloucestershire is committed to unpredictability. Bring layers. Tweed is traditional. Waterproofing is advisable. The secret is to appear as though you have just stepped off a country estate, while quietly knowing you are prepared for horizontal rain. 2. Guinness Is a Social Beverage Official scientific consensus has not yet confirmed that Guinness tastes better at the Cheltenham Festival. Bar Willie Mullins, it may be the most beloved thing to cross the Irish Sea during festival week. It is the Festival’s unofficial diplomatic beverage; a pint that encourages conversation, softens racing disagreements, and allows strangers to share opinions without feeling any particular urgency to prove they are right. Hold it. Enjoy it, and let the afternoon take its course. 3. Remember That Everyone Becomes a Racing Expert Cheltenham has a curious social democracy. Bankers discuss breeding lines with farmers. City lawyers explain hurdle technique to people who have actually ridden horses. Smile politely. Nod. Return your attention to the racing. 4. Set a Budget Before You Start Betting Only bet what you can afford to lose and don't not chase losses. The 20/1 shot that “definitely had something about it” is not responsible for your savings account. Festival optimism is a beautiful thing. Financial regret is less so 5. Wear Proper Shoes (This One Matters More Than You Think) You may walk between the rails, the parade ring, the bar, and back again while wondering where the afternoon went. You might easily reach 20,000 steps. You do not want to achieve this in footwear that believes comfort is a myth. Festival racing is endurance sport. Dress accordingly. 6. The Horses And Jockeys Do Not Need Your Feedback Shouting advice to jockeys is unnecessary. The horses are elite athletes. They are already aware that there is a fence. Your emotional investment is appreciated but operationally irrelevant. 7. Make Sure You Eat Breakfast A Cheltenham afternoon begins long before the first race. A proper breakfast is essential. By all means, have a pint of Guinness with it if tradition demands. The Festival is an endurance sport and requires good stamina and a full belly. 8. Visit the Parade Ring (Highly Recommended) Spend time near the parade and pre-parade rings before the races begin. Stand quietly and watch the horses walk. You will notice how big and powerful they are, yet how calm and graceful they appear when moving slowly across the paddock. These are extraordinary athletes who will steal your heart. After the race, find you place to cheer in the winner, and applaud the runners up. The Festival is as much about appreciating extraordinary horses as it is about watching them compete. 9. Avoid the “Cheap Suit Festival Look” Nobody wants to appear as though they have just left a minor legal hearing. Tweed, countryside colours, or smart casual layers are preferred. You are attending racing heritage, not a job interview. 10. Study the Form… Or Follow Your Heart You can spend hours analysing racing statistics, or you can choose a horse because you like: The colour The number The name Or the vague feeling that it looks like a winner At the Cheltenham Festival, any horse can win. Expertise is optional, enjoyment is not. 11. Visit the Guinness Village No visit to the Cheltenham Festival is complete without the annual pilgrimage to The Guinness Village. People arrive as strangers and leave as temporary lifelong friends, and it's a place you should visit at least once. Singing is expected. Dancing is encouraged. Musical accuracy is entirely irrelevant, and should the band play Mr Brightside, dignity may be abandoned in favour of enthusiasm. 12. Do Not Call It “Holland and Cooper” You will see many people wearing beautiful tweed at the Cheltenham Festival. The brand is usually Holland Cooper, founded by Jade Holland Cooper. Not “Holland and Cooper”. These small details matter in countryside fashion. 12. Get a Steak Sandwich If hunger appears, proceed to the parade ring and locate Carbonis. Their steak sandwich is not merely food, it is strategic Festival infrastructure. The 5oz 30-day aged English ribeye in toasted sourdough with Dijon mayo and beetroot leaves exists to remind you that civilisation is possible even in March weather. You will not regret it. 10pm-you will send gratitude. 13. Enter the Shopping Village With Caution The shopping village is a carefully designed temptation zone. You will see things you did not know you needed and will suddenly believe you have always wanted them. It happens every year. The correct strategy is: Admire. Consider. Buy something nice. Support the small businesses inside. Walk away feeling culturally enriched and slightly lighter in wallet weight. Resistance is admirable but not required. 14. Above All, Appreciate the Horses The true heroes of the Cheltenham Festival are not the betting slips, they are the horses. The true success of the Cheltenham Festival is measured not in winnings alone, it is about witnessing athletic courage against gravity, the hill, and history. It is found in conversations on the journey home, the memory of a race where a horse travelled like poetry, and the feeling that you've just witnessed greatness in equine form. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is that... your (not entirely) essential guide to surviving the Cheltenham Festival. The Cheltenham Festival is not about being the loudest person in the crowd, or the person who knows the most about form, breeding, or ground conditions. It is about standing in the March air watching extraordinary horses do extraordinary things. It is about horses jumping fences with grace and power, crowds rising in shared anticipation, and the countryside itself feeling momentarily alive with sport. Come for the racing, stay for the atmosphere and celebrate the horses. If your selections win, enjoy the moment. If they do not, remember that you have spent a day in the company of extraordinary athletes, good company, and one of Britain’s finest sporting events. The Festival is not simply watched, it's experienced. And that is why people return year after year. www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham-festival 
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Let’s be honest, the Cotswolds isn't exactly short of some incredible places to eat in some of its most popular towns. There’s The Old Butchers in Stow-on-the-Wold, Smiths in Bourton-on-the-Water and Juliet in Stroud. All brilliant. But push a little further north, in and around Shipston on Stour (don't squint) and you will stumble upon some of the region’s most exciting food that seems to slip under the radar. Quietly brilliant, exactly where you least expect it. Take The Bower House, the sort of place that makes you wonder why more people haven’t stumbled off the beaten track sooner. Set in a handsome Georgian townhouse in the heart of Shipston on Stour, it feels like a proper neighbourhood restaurant with rooms; warm, elegant, and surprisingly ambitious. Under Head Chef Leo Kattou, menus rotate with the seasons and celebrate British ingredients with ingenuity and restraint, earning AA Rosettes, Michelin Guide recommendations and plenty of local admiration along the way. Now, cross the road, figuratively, if not literally, and you’ll find Bastardo’s Trattoria. Born from the same creative minds (Richard Craven) behind the Michelin‑starred Royal Oak at Whatcote, it wears its Italian inspiration with a distinctly British twist: seasonal produce treated with bold flavour and just the right amount of irreverence. The kitchen is led by John Broughton, formerly Head Chef at the Royal Oak, while the menu is shaped by Craven, whose love of Italian cooking was forged during the early years of his career. Warm, buzzy, and effortlessly confident. The town seems to be staging a culinary coup. And while we're on the subject, we should talk about The Royal Oak at Whatcote. A rarity for the Cotswolds; a village pub with a Michelin star and the quiet confidence to use it without preening. Run by chef‑owner Richard Craven and his wife Solanche, this is proper country cooking with brains and heart. The menu shifts with the micro‑seasons, rooted in wild ingredients and local foragers, from game shot on nearby hills to vegetables and rare breeds sourced from neighbouring estates, all celebrated in dishes pared down to their best possible selves. The service, warm and unpretentious, makes you feel you’re in the hands of friends rather than critics, and that’s part of the magic. Twelve minutes from Shipston is Whichford, one of those villages you could easily drive past without a second thought, which would be a mistake, because it is quietly blessed with not one but two reasons to stop. The Norman Knight (recently reopened under Matt and Katie Beamish of The Kingham Plough) sits comfortably on the village green, all low beams and flagstones, the reassuring heartbeat of a proper country pub and a good menu. Classic dishes are handled with care rather than fuss, making it the sort of place where you arrive for a pint and stay for supper without ever regretting the decision. A short stroll away, The Straw Kitchen at Whichford Pottery offers something more intimate and quietly distinctive. Tucked inside the garden of a working pottery, it's unique, small, brilliant and somewhere that laughs in the face of coordinated colour palettes. Head Chef Christne Bottine creates a menu that is creative without being complicated, the setting charming without trying too hard, and the whole experience feels personal rather than performed. Ten minutes in the other direction from Shipston, The Howard Arms in Ilmington feels like one of those places that has quietly mastered the art of being exactly what a Cotswold village pub should be. The food sits comfortably between classic British pub cooking and something a little more considered, with seasonal menus that avoid unnecessary complication. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and unhurried rather than showy especially with the fires roaring and a dog sitting by you feet in winter months. In addition to these and, again, all within 10 minutes of Shipston you will find The Cherington that offers the reassuring warmth of a proper country pub, honest cooking and long, relaxed lunches. The Fuzzy Duck at Armscote that offers polished seasonal dishes that sit neatly between rustic charm and modern confidence. Meanwhile, Pit Kitchen brings open-fire energy and bold, flavour-forward cooking, proving the countryside can handle a little urban culinary attitude. Herd at Todenham Manor is a quietly confident arrival. The menu leans on farm-sourced meat and locally inspired produce, driven by chef Christopher Ellis in a unique tented restaurant on the farm. in the northern Cotswolds — a wine, produce and pantry concept that feels less like a shop and more like an invitation to savour the region’s best ingredients, with thoughtful selections and seasonal discoveries that reward curiosity rather than hurry. And to wash it down? The Cotswolds Distillery in Stourton does rather lovely things with gin and whisky that reward slow, appreciative sipping rather than hurried drinking. You can lose a morning or afternoon here with brunch or lunch in their Still House cafe. Beer wise, North Cotswold Brewery make proper country ales just outside Shipston that feel designed for worn wooden tables, late afternoon sunlight and conversations that wander pleasantly off topic. They don't offer tours, but you will find their ales behind the bar at many local pubs. Shagweaver is particularly good. And there you have it, this edge of the Cotswolds has been quietly getting rather good at this food and drink lark. While other parts chase crowds and postcards, this is the Cotswolds many people may not have heard about which, in some way, is still part of its charm. If you enjoy eating well, drinking properly, and quietly knowing you’ve found somewhere rather good before the crowds catch on, this is a corner of the Cotswolds worth remembering.  Mentioned in this piece: The Bower House bower.house Bastardo’s Trattoria www.bastardostrattoria.co.uk The Royal Oak, Whatcote www.theroyaloakwhatcote.co.uk The Norman Knight thenormanknight.co.uk The Straw Kitchen www.whichfordpottery.com/visit/straw-kitchen The Howard Arms howardarms.com The Cherington thecherington.co.uk The Fuzzy Duck www.fuzzyduckarmscote.com Pit Kitchen www.pitkitchen.co.uk Herd todenhammanorfarm.co.uk/herd Cotswolds Distillery www.cotswoldsdistillery.com North Cotswold Brewery www.northcotswoldbrewery.co.uk The Cheltenham Festival remains the pinnacle of the National Hunt season; four days where the finest horses, jockeys and trainers from Britain and Ireland meet at Prestbury Park for jump racing at its very best. If you are planning to attend in 2026, or simply want to follow the action properly, here is everything you need to know. What is the Cheltenham Festival? The Festival is the championship meeting of National Hunt racing. Every division has its defining contest here, from the Champion Hurdle to the Gold Cup, and winning at Cheltenham defines careers - both equine and human. Across four days - Champion Day, Ladies Day, St Patrick’s Thursday and Gold Cup Day - the meeting combines elite sport with an unmistakable atmosphere. When is the Cheltenham Festival 2026? The 2026 Festival runs from Tuesday 10th March to Friday 13th March 2026 at Cheltenham Racecourse. Four days. 28 races. Countless stories. The Showcase Races Each Day Each day has a headline act. These are the two biggest races on each card: Tuesday: Champion Day Champion Hurdle Supreme Novices' Hurdle Wednesday: Ladies Day Queen Mother Champion Chase Brown Advisory Novices' Chase Thursday: St Patrick’s Thursday Stayers' Hurdle Ryanair Chase Friday: Gold Cup Day Cheltenham Gold Cup Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle What Time Does Racing Start Each Day? Gates open from 10:30am. The first race is usually run at 1:20pm, with the final race around 5:20pm. It is worth arriving early, particularly if you want to spend time exploring the course and around the parade ring before the opening race. What Time Is the Cheltenham Gold Cup? The Gold Cup, the defining race of the week, is run at 4:00pm on Friday 13th March 2026. It is the moment the entire meeting builds towards. Can I still buy tickets? Yes, but it pays not to leave it too late as Tuesday and Friday often sell out. You can purchase official tickets here - www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham-festival Which Enclosure should I choose? Cheltenham offers three main public enclosures: Club Enclosure The most premium general admission option. Access to the main grandstand, parade ring, winners’ enclosure and exclusive facilities. Tattersalls Enclosure Lively, sociable and well positioned near the finishing straight and Guinness Village. A popular choice. Best Mate Enclosure Opposite the main grandstand, offering excellent views of horses climbing the famous Cheltenham hill. How Much Do Tickets Cost? Ticket prices at Cheltenham Racecourse vary depending on day and enclosure. General admission in the Tattersalls and Best Mate enclosures is more accessible, while the Club Enclosure commands a premium. Gold Cup Day is the most expensive and in highest demand, often costing several times more than Tuesday or Wednesday. Hospitality packages, which include fine dining and reserved seating, are priced accordingly. Which horses and Jockeys should I follow? While final declarations will be confirmed closer to the meeting, several leading names are already prominent in ante-post discussion: Galopin Des Champs, Fact To File and Haiti Couleurs are three you could look out for in the Gold Cup, however our eyes will be on The Jukebox Man for local trainer Ben Pauling. Lossiemouth has a choice of two races, while we wait to see if Constitution Hill will run in the Champion Hurdle. Potential superstars during the week include Old Park Star, The New Lion and Arkle favourite Lulamba. Among jockeys, keep an eye on Paul Townend who rides for Willie Mullins who himself has dominated the Cheltenham Festival in recent years. Closer to home, Nico de Boinville and Nicky Henderson, The Skelton brothers and Ben Pauling and jockey Ben Jones will be the ones to watch. Cheltenham has a habit of elevating new stars, but proven Festival form always counts. What Are the Food and Drink Options on Site? The Festival caters to a wide range of tastes and there is something for everyone. Street-food vendors, coffee stands, and traditional pubs within the Guinness Village provide variety, while hospitality packages offer multiple-course meals and premium beverage selections. The 2026 Cheltenham Festival has made several improvements to ensure that dining and refreshment on course are both convenient and enjoyable. Meal Deals Introduced this season, the Festival Meal Deal gives racegoers the chance to enjoy a hot main, a side, and a drink for £15 — excellent value for a substantial and satisfying meal between races. It is available in the following locations: Best Mate Enclosure
Tattersalls Enclosure
Club Enclosure
All of the above provide extensive seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal comfortably while watching the action unfold. Three new bar areas introduced during the 2025 Festival remain key social hubs for 2026: Winning Post Bar Previously known as the Persian War, this bar is located in the Main Grandstand by the finishing post — ideal for toasting the day’s winners. Home Straight Bar Formerly the Winged Ox, situated in the heart of the Main Grandstand. A great spot for refreshments and atmosphere as races pass by. Sales Arena Bar Now featuring live music between races, adding energy and vibrancy to the Festival experience. Can I have a bet on course? The Festival is synonymous with betting. Bookmakers are positioned across all enclosures, from the parade ring to the grandstand. Many now offer cashless payment options alongside traditional cash betting. Mobile betting apps are widely used, and there is often expert advice available on course to guide newcomers. What Else Can I Enjoy at the Festival? Cheltenham is far more than the racing itself. The Parade Ring Arrive early and watch the horses before each race. The parade ring offers a close look at the contenders and a chance to assess condition, temperament and presence before they head to post. Live Music Across the course, particularly in the Guinness Village, live bands and Irish music create a lively post-racing atmosphere. Shopping The Shopping Village features countrywear, artisan goods, racing memorabilia and premium brands, ideal if you want to invest in something suitably Cotswold. Can I Get Hospitality? Yes, and it is highly recommended if you want a more refined experience. Hospitality packages range from course-side restaurants to private boxes and premium marquees. Expect fine dining, dedicated betting facilities and excellent viewing areas. Early booking is essential. What Should I Wear? There is no official dress code, but Cheltenham style is part of the experience. Think:
March weather can be unpredictable. Sensible footwear is advised, particularly if you plan to do lots of walking between races. What Happens If It Rains? March in the Cotswolds can be unpredictable. Waterproofs, good footwear and layered clothing are advised. The racecourse is well-drained, and racing continues in wet weather. Hospitality marquees provide shelter, and bars and food outlets are designed to operate under any conditions. Cheltenham manages the elements well, allowing spectators to enjoy the Festival regardless of the sky. What Is the Guinness Village? The Guinness Village is a dedicated area within the Club Enclosure of the racecourse, known for live music, Irish hospitality and, naturally, plenty of Guinness. It is one of the liveliest areas on course and one of the easiest places to get a drink quickly! Can I Take My Drink Around the Course? Yes, and the experience is now considerably more relaxed than in previous seasons. Following successful trials during the 2024 and 2025 Festivals, Cheltenham Racecourse has lifted all remaining drinks restrictions within the Club Enclosure for the 2025/26 season. In practical terms, this means racegoers in the Club Enclosure can move more freely around the course with their drinks in hand, whether heading to watch horses in the parade ring or stepping out to the grandstand to watch the race. Does it get busy? Yes, the Cheltenham Festival is inevitably a busy occasion, but there are measures in place to make the experience more comfortable. For 2026, the overall capacity has been slightly reduced from 68,500 to 66,000 spectators per day. This change comes after careful consideration of racegoer feedback, with the aim of easing congestion and ensuring a more enjoyable experience for everyone. It remains a bustling event, but more spacious and comfortable than in previous years. Planning your arrival and knowing where to move on course will help you enjoy the atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed. What Is the Prestbury Cup? The Prestbury Cup is the informal competition between British and Irish trainers across all 28 Festival races. National pride is very much at stake. Can I Meet Jockeys or Trainers? Direct interaction is limited. The parade ring is the closest opportunity to see trainers and jockeys before and after races. Hospitality packages may include brief access to trainers’ areas, but autographs and personal interaction are rare during the event itself. Observing quietly and respectfully is the accepted custom. Where Can I Watch the Cheltenham Festival? Obviously, being at Cheltenham Racecourse is, without question, the best way to experience it. If you cannot attend: ITV provides free-to-air coverage of selected races and Racing TV offers full coverage of every race. How Do I Get to the Cheltenham Festival? By Car Pre-book your car parking pass in advance, they sell out quickly. Park & Ride Official park and ride services operate throughout the Festival and are often the simplest option. By Train Cheltenham Spa station is well connected, with taxis and buses running to the racecourse. Plan ahead is our best advice. Where Should I Go After Racing? Many racegoers walk from the course into Cheltenham town centre. We recommend: The Hollow Bottom in Guiting Power is a proper racing pub with an amazing atmosphere. Live music each night, and if there is a local winner, this will be the place to be! Dunkertons. Just outside Cheltenham with live music, a tap room and lots of street food options to refuel if needed And finally, what Makes the Cheltenham Festival Different From Other Racing Events? Cheltenham blends high-class National Hunt racing with a distinct atmosphere that is part sporting event, part social occasion. The combination of elite competition, packed enclosures, music, shopping, and social interaction makes it unique and nowhere else captures the same blend of prestige, challenge, and tradition. For all the information and tickets, please visit the Cheltenham Racecourse website HERE.  On Monday the 9th of February, the culinary world gathered in anticipation as the new MICHELIN Stars were revealed at the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Ceremony, held at the Convention Centre in Dublin. Here in the Cotswolds, we are pleased to report that five of our restaurants have once again retained their coveted one-star distinction, and here they are!
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The view from 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:
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
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
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.
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.
"My toughest moment by far was having to tell the team that my good mate Ed Slater had been diagnosed with MND"
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.
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.
"Don’t be a lunatic all the time. "Captain Head Loss” was my old nickname!"
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
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
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
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
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
 |  |
There are few places in English rugby that stir the senses quite like Kingsholm. The walk through Gloucester’s streets, the sea of Cherry & White scarves, the unmistakable chorus of the Shed. It is a matchday steeped in ritual. Yet, as the game evolves, so too does the way supporters choose to experience it. For those looking for something a little more polished than the traditional pint on the terrace, The Blindside has arrived to redefine hospitality at Kingsholm.
Tucked away at the very top of the Malvern Tyres Stand, The Blindside is the newest members-only lounge at Gloucester Rugby. It is exclusive without being intimidating, smart without being stuffy, and above all, it feels like a place designed for people who love rugby but also enjoy the finer things in life.
Food plays a central role in setting the tone. Instead of stiff formal dining, The Blindside offers a relaxed spread of tapas-style dishes, created by the club’s in-house chefs using ingredients sourced locally within 40 miles of the stadium. It is food that reflects the Cotswolds’ larder; fresh, seasonal and brimming with flavour, but served in a way that suits the rhythm of matchday. Members can pick at plates before heading out to their seats and return after full-time to graze again while reliving the game’s highlights. It’s casual, sociable and celebratory, a dining style that mirrors the spirit of rugby itself.
Then there is the bar. At the heart of the lounge lies one of its most talked-about features: a self-pour station. The idea is simple but brilliant. Rather than queueing, members can pour their own pint of beer, cider or glass of wine, giving the experience a sense of fun and freedom. It’s hard not to enjoy the novelty of pulling your own pint as you debate the referee’s decisions or toast a last-minute try. For those who prefer something more traditional, the private bar is well stocked, with everything from local ales to Champagne. It is, in short, a bar that keeps pace with the occasion.
The Blindside itself is a space designed to be lived in. Contemporary interiors and comfortable seating create a relaxed, stylish environment that feels more like a Cotswolds private club than a stadium lounge. Pre-match, it is a calm retreat away from the bustle of the terraces; post-match, it transforms into a hub of energy and celebration. Hosted by legendary former Cherry & White James Forrester, the lounge carries with it an unmistakable link to the club’s proud heritage, ensuring members feel connected not just to the game unfolding on the pitch, but to the wider story of Gloucester Rugby.
What makes membership truly appealing is that it extends far beyond the lounge doors. Premium seating in the Malvern Tyres Stand offers superb views of the action, while additional benefits such as access to the Gloucester Rugby Business Club, priority entry into the England Rugby ticket ballot and the option to hire the lounge privately at discounted rates add real depth. It’s not simply a matchday treat but an ongoing connection to both the club and its community.
Perhaps the greatest triumph of The Blindside is the way it balances tradition with innovation. Rugby has always been about camaraderie, about standing shoulder to shoulder with friends and strangers alike, united by the game. That essence is very much alive here. Yet, by adding stylish interiors, inventive dining and playful touches like the self-pour bar, The Blindside offers something new: a hospitality experience that feels fresh, modern and entirely at home in the Cotswolds.
For those who live and breathe the Cherry & White, The Blindside is more than just a lounge. It’s a place to savour the build-up, to relax in comfort, and to celebrate victories in style. It is rugby reimagined for today and a reminder that the best moments on matchday happen not just on the pitch, but in the spaces where supporters come together to share them.
Take a look - www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk/hospitality/blindside-membership
Tucked away at the very top of the Malvern Tyres Stand, The Blindside is the newest members-only lounge at Gloucester Rugby. It is exclusive without being intimidating, smart without being stuffy, and above all, it feels like a place designed for people who love rugby but also enjoy the finer things in life.
Food plays a central role in setting the tone. Instead of stiff formal dining, The Blindside offers a relaxed spread of tapas-style dishes, created by the club’s in-house chefs using ingredients sourced locally within 40 miles of the stadium. It is food that reflects the Cotswolds’ larder; fresh, seasonal and brimming with flavour, but served in a way that suits the rhythm of matchday. Members can pick at plates before heading out to their seats and return after full-time to graze again while reliving the game’s highlights. It’s casual, sociable and celebratory, a dining style that mirrors the spirit of rugby itself.
Then there is the bar. At the heart of the lounge lies one of its most talked-about features: a self-pour station. The idea is simple but brilliant. Rather than queueing, members can pour their own pint of beer, cider or glass of wine, giving the experience a sense of fun and freedom. It’s hard not to enjoy the novelty of pulling your own pint as you debate the referee’s decisions or toast a last-minute try. For those who prefer something more traditional, the private bar is well stocked, with everything from local ales to Champagne. It is, in short, a bar that keeps pace with the occasion.
The Blindside itself is a space designed to be lived in. Contemporary interiors and comfortable seating create a relaxed, stylish environment that feels more like a Cotswolds private club than a stadium lounge. Pre-match, it is a calm retreat away from the bustle of the terraces; post-match, it transforms into a hub of energy and celebration. Hosted by legendary former Cherry & White James Forrester, the lounge carries with it an unmistakable link to the club’s proud heritage, ensuring members feel connected not just to the game unfolding on the pitch, but to the wider story of Gloucester Rugby.
What makes membership truly appealing is that it extends far beyond the lounge doors. Premium seating in the Malvern Tyres Stand offers superb views of the action, while additional benefits such as access to the Gloucester Rugby Business Club, priority entry into the England Rugby ticket ballot and the option to hire the lounge privately at discounted rates add real depth. It’s not simply a matchday treat but an ongoing connection to both the club and its community.
Perhaps the greatest triumph of The Blindside is the way it balances tradition with innovation. Rugby has always been about camaraderie, about standing shoulder to shoulder with friends and strangers alike, united by the game. That essence is very much alive here. Yet, by adding stylish interiors, inventive dining and playful touches like the self-pour bar, The Blindside offers something new: a hospitality experience that feels fresh, modern and entirely at home in the Cotswolds.
For those who live and breathe the Cherry & White, The Blindside is more than just a lounge. It’s a place to savour the build-up, to relax in comfort, and to celebrate victories in style. It is rugby reimagined for today and a reminder that the best moments on matchday happen not just on the pitch, but in the spaces where supporters come together to share them.
Take a look - www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk/hospitality/blindside-membership
There are few spectacles in sport that can match Cheltenham in March. The Cheltenham Roar, the finest jump horses on earth, and enough tweed to upholster the Cotswolds twice over. Yet even the Home of Jump Racing knows that greatness isn’t achieved by standing still.
For 2025/26, Cheltenham Racecourse is sharpening its act once more, with a series of enhancements designed to ensure The Festival remains as memorable as it is magnificent.
“This is about evolution, not revolution,” says Chief Executive Guy Lavender, who has wasted no time in stamping his vision on Prestbury Park. “Our goal is simple: world-class racing at a world-class venue.”
Breathing Room, Not Bustling Crowds
This year’s Festival will welcome fewer racegoers each day – a deliberate reduction from 68,500 to 66,000. It may not sound dramatic, but anyone who has ever tried to elbow their way through a soggy bottleneck in Tattersalls will appreciate the difference. Space, after all, is a luxury.
Pints and Prosecco
In news guaranteed to bring a cheer almost as loud as the roar itself, the price of Guinness is going down. Yes, back to £7.50 a pint – a rare case of racing history repeating itself in the punter’s favour. Spirits follow suit with reductions of their own, and Prosecco joins the line-up for the first time for those looking to toast their winners in sparkling style.
Removal of Drinks Restrictions
After a successful trial run last season, Cheltenham has done the decent thing and lifted the final drinks restrictions in the Club Enclosure for 2025/26. In short, you may now wander the course pint in hand without fear of being corralled. The change not only makes for a more civilised flow of racegoers (and shorter queues at the bar), but also restores a sense of freedom that pairs rather well with a Guinness. The only corners of the course where a glass remains unwelcome are those reserved for Officials.
New Homes for Old Favourites
Hospitality also gets a lift. The Tented Village will boast a new covered food court, while the Cottage Rake and Mill House bars are reborn as the stylish Prestbury View. The Green Grazer food hall will champion local produce – a nod to both sustainability and the Cotswolds’ rich culinary heritage.
Sharper Sound, Smarter Screens
Gone are the days of muffled commentary or squinting at the big screen. A state-of-the-art PA system promises crystal-clear race calls, while upgraded Racecourse TV will deliver more data, more insight, and more drama straight to your eyes and ears.
Ladies Day Returns
Wednesday of The Festival sees the return of Ladies Day for the first time since 2019. Think £10,000 in Style Awards prizes, fashion partnerships with Debenhams and Holland Cooper, and the sort of glamour that turns Cheltenham’s enclosures into catwalks with a soundtrack of hooves.
Value, From Ticket to Pillow
Cheltenham is also taking the sting out of logistics. Tickets once again start from £35 if booked early enough, with extended discount windows to keep costs sensible. The “Room to Race” initiative expands, working with more hotels to tackle the notorious Festival price hike.
Cheltenham is already the sport’s crown jewel. But Lavender’s direction makes clear that it intends to sparkle a little brighter each year. More space, sharper facilities, a cheaper pint, and the return of Ladies Day.
After all, The Festival isn’t just about four days of racing. It’s about four days of being part of something utterly, unmistakably special.
www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham-festival
For 2025/26, Cheltenham Racecourse is sharpening its act once more, with a series of enhancements designed to ensure The Festival remains as memorable as it is magnificent.
“This is about evolution, not revolution,” says Chief Executive Guy Lavender, who has wasted no time in stamping his vision on Prestbury Park. “Our goal is simple: world-class racing at a world-class venue.”
Breathing Room, Not Bustling Crowds
This year’s Festival will welcome fewer racegoers each day – a deliberate reduction from 68,500 to 66,000. It may not sound dramatic, but anyone who has ever tried to elbow their way through a soggy bottleneck in Tattersalls will appreciate the difference. Space, after all, is a luxury.
Pints and Prosecco
In news guaranteed to bring a cheer almost as loud as the roar itself, the price of Guinness is going down. Yes, back to £7.50 a pint – a rare case of racing history repeating itself in the punter’s favour. Spirits follow suit with reductions of their own, and Prosecco joins the line-up for the first time for those looking to toast their winners in sparkling style.
Removal of Drinks Restrictions
After a successful trial run last season, Cheltenham has done the decent thing and lifted the final drinks restrictions in the Club Enclosure for 2025/26. In short, you may now wander the course pint in hand without fear of being corralled. The change not only makes for a more civilised flow of racegoers (and shorter queues at the bar), but also restores a sense of freedom that pairs rather well with a Guinness. The only corners of the course where a glass remains unwelcome are those reserved for Officials.
New Homes for Old Favourites
Hospitality also gets a lift. The Tented Village will boast a new covered food court, while the Cottage Rake and Mill House bars are reborn as the stylish Prestbury View. The Green Grazer food hall will champion local produce – a nod to both sustainability and the Cotswolds’ rich culinary heritage.
Sharper Sound, Smarter Screens
Gone are the days of muffled commentary or squinting at the big screen. A state-of-the-art PA system promises crystal-clear race calls, while upgraded Racecourse TV will deliver more data, more insight, and more drama straight to your eyes and ears.
Ladies Day Returns
Wednesday of The Festival sees the return of Ladies Day for the first time since 2019. Think £10,000 in Style Awards prizes, fashion partnerships with Debenhams and Holland Cooper, and the sort of glamour that turns Cheltenham’s enclosures into catwalks with a soundtrack of hooves.
Value, From Ticket to Pillow
Cheltenham is also taking the sting out of logistics. Tickets once again start from £35 if booked early enough, with extended discount windows to keep costs sensible. The “Room to Race” initiative expands, working with more hotels to tackle the notorious Festival price hike.
Cheltenham is already the sport’s crown jewel. But Lavender’s direction makes clear that it intends to sparkle a little brighter each year. More space, sharper facilities, a cheaper pint, and the return of Ladies Day.
After all, The Festival isn’t just about four days of racing. It’s about four days of being part of something utterly, unmistakably special.
www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham-festival
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