An incredible new amphitheatre has grown from the earth just outside Stow on the Wold.

The Amphitheatre at Berrybank Park, in Oddington is launching on Tuesday 14 June when Shakespeare’s Globe bring the brutal tale of ambition, incursion, and revolution to life in Julius Caesar.

Set on the ancient wold between Stow, Moreton and Chipping Norton, the beautiful, grassed 500-seat Amphitheatre 
has stunning views across the beautiful Evenlode valley.

The Amphitheatre is home to an exciting new performing arts season that runs until September. A rich and varied programme sees the launch of the first ever Cotswold Comedy Festival take place in July, featuring an array of well-known comedians and many other events, including Jazz, Opera, Broadway and West End music, Outdoor Cinema, Family Events, Cabaret + more!

The season will close with a rousing Picnic in the Park Proms and Fireworks with the Jaguar Land Rover Band, in aid of Kate’s Home Nursing.

A beautiful marquee pavilion provides Front of House facilities, including a bar and restaurant celebrating local produce and an alternative performance space in case of bad weather.

For the full 2022 schedule of events at Berrybank Park, please visit www.amphitheatreberrybankpark.co.uk/whats-on

The Amphitheatre was created in memory of Janet Cockell, a local woman, whose love of telling stories, the performing arts, and the Cotswolds inspired her family to build a venue to celebrate performance in all its magic, while creating a space for everyone, from internationally renowned performers, to local groups, schools, and performers. Janet’s husband, Keith Cockell, had the vision, and co-owner and local farmer, Jono Dudfield sculpted the stunning venue, and tends to every blade of grass and the newly planted orchard. Each tier of the Amphitheatre is wide enough for picnic blankets and deck chairs and high enough so everybody has a perfect view of the action below.

Janet’s daughter, Judy Reaves, heads the creative programme, together with her husband, Production Manager, David Hamblett. A former West End theatre designer, Judy sparks magic with her visual imagination. She has created designs for the BBC, Edinburgh Festival, Lake District National Park, and Chelsea Flower Show among others, along with the nearby Also Festival. David’s career has taken him from the Marines to Moscow State Circus, and he is currently involved with Coventry City of Culture. Their son, Charlie Hamblett, is an actor, (Killing Eve, Around the World in Eighty Days, The Secret Agent). Charlie reprises his role at the Everyman, Cheltenham’s Cider With Rosie, when he takes on the role of the young Laurie Lee for the Orchestra of the Swan’s As I Walked out One Midsummer Morning.

www.amphitheatreberrybankpark.co.uk

Food plays a massive part of The Big Feastival weekend and the 2022 Street Food offering is bigger an better than ever before.

There will be lots of familiar faces, as well as some new folk coming to the festival for the first time.

You can expect everything from an fried chicken and incredible live-fire steak to awesome waffles and banging burgers. There is also every cuisine you can possibly think of, including Asian, Greek, Indian, Middle Eastern and Mexican. 

VIEW THE FULL STREET FOOD LINE-UP

The Big Feastival takes place on Alex James' Farm in Kingham from 26-28 August 2022 and is a 3-day celebration of music, food, family and friends. 

Musical headliners include Stereophonics, Anne-Marie and The Human League and there will be an array of top chefs cooking up a storm in the "Big Kitchen".

For all the info and tickets, visit thebigfeastival.com

he Jockey Club announces today that Boodles, Britain’s leading fine jeweller since 1798, will sponsor the Cheltenham Gold Cup at The Festival™ in 2023 and 2024, when the iconic Grade One contest celebrates its centenary.

The family-owned company first supported the Blue Riband of chasing in March of this year, when Rachael Blackmore partnered A Plus Tard to a historic victory by becoming the first female jockey to succeed. The pair were roared home by a record crowd of 73,875 racegoers at the Home of Jump Racing.

Since Red Splash landed the inaugural staging of the three and a quarter mile contest as a Jump race in 1924, it has been won by some of the most famous names of all-time including Golden Miller, Arkle, Desert Orchid, Best Mate and Kauto Star.

In addition to its support of the Cheltenham Gold Cup Boodles also extends its sponsorship of the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle at The Festival, which it has put its name to since 2018, for a further two years and gains further sponsorship rights across The Jockey Club.

Boodles’ first involvement with The Festival came in 2014, when it backed the Leading Jockey Award. The company also has a major presence in The Orchard™ at Cheltenham Racecourse. Situated in the tented village, The Orchard delivers top-class entertainment with premium and unique experiences for racegoers to make the most of their day at The Festival.

This 2023 edition of the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup will be run on Friday 17th March at the conclusion of the four-day Festival and broadcast live in the UK on ITV main channel, digital platforms, Racing TV, BBC Radio 5 Live and talkSPORT.

For the first time in 2022, the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup was broadcast successfully on national television in the USA via the Fox Sports network, which is available to 55 million households.

Michael Wainwright, Managing Director of Boodles, said:

“After an epic build-up to this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup and then a wonderful day for the race itself, capped by the charismatic Rachael Blackmore being the first female jockey to win it, the Boodles board had no hesitation in extending our association by another two years.

“The whole experience was fabulous exposure for Boodles, and for me personally it provided one of the best days of my life.”

Ian Renton, Managing Director for Cheltenham Racecourse and The Jockey Club’s West Region, said:

“I am thrilled that Boodles has decided to further extend its relationship with The Festival by agreeing to sponsor the next two renewals of the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

“After enjoying a record attendance this year, the 2023 running of the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup takes place on St Patrick’s Day and the great race celebrates its centenary in 2024, so I am sure there are some truly memorable days ahead.

“Boodles is now approaching a decade of involvement with The Festival and hopefully has reaped the benefits of its association with the four biggest days in Jump Racing.

“Coverage of The Festival seems to start earlier and be more extensive with each passing year and it was a milestone moment this year when the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup received its first broadcast on national television in the USA.

“We look forward to continuing to work alongside the team at Boodles with their tremendous passion and commitment as well all our other partners, both old and new, in the coming times ahead.”

Cheltenham's season finale and only evening fixture takes place on Friday 29th April and will feature a live DJ set by Radio One's Greg James in The Centaur after the last race, from 8.30pm - 9.30pm.

It's a meeting that allows amateur riders and trainers to compete for the ultimate dream of winning at the Home of Jump racing with seven fiercely fought Hunter chases over distances expected to range from an extended two miles to four miles.

Gates open at 3.30pm with the first race at 4.40pm.

Please note. Access to The Centaur throughout the day and after racing will only be granted with a Centaur Party Package Wristband. You will be denied access to see Greg James if you do not have a wristband. Children under 18 must also purchase a ticket to access The Centaur.

You can find all the information and tickets here - www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/race-night

Horse racing returns to Cheltenham Racecourse on Wednesday 13th and Thursday 14th April.

It's no easy task following The Festival™ however, April’s two-day meeting is the perfect time to reflect on achievements and remember that racing, no matter the event, is competitive and above all else, a joyous occasion.

As the final chance to watch the professionals test themselves on the track before the summer break, make sure you are there for two-days of racing of the highest quality.

Wednesday will see racing start at 1.30pm and the highlight of the day is the Grade 2 Ceres Estates Charity Silver Trophy Chase.

Thursday is the final chance of the season to see the pro's in action at Prestbury Park this season and the card starts with three red-hot listed races.

To celebrate the Easter Holidays, there will be plenty of FREE family fun entertainment in The Centaur both days.

Book in advance for the best price

www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/april-meeting

We all love a good pie, right?

To celebrate British Pie Week, five of the best pubs are going into to a culinary battle on Thursday 10th March at The Chequers in Churchill. 

The Chequers, The Double Red Duke and The Swan are being joined by The Kingham Plough and The Swan Inn at Swinbrook for an epic encounter to see who will be crowned The Great British Pie Off Champion 2022.

Come and get involved and enjoy a Pie and a Pint for just £20

The guest judges will crown our Great British Pie Champion at the end of the evening

For all the details and how to book, visit www.countrycreatures.com/events

With a little over 3 weeks until the start of the best 4 days in the sporting calendar, The Centaur at Cheltenham Racecourse on Sunday 13 March is the place to be.

Join host Oli Bell and a panel that will include Ruby Walsh, Barry Geraghty and Emma Lavelle from 6.00pm for our Official Cheltenham Festival Preview Night.

All proceeds raised on the evening will be donated to the Cheltenham Festival Charity partner, WellChild.

The official Cheltenham Preview raises the curtain on the festivities of The Festival™. Hear the views and opinions of the expert panellists as they gallop through the form of the best races of Four Days of Extraordinary.

There is also a new VIP hospitality option supported by Daylesford, enabling you to enjoy the occasion in style. VIP access is £40pp (£400 table of 10) – Enjoy a luxurious cheese and charcuterie platter with a welcome drink on arrival and seating at the front of the theatre next to the stage. Call the hospitality team at Cheltenham on 01242 806 570 to book your space.

Cheltenham Annual Members can apply for their complimentary ticket by calling the Membership Team on 01242 513 014. We hope very much that our Members will join the fundraising drive and make a donation on the night. 

www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/the-festival-preview-night

Following a two-year break, Cheltenham Jazz Festival makes a much-anticipated return Cheltenham this spring for six days of live music.

Celebrating its milestone 25th edition, the Festival will take place from Wednesday 27 April to Monday 2 May incorporating large-scale concerts, intimate club shows, world premieres, masterclasses, family-friendly shows and an array of free events.

Amongst the names announced for this year’s event are star US vocalist Gregory Porter, who returns as the Festival’s Artistic Curator, legendary Led Zeppelin rocker Robert Plant with his Saving Grace project, Golden Globe winning pianist, singer and broadcaster Jamie Cullum, multi-million-selling BRIT Award winner Emeli Sandé, blues pop troubadour James Bay, chart-topping pianist and singer Tom Odell, and the multi-instrumentalist and Ivor Novello Lifetime Achievement Award winner Nitin Sawhney.

This year’s Festival will also present a series of ground-breaking collaborations including Imelda May performing an exclusive one-off show with the Ronnie Scott’s Big Band, legendary US saxophonist Gary Bartz with London six-piece Maisha, Brazilian icon Hermeto Pascoal teaming up with National Youth Jazz Orchestra, and the Dave Douglas and Joey Baron Duo.

Tickets go on general sale from Wednesday 2 March 2022 from www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz.

You can find the full brochure HERE.

With only 6 weeks until the Cheltenham Festival, it's time to start planning your week.

Join a panel of horse racing royalty at The Hollow Bottom on Monday 14th March, the eve of the Festival, for a night of discussion, heated debates and the best tips.

Racing Tv's Alex Steedman will chair a panel which includes top jockey Sam Twiston Davies, Grand National-Winning Jockey Carl Llewellyn, Racing Post Tipster Paul Kealy and Star Sports betting guru Luke Tarr.

Enjoy a complimentary drink on arrival, some free bets and some price pushes on the night.

Tickets are just £20 and can be purchased HERE.

The fields for races at the Cheltenham Festival are beginning to take shape.

Entries for the 4 Novice Chases throughout the week have been revealed, with less than 8 weeks until the racing world descends on Prestbury Park.

The Festival™ takes place from 15th - 18th March 2022.

​Arkle Chase Entries: Tuesday 15th March
Blue Lord
Brave Seasca
Captain Tom Cat
Ciel De Neige
Coeur Sublime
Do Your Job
Edwardstone
Elixir De Nutz
Ferny Hollow
For Pleasure
Grand Bornand
Hardy Du Seuil
Haut En Couleurs
Jungle Boogie
Red Rookie
Ribble Valley
Saint Sam
Shadow Rider
Shakem Up’Arry
Third Time Lucki
War Lord
Magic Daze
Riviere D’etel

National Hunt Chase Entries: Tuesday 15th March
Annual Invictus
Back On The Lash
Beatthebullet
Big Nasty
Braeside
Brinkley
Capodanno
Castle Robin
Cavallino
Come On Teddy
Corach Rambler
Diol Ker
Does He Know
Doyen Breed
En Beton
Eva’s Oskar
Fantastikas
Farouk D’alene
Fern Hill
Five O’Clock
Front Assault
Fury Road
Gustavian
Hold That Taught
Indiana Jones
J’Ai Froid
Jungle Boogie
Lord Accord
Major Dundee
Mr Harp
Omar Maretti
Ontheropes
Opposites Attract
Papa Tango Charly
Pats Fancy
Rapper
Roi De Dubai
Run Wild Fred
Slipway
Stattler
Stratum
Streets Of Doyen
The Bosses Oscar
Threeunderthrufive
Tommie Beau
Torygraph
Vanillier
Your Darling
​

​Brown Advisory Novices' Chase Entries: Wednesday 16th March
Ahoy Senor
Annual Invictus
Barnaviddaun
Beacon Edge
Bob Olinger
Bothwell Bridge
Braeside
Bravemansgame
Brinkley
Bushypark
Capodanno
Dickie Diver
Diol Ker
Dusart
Egality Mans
En Beton
Fantastikas
Farouk D’alene
Fighter Allen
Five O’Clock
French Dynamite
Fury Road
Gabynako
Gaillard Du Mesnil
Gallyhill
Galopin Des Champs
Grumpy Charley
Hold That Taught
Imperial Alcazar
Jungle Boogie
L’Homme Press
Mister Coffey
Ontheropes
Oscar Elite
Papa Tango Charly
Pats Fancy
Run Wild Fred
Sounds Russian
Stattler
Stratum
Streets Of Doyen
The Bosses Oscar
Threeunderthrufive
Vanillier
Busselton
Delvino
Silver Forever

Turners Novices' Chase Entries: Thursday 17th March
Barnadviddaun
Blue Lord
Bob Olinger
Bothwell Bridge
Bravemansgame
Capodanno
Captain Tom Cat
Dusart
Egality Mans
El Barra
En Beton
Farouk D’alene
Ferny Hollow
Fighter Allen
French Dynamite
Fury Road
Gabynako
Gaillard Du Mesnil
Gallyhill
Galopin Des Champs
Grand Bornand
Grumpy Charley
mperial Alcazar
Jacamar
Jungle Boogie
L’Homme Press
Millers Bank
Minella Drama
Mister Coffey
Oscar Elite
Papa Tango Charly
Pic D’Orhy
Presentandcounting
Run Wild Fred
Stattler
Stolen Silver
Thedevilscoachman
War Lord
Bussleton
Hardy Du Seuil
Haut En Couleurs
Nassalam
Saint Sam
​Riviere D’etel

Festival Trials Day at Cheltenham takes place on Saturday 29th January 2022. 

This the the last opportunity to witness racing at Cheltenham Racecourse before The Festival™, and that means a superb competitive day of Jump racing.

With seven races on the card, it's the time to finalise your choices and favourites, before all roads lead back to Cheltenham in March. 

Last year's meeting was sadly abandoned but in 2020 we witnessed an excellent day of racing with names such as Paisley Park and Santini securing victories.

Make sure you head to The Centaur after the last race to see the Bootleg Beatles perform live from 4.30pm - 5.30pm.

You can purchase tickets in advance by clicking HERE.

The Scenic Supper will be “popping up”  at Moreton Wine Merchants in Moreton in Marsh this January and February.

The pop-up will take place in the beautifully refurbished Tasting Room which sits 36 comfortably, hosting tables of 2 upwards on Fridays and Saturdays for 6 consecutive weekends in January & February.

You’ll be able to choose from a selection of 9 mouth-watering small plates created by The Scenic Supper's "Master of the Kitchen" Sam Idoine, with wines to match or bottles to sip.

This will take place on:

Friday 21st – Saturday 22nd January

Burns Night Tuesday 25th January

Friday 28th – Saturday 29th January

Friday 4th – Saturday 5th February

Friday 11th – Saturday 12th February

Valentines Night Monday 14th February

Friday 18th – Saturday 19th February

Friday 25th – Saturday 26th February

The opening times for each date are from 5 pm – 9.30 pm (Last food orders)

To book visit thescenicsupper.co.uk

You can view the menu below.

Christmas comes early to Cheltenham every year, with the greatest gift of them all: two days of quality racing action at the Home of Jump Racing for The International on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 December.

The racecourse will be turning yellow on Friday 10th December in memory of Tiggy Hancock who tragically died in a riding accident in June 2021 aged just 15, whilst at team training for the Pony European Eventing Championships. Cheltenham Racecourse welcome everybody who is coming racing to wear an item of clothing that is yellow to support Tiggy's Trust.

With an overseas flare in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase, and more top quality action in the shape of the Unibet Handicap Steeple Chase, Unibet International Hurdle and The International Gold Cup, this two-day race meeting is a highlight of the Christmas racing calendar and kick starts the festive sporting season.

The International Friday

From the the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase to the Unibet Handicap Steeple Chase, it's an important day in the Festive racing calendar and one that always delivers in the entertainment stakes. 

Storm Control, Cogry and the Grand National-winning Mon Mome are just some of the names to taste glory on the Friday of the International.

After racing, we will see the return of the Tattersalls Cheltenham December Sale which provide clients the opportunity to purchase quality English and Irish point to pointers and National Hunt Form Horses from the spring season. The sale is attached to racing and takes place after the last race.

Saturday at The International

The second day of The International Meeting on Saturday 11 December is another fixture that isn't to be missed, and we will be getting in the Festive spirit with Christmas Carols and Live Music.

With clues for The Festival appearing in every race, there's plenty to get excited about with JCB Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle, the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup, the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle and the Unibet International Hurdle.

Winners of those races include real fan favourites such as The New One, Cogry and Fusil Raffles, but who will be adding their name to our honours boards in 2021?

Got2Sing will get the Christmas party started with Christmas Carols on the Centaur Balcony as you enter the racecourse, you will then be able to catch them later in the day on the North Plaza - a perfect area to get racegoers involved in a Christmas sing-a-long.

As well as a fantastic variety of food and drink across the racecourse we will be offering a complimentary mulled wine and minced pie to racegoers on the North Plaza.

There will also be live Jazz music throughout the day from The Hipcats who will roam club/tattersalls enclosure 

Finish each day in The Centaur and watch The Wickermen perform from 3.45pm - 4.45pm.

For tickets and more information, visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/the-international

We are just 2 weeks away from The November Meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse, an unmissable three-day meeting at the Home of Jump Racing.

This is where the magic really starts. 

Countryside Day launches The November Meeting in true Cheltenham style on Friday 12 November.

Featuring six excellent races, including The Paddy Power Handicap Chase, which was won by Magic Saint in 2020, and The Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Steeple Chase, it's a day that is jam-packed with top class Jump racing.

The Hipcats will be roaming around the Club/Tatts enclosure entertaining you with their Jazz music. Make sure you head to the Village where The Lucky 15's will be playing in between races!

Finish the day on a high and head to the Centaur where Chris Stark (from BBC Radio 1) will be joining us to perform a live DJ set from 4.30pm - 5.30pm.

Paddy Power Day returns on Saturday 13 November, and it's a day that simply can't be missed, with The Chip Shop Boys ready to entertain you after racing in the Centaur from 4.15pm - 5.15pm.

Paddy Power Day welcomes seven incredible races including the iconic Paddy Power Gold Cup.

The likes of Imperial Commander and Al Ferof have won the race down the years, but in 2020 it was Coole Cody that took home the glory for jockey Tom O'Brien and trainer Evan Williams.

The November Meeting Sunday returns on Sunday 14 November, and as our only Sunday fixture of the season, it's one that is famed for our world-class free Family Fun and entertainment for Club/Tatts ticket holders.

The Family Fun zone, situated in marquees M10 and M11 will provide a safe space for your tribe to let off steam.  The children’s TV character Bing will be making personal appearances throughout the day and you can find out more info in our Family Fun tab above. Don’t forget that U18’s go free!

There's plenty to enjoy out on the track as well with six thrilling races, including the feature race of the day in the shape of the Unibet Greatwood Handicap Hurdle.

The Shunter won the 2020 renewal, ridden by Robbie Power and trained by Emmet Mullins, before going on to glory at The Festival™.

Book your tickets now  - www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/the-november-meeting

Chef Thomas Straker is taking over the kitchen at Old Gore near Cirencester this weekend.

Thomas has designed an awesome menu meant for sharing for the table. His approach to food is honest, uncomplicated and totally produce driven, using the best seasonal produce available.

He has spent the majority of the last decade working in some of London’s top restaurants, The Dorchester, Dinner and Elystan street to name a few.

On Friday and Saturday night, and Sunday lunch, Thomas will be firing up all of the firepits at Old Gore, where he will be showcasing what his food is all about, simplicity, seasonality and conviviality, cooking in the open kitchen and outside on the monster grill and asado pit, expect fire and flavour in abundance.

Old Gore is a lovingly restored Cotswold stone barn situated just out of Cirencester which has recently been opened and will be hosting weddings, parties and private events throughout all seasons.’

Tickets have completely sold out for Saturday night but there are few remaining tables left for Friday night and Sunday lunchtime. 

Click HERE for tickets.

Click HERE for the menu

Location
Old Gore by Yard Space
Calmsden
Cirencester
GL54 4NW

Today marks six months until The Festival™ returns to Cheltenham Racecourse. 

​Enjoy four incredible action-packed days of racing, featuring 14 Grade One races across four seven-racecards as the best horses, trainers and jockeys go head to head.

This year's festival was dominated by the Irish horses with Rachael Blackmore and Henry De Bromhead, both having unforgettable weeks.

Tickets for The Festival™ are on sale now.

BUY TICKETS

The Times and The Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival 2021 is thrilled to reveal this year’s unmissable full programme of events, setting the scene for an international literary celebration like no other. 

From Friday 8 to Sunday 17 October, the world’s foremost writers, thinkers and performers will descend on the vibrant spa town when the Festival village returns to the heart of regency Cheltenham. 
 
The world’s first literature festival continues to blaze a trail with unique experiences and the unparalleled line-up, announced today, is set to create even more unforgettable memories for book lovers this autumn. Showcasing literary legends, fresh new voices and the biggest books of the year, there is something on offer for everyone: from stars of the stage and screen to incisive political debate. The programme spans history, food, travel, poetry and spoken word, art, sport, faith, philosophy, fashion, psychology, science, nature, business and much more. 

The lively Festival village is the perfect setting for a family day out with a bumper programme of events, free activities, workshops, and story trails featuring the greatest storytellers and illustrators, sure to inspire a love of reading in children of all ages and stages. The Literature for Schools programme, featuring Cheltenham Festival’s flagship education programme Reading Teachers = Reading Pupils, will also give thousands of school children the chance to meet their literary heroes. 

The Festival is harnessing digital technology as part of its drive to create a world in which everyone can explore culture. Cheltenham Festivals’ YouTube channel will broadcast highlights from each day of the Festival, including filmed talks with international writers as part of the Read The World theme. In addition, recordings of over 140 events will be available on demand until 31 December 2021 via the #CheltLitFest Player. 

Charging into its 6th year in Cheltenham, for one night only Lit Crawl sees the town’s bars, record stores, cafes, tattoo parlours and barbershops packed with literary revellers until late into the night sampling everything from flash fiction to ghost stories, music to comedy, pop-up readings to spoken word.
 
An immersive and visually striking new venue and programme lands this October at the Literature Festival. VOICEBOX will bring youth voices to the forefront through a completely free programme of talks, workshops, panels, DJ sets and more, shining a light on the topics and trends that matter to young adults.  Events will feature the best established and emerging local and national young writers, artists and creatives and digital audiences will be encouraged to join in the conversation through the Festival’s social media channels, continuing discussion and debate beyond the 10-day event. 

Booking for the Literature Festival opens to Cheltenham Festivals Members on Friday 3 September and general booking opens on Friday 10 September. 

You can find the full listing HERE.

www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/literature

After an involuntary one-year hiatus, Cheltenham Beer Week returns to the town this month. 

The event starts on Bank Holiday Monday (30th August 2021), running through to 5th September 2021 across many venues around the town and beyond. 

Cheltenham Beer Week will help get the pints pouring again with a number of beer-focussed events hosted at some of the county's  top venues.

In addition, the expertise of nine independent breweries, alongside Brook House Hops, has been enlisted to help produce a limited-edition collaboration beer, ‘New Era ’, a 4.2 % English Summer Ale to be poured exclusively for the week.

With a remarkable number of independent breweries within Gloucestershire, and a great deal of venues that support them, the Cheltenham Beer Festival aims to raise the profile of each and every one and showcase the quality of the Cheltenham and Gloucestershire beer scene, which makes it one of the most desirable locations for beer drinkers around the UK.

The pandemic has brought with it many difficulties for breweries in the county over the last year, but they have all remained resolute in their aim to bring the freshest and best beer they can to the public.

This year, beer drinkers can properly celebrate a return to normality with a selection of events hosted in some of the top venues throughout the county, culminating with 'The Main Event' on 4th September at Stroud Brewery, where guests can join the breweries for a day filled with entertainment, food and, of course, plenty of beer.

The Cheltenham Beer Week will continue to support the National Star College in Ullenwood, who provide education and support for young people with complex disabilities. All profits from the week will be going to them.

For all the information and events during the Cheltenham Beer Week, please visit cheltenhambeerweek.co.uk.

Tickets for Cheltenham Beer Week's ‘Main Event’ are available to purchase here > TicketTailor.

The Times and The Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival is delighted to reveal a selection of early highlights appearing at the world’s oldest literature festival for its highly anticipated return to physical events this autumn. From Friday 8 to Sunday 17 October, the award-winning Festival will welcome audiences to all its venues across the heart of regency Cheltenham, as the vibrant spa town comes alive for a literary celebration like no other.
 
Welcoming over 1000 of the world’s very best writers, thinkers, and performers, the Festival continues to lead the way in showcasing the written and spoken word with something for everyone on this year’s unmissable programme. From the biggest new book releases to up to the minute political debate, there will be events covering history, poetry, art, sport, faith, philosophy, fashion, psychology, science, travel, nature, business and much more, plus a packed family programme that will inspire a love of reading in children of all ages.
 
READ THE WORLD
The Festival’s 3-year theme – Read the World – will showcase the best new voices in fiction and poetry alongside literary greats and high-profile speakers from around the world. The full Read the World programme will be announced in the summer.
 
FICTION
This year’s Fiction programme celebrates the biggest names writing today alongside inspiring new voices winning the hearts of readers. Early highlights include award-winning Maggie O’Farrell, who will reflect on the six books that would accompany her to a desert island; Torrey Peters will be talking to Elizabeth Day about her Women’s Prize-shortlisted Detransition Baby; and Elif Shafak discusses her new novel, which deals with belonging and identity, love, and trauma.
 
Jeanette Winterson will tackle the implications of Artificial Intelligence on the ways we live and love, Colm Tóibín takes audiences on a breath-taking journey through the eyes of the literary titan Thomas Mann, Pulitzer Prize winner Colson Whitehead will discuss his new book Harlem Shuffle as well as the miniseries adaptation of The Underground Railroad, and Guest Curator Bernardine Evaristo will chair a panel featuring Mary Jean Chan, Paul Mendez, Andrew McMillan, and Richard Scott in a celebration of queer writers.
 
For crime aficionados, Pointless star Richard Osman will reflect on the phenomenal success of his debut as well as introducing the Festival audience to The Man Who Died Twice; Mick Herron joins a special event honouring the great John Le Carré to mark his final novel Silverview; Ann Cleeves will discuss the latest in her Two Rivers series, and Robert Peston introduces his explosive new thriller.
 
CLASSIC LITERATURE & MEMOIR
For fans of classic literature, Hamilton’s Giles Terera will explore the linguistic similarities between Shakespeare and Lin-Manuel Miranda; Countdown’s Dictionary Corner doyenne Susie Dent will be sharing a history of the English language, and the mighty Sebastian Faulks joins other writers to reflect on the literary life of Paris.
 
The leading American activist and scholar, Rebecca Solnit, discusses her new book Orwell’s Roses with Deborah Levy, as the two consider how the author influenced their own works. Deborah Levy will also be in conversation with Guest Curator Joan Bakewell about her celebrated trilogy of ‘living autobiographies’.
 
For readers looking to learn more about their favourite writers, Richard Coles will be offering insight into life, death, religion, and community; presenter Anita Rani will recall growing up as a second-generation British Indian woman up north while Nikesh Shukla considers the world into which his young daughter, as a mixed-race girl, is growing.
 
POETRY & OFF THE PAGE
Giving a taster of the Festival’s legendary Poetry & Off the Page events, are the award-winning and bestselling poetry anthologist, Allie Esiri, who will be championing the hidden gems of poetry as well as the much-revered poets who shaped us. The taboo-busting, poetry and prose prodigy Hollie McNish holds up a mirror to our everyday existence, and Dylan Thomas Prize winning Kayo Chingonyi will present his dazzling second collection exploring inheritance.
 
STAGE & SCREEN
Adding some glitz and glamour to this year’s Festival will be the unapologetic Joan Collins giving a glimpse into the pages of her diary, star of the hit TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, Bimini Bon Boulash will offer a behind-the-scenes look into the life of a drag queen, and the trailblazing frontwoman of Skunk Anansie, Skin will reveal what it is like to have been a global female icon over the past 25 years. 
 
Former politician, TV personality and Strictly royalty Ed Balls will reminisce on his early life and love of food, Gyles Brandreth explores his family history against a backdrop of 1950s Britain, comedian Josh Widdicombe will take a trip down memory lane as he recounts the TV shows that shaped his childhood and its wider impact on British culture, and Festival favourite Bob Mortimer returns to discuss his first autobiography, And Away….
 
CURRENT AFFAIRS, SCIENCE, FAITH & PHILOSOPHY
For those wanting to make a difference, Ed Miliband will teach Festival goers how to fix the world, while Amika George – founder of the Free Periods movement – and entrepreneur and youth activist Jeremiah Emmanuel share their Activist Toolkit, and Musa Okwonga opens up about his experience as young black man studying at Eton College. Ruby Wax lifts the spirits and finds the positives in every day, Sarah Sands finds a way to de-stress in the modern age, and Richard Dawkins will share an electrifying celebration of science writing and an essential guide to the most exciting ideas of our time.
 
PSYCHOLOGY
Critically acclaimed actor David Harewood will share his deeply personal, powerful and provocative exploration of race, identity, breakdown and recovery with the Cheltenham audience; Love Island and government ambassador for youth mental health, Dr Alex George will provide an invaluable guide for both physical and mental wellbeing; actor Evanna Lynch will deliver a raw yet intensely thoughtful account of her recovery from anorexia, and Hassan Akkad – Syrian refugee, cleaner and refugee rights activist – will share his journey of hope and connection.
 
FOOD, LIFESTYLE, SPORT & ART
For foodie fans, cookery stylist and writer Anna Jones will reveal how one pan can save the planet, Grace Dent and Katy Wix reflect on the central role of food in our lives and Ravinder Bhogal shares her favourite recipes from an immigrant kitchen.
 
Radio DJ and broadcaster Annie Mac and Candice Brathwaite, founder of Make Motherhood Diverse, share the life lessons they wish they had heard as young girls, and the extraordinary Michael Rosen will offer advice for those navigating the challenges that come when caring for a loved one.   
 
Katy Hessel, art historian and podcaster, participates in a panel of women making waves in the art world to explore the feminist art history revolution in celebration of the 30th anniversary of Linda Nochlin's 'why have there been no great women artists?'; and author and photographer Caleb Azumah Nelson and Charlotte Jansen will share some of the most exciting photographers defining the art form today.
 
Footballing legend Peter Schmeichel relives his career prime at Manchester United, England rugby star James Haskell will share his voyage of self-discovery on retiring from international sport, and boxer and humanitarian Ramla Ali will offer her valuable lessons about what it takes to become a champion.
 
HISTORY & ANCIENT WORLD
History buffs are in for a treat with this year’s Festival with military historian Max Hastings shedding light on Operation Pedestal, Alison Weir will conclude her sweeping Tudor saga with an introduction to the last of Henry VIII’s sextet of wives, Katharine Parr; and Antonia Fraser is in conversation with Allan Mallinson about her new biography on the nineteenth century pioneering women’s rights activist Caroline Norton. Sathnam Sanghera explores the impact of our imperialist history on modern Britain, and Fatima Manji offers a vital new perspective on Britain and the Orient.
 
NATURE, TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE
The original Yorkshire shepherdess Amanda Owen offers a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a farmer in all seasons, and Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and Sam Lee will explore the nightingale in folklore, poetry, and song. Nepalese mountaineer Nimsdai Purja and former Royal Marines sniper turned adventurer Aldo Kane will share their stories of making the impossible possible.
 
FAMILY
This year’s bumper Family programme, invites children and young adults on an unforgettable literary adventure around our own world and beyond. Festival favourite Lenny Henry  unveils his first book for children, Victoria Hislop returns to the Greek setting of her international bestseller The Island in her debut children’s book Marias’ Island and the nation’s favourite storyteller Michael Morpurgo introduces his first new novel in two years, When Fishes Flew.
 
Further highlights include magic, mayhem, and mishaps galore from current Waterstones Children’s Laureate Cressida Cowell and Tom Gates’ creator Liz Pichon.
 
This year, the non-fiction programme is bigger and better than ever, including four special events curated by Guest Curators The Week Junior. Sports icon Clare Balding presents ideas on how to develop resilience  in the face of tough situations; CBeebies presenter Maddie Moate shares some mind-boggling facts about the stuff we use every day; and the original QI Elf, Molly Oldfield will be providing the answers to the most curious questions.
 
Poets and performers pop up across the programme. Word-play maestro Jonny Fluffypunk performs his new show, The End of the Pier Show, complete with poetry, puppetry, story, song, and a healthy dose of ramshackle anarchy; James Mayhew’s musical production Once Upon a Tune tells stories from the orchestra and stand-up poet Joshua Seigal performs from his new collection Yapping Away!. Spoken word poets Tongue Fu and Chris Redmond will showcase the power of poetry and music in the fight against climate change.
 
Little ones will be in for a treat with events from the extraordinarily talented Spanish author-illustrator Anuska Allepuz, Meet the Oceans with Caryl Hart, the award-winning illustrator and designer Dapo Adeola, plus blockbuster Supertato creators Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet will be bringing the laughs with their spooky new read Supertato: Night of the Living Veg. With live drawing, props and live music, author and illustrator of the brilliant Big Bright Feelings series Tom Percival shares the craft of creating picture books and shows that even little people can have big feelings.
 
The Upper World, soon to be a Netflix film produced by and starring Oscar winner Daniel Kaluuya, Alex Wheatle will share his powerful historical novel based on the true stories of the eighteenth-century slave uprising, and Holly Jackson will unveil the final instalment in her killer A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder trilogy.
 
FULL PROGRAMME & BOOKING
The full Festival line-up will be announced on 12 August at cheltenhamfestivals.com. Booking for the Literature Festival opens to Cheltenham Festivals Members on Friday 3 September and general booking opens on 10 September.

The line-up for the 2021 Wilderness Festival was announced this morning. 

Jamie xx, Loyle Carner and Rudimental will headline the festival that takes place at Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire from 5-8 August. 

You can see the full line up and buy tickets on the Wilderness website - www.wildernessfestival.com

Following the fantastically popular 2020 Summer Season, The Luna Drive In Cinema is returning to the stunning Blenheim Palace grounds from the 6th - 24th May.

After spending months inside you’ll be able to enjoy a classic movie on the big screen in a social distanced and safe Drive-In setting in the comfort of your own car.

With state-of-the-art in car speakers and high-definition outdoor screens, you won’t miss a moment of the action – whether that’s Baby and Johnny having the time of their life in Dirty Dancing or going Back to the Future in a DeLorean at 88 miles an hour. You can even treat yourself to delicious hot food on site or pre-order a Luna Hamper jam-packed with tasty retro treats.

Visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/luna-cinema for all the information and click HERE to see the list of films.

The Big Feastival have announced their day breakdown with the confirmed acts, chefs and entertainment so far.

Friday will see Sigala and Sophie Ellis-Bextor headline the main musical stage, with Giz n Green (Chef Gizzi Erskine and musician Professor Green's foodie venture), Theo Randall and Jack Stein all in kitchen.

​Saturday's music headliners include Nile Rodgers & Chic, Zara Larsson and Tom Grennan. Nathan Outlaw and Mark Hix will feature on the feasting side of the festival.

​Rag 'n' Bone Man will close the festival on the Sunday, with Tom Walker and All Saints also appearing on the main stage. 

The Big Feastival will take place from 27 - 29 August 2021 on Alex James' Farm in near Kingham.

Visit thebigfeastival.com for tickets

You can now buy tickets for the Cheltenham Festival that takes place from the 15th to the 18th March 2022.

Enjoy four incredible action-packed days of racing, featuring 14 Grade One races across four seven-racecards as the best horses, trainers and jockeys go head to head.

This year's festival was dominated by the Irish horses with Rachael Blackmore, Henry De Bromhead and Willie Mullins who all had a hugely successful week. 

Visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/the-festival/ to secure your tickets.

The line-up for The Big Feastival was announced this morning. 

The festival, located at Alex James' Farm in Kingham, is now in its 10th year and will boast DJ Sigala, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Rag 'n' Bone Man, Tom Walker and Zara Larsson as its musical headliners. 

The beauty of The Big Feastival is that the food side of things is as good as the music. This year will see two Michelin-starred chef Nathan Outlaw, Tom Brown from Michelin-starred Cornerstone, Mark Hix and Theo Randall all appear in The Big Kitchen. 

As always, there will be an incredible selection of street food on offer too. 

Visit https://thebigfeastival.com/ for tickets.

There will be more live racing on terrestrial TV than ever before this year as it was announced that ITV will be showing six live races every day. 

ITV have been given a one-off permission to extend its output beyond their usual five daily races by rights manager Racecourse Media Group, as it's looking more and more likely that The Festival will be held behind closed doors. This will mean the programme will run from 1pm to 4.30pm and the gap between races will be reduced to 35 minutes from 40 minutes.

There will be new provisional race times too with the first race brought forward to 1.20pm, with the feature each day moving to 3.05pm.