Best Cheltenham Betting Sites 2024
Compare the best Cheltenham betting sites recommended by our experts. Find the latest odds, free bets, and Cheltenham promotions ahead of the next Festival set for Tuesday 11 to Friday 14 March 2025.
Best Cheltenham Betting Sites
- All
- Enhanced Odds
- Live Streaming
- ÂŁ50 Free Bet
- ÂŁ30 Free Bet
- Paypal
Bet ÂŁ10 And Get ÂŁ40 In Free Bets
Bet ÂŁ10 And Get ÂŁ40 In Free Bets
- Cheltenham Champion Chase sponsors in 2025
- Golden Silks deal gives daily horse racing price boost
- Horse racing blog gives punters lowdown on events
Bet ÂŁ10 Get ÂŁ40 in Free Bets
Bet ÂŁ10 Get ÂŁ40 in Free Bets
- Spread betting and fixed odds markets for Cheltenham
- 2nd-to-a-Rag Insurance & Lucky Double Odds
- Pays First Past the Post on Fixed Odds and Spread Bets
Bet ÂŁ10 And Get ÂŁ40 In Bonuses
Bet ÂŁ10 And Get ÂŁ40 In Bonuses
- World's biggest online parimutuel betting site
- Tote Guarantee pays at least SP on win bets
- Stayers Club Perks & Ten to Follow contest with a ÂŁ100k prize pool
Bet ÂŁ10 Get ÂŁ10 Free Bet
Bet ÂŁ10 Get ÂŁ10 Free Bet
- 14 Cheltenham Festival ante post markets
- Regular acca bonuses & other horse racing rewards
- Live streaming for all Cheltenham Festival races
Bet ÂŁ10 Get ÂŁ50 in Free Bets
Bet ÂŁ10 Get ÂŁ50 in Free Bets
- BOG applies after 8am on race days
- Super Extra Place Races & Lucky Bonuses for Cheltenham
- Tricast Winnings Boosts & Money Back to 2nd SP Favourite
Get ÂŁ25 in Free Bets + 10 Free Spins when you bet ÂŁ50
Get ÂŁ25 in Free Bets + 10 Free Spins when you bet ÂŁ50
- Free bet if 2nd to a 20/1 Festival winner
- Offers Cheltenham Festival telephony betting
- 10% to 25% bonuses on Lucky 15s, 31s, & 63s
Bet ÂŁ10 Get ÂŁ20 In Free Bets
Bet ÂŁ10 Get ÂŁ20 In Free Bets
- BOG on singles & multiplies from 8am
- Extra Place Races every day of Festival
- Bet on 16 Cheltenham races ante post
Bet ÂŁ10, Get ÂŁ30 in Free Bets
Bet ÂŁ10, Get ÂŁ30 in Free Bets
- Regular price boosts
- Good number of additional specials
- Efficient mobile app available
Bet ÂŁ10 & Get ÂŁ30 in Free Bets
Bet ÂŁ10 & Get ÂŁ30 in Free Bets
- BOG available from 8am on raceday
- Bet Boosts on selected Cheltenam Festival runners
- Each Way Extra Place Races during Cheltenham
Get up to ÂŁ50 Free Bet + ÂŁ20 Casino Bonus
Get up to ÂŁ50 Free Bet + ÂŁ20 Casino Bonus
- BOG up to ÂŁ250 per Cheltenham event
- 2nd to Fav & Beaten a Length offers
- Ante post betting on 14 Festival races
List of the Best Betting Sites for Cheltenham
Why Trust Cheltenham Betting Sites?
- Comprehensive & honest ratings of UK Cheltenham Festival bookies
- Free insight and analysis for betting on Cheltenham races
- The latest Cheltenham Festival free bets and bonus offers
Reviews of Top Cheltenham Betting Sites
You want the best online betting sites in the game when betting on Cheltenham’s biggest races. Compare our top five bookies to find the best deal for you today.
1. BetMGM
BetMGM isn’t just a top choice for Cheltenham betting – in fact, we consider it one of the best horse racing betting sites overall. Notably, you get excellent odds for the Festival, including 15 competitive ante-post and 16 SP Cheltenham horse racing market prices. As the sponsor of this year’s Queen Mother Champion Steeple Chase, BetMGM is undoubtedly set to make its mark.
Additionally, BetMGM offers a wide range of Cheltenham betting promotions you can use to your advantage. For example, their new customer welcome offer ranks among the very best for the Festival. Moreover, selected customers can benefit from Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG) starting at 11:00 am and enjoy extra places on certain races, providing even more value.
What truly sets BetMGM apart in our list of bookmakers, however, is their Golden Silks promo, which delivers daily profit boosts throughout Cheltenham’s four days. On top of that, they also feature a range of event-specific deals, such as money-back offers. Together, these promotions ensure Cheltenham punters get a fair crack of the whip and plenty of opportunities to maximise their winnings.
What we like:
- Top site for Cheltenham free bets and offers
- Golden Silks and other top horse racing offers
- Huge range of Cheltenham Festival odds for all races
- Great mobile betting app with live streaming
- BetMGM horse racing blog with expert insight from Megan Nicholls
What we don’t:
- BOG for selected customers only starts at 11 am
2. Spreadex
We’ve long admired Spreadex for its standout welcome deal and impressive Cheltenham betting offers. For instance, their 2nd to a Rag Insurance is always a handy promotion to have in your corner. While Spreadex is widely known as the best sports spread betting platform for horse racing enthusiasts, its fixed odds betting prices are equally impressive.
Furthermore, Spreadex covers everything from the Cheltenham Gold Cup to the Novices’ Handicap, ensuring you’ll find top odds and betting features for all your top picks. You can place straight wins, doubles, trebles, Lucky 15s, accumulators, and much more. On top of that, the site’s intuitive layout makes it incredibly easy for horse racing bettors to navigate and find what they need.
Moreover, the team behind Spreadex understands that live streaming for Cheltenham can make or break a betting experience in March. To this end, they offer live streaming for all races directly through their platform without requiring a placed bet. You only need to have a funded account to access this convenient service!
What we like:
- Quality welcome offer for the Cheltenham Festival
- Regular promotions include Lucky Double Odds
- 2nd-to-a-Rag Insurance
- Excellent betting odds for all races
- Spread betting and fixed odds options
What we don’t:
- Only Debit cards accepted
- No BOG
3. Tote
Tote is the world’s largest online pool betting website and an institute of the British horse racing industry. It stands out among the most unique Cheltenham betting sites for horse racing, with tons of parimutuel betting options including Placepot, Scoop 6, Quinellas, and even a Jackpot option.
You will find a wide range of different betting markets for Cheltenham at Tote. Better yet, there are also plenty of Festival promotions that start with an exciting welcome package you can claim. We’re huge fans of the new site design, which makes it even easier to navigate from your desktop or laptop.
One of the most outstanding perks you can get for betting with the site is the Tote Guarantee. This ensures you always get at least SP on win bets – or, if the Tite dividend is greater, you get that. Live streaming on all Cheltenham races is available, as well as a top sign-up bonus and a chance to claim Stayers Club credit throughout the week.
What we like:
- Biggest name in Cheltenham pools betting
- Variety of bets include Win/Place, Exacta, and Quad Pot
- Generous welcome package includes free bets and Tote credit
- Live streaming on all Cheltenham Festival races
- Ten to Follow Jump Season contest with ÂŁ100k prize pool
What we don’t:
- No ante-post markets for Cheltenham
- Pool betting can be overwhelming for new customers
4. Planet Sport Bet
Despite only launching for online bettors in 2021, Planet Sport Bet has quickly become one of our top Cheltenham bookies. You’ll find a wide array of markets and competitive odds for all championship races and other events. Additionally, the site’s user-friendly design makes it easy to navigate through different menus and locate exactly what you need.
Several standout features make Planet Sport Bet worth considering. For starters, new customers signing up through our link can claim a free bet. On top of that, the site offers a live streaming option, allowing you to watch the races unfold in real time. Furthermore, they provide insightful Cheltenham tips and related articles in the lead-up to the event, helping you make informed betting decisions.
Moreover, Planet Sport Bet enhances your betting experience with a 50% bonus on Cheltenham accas, alongside money-back specials throughout the week. Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG) kicks in from 9:00 am, ensuring you get the best returns on your bets. Daily racing specials on selected meetings are also available, likely covering most, if not all, of Cheltenham’s biggest races this year.
What we like:
- Daily racing specials for Cheltenham races
- 14 antepost Cheltenam Festival markets
- BOG from 10 am
- Up to 50% bonus on accas
- Cheltenham Festival live streaming
What we don’t:
- Can only reach customer support by email
- No free bet club
5. Betfred
You always know where you are with Betfred. When the Cheltenham Festival rolls around, the site is packed with free bets and promotions that take some beating. Whether it’s any of their 14 ante-post markets or the SPs, they are well up there with the best online bookie you can bet with this year.
Betfred’s Money Back 2nd to SP Fav is one of our favourite promotions. But we’re also keen on their 10% winnings boost on selected races, which can come in handy. They pay extra places for selected races and offer even more to existing customers.
You get Best Odds Guaranteed from 8 am on race day, which is solid. Betfred is also equipped with a good live streaming service you can use for all races. The site is very well-designed and works great on mobile devices, too.
What we like:
- BOG from 8 am on Race Day
- Fantastic welcome offer for Cheltenham
- Extra Place Races & Money Back as Free Bet deals
- Live streaming for all Cheltenham Festival races
- Lucky Bonus/Multiply Your Odds promotions
What we don’t:
- Website design can feel a little cluttered
- Horse Racing Free Bet if 2nd only applies to selected races
Our Cheltenham Betting Sites Ranking Methodology
Latest Cheltenham Sign-Up Bonuses
Here’s where you’ll find new customer offers from the best Cheltenham bookies. Browse the latest free bets, money-back deals, and other offers for the biggest races at the Festival.
Best Cheltenham Betting Offers
- All
- Enhanced Odds
- Live Streaming
- ÂŁ50 Free Bet
- ÂŁ30 Free Bet
- Paypal
- More Filters
New customers only. 7 days to place qualifying bet of £10+ at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1 x £10 Acca, 1 x £10 Horse Racing, 1 x £10 Football, 1 x £10 Bet Builder. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. <a class="c-link" href="https://www.betmgm.co.uk/auth?intent=signup&wo=sports&provider=USERNAME_PASSWORD#" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-stringify-link="https://www.betmgm.co.uk/auth?intent=signup&wo=sports&provider=USERNAME_PASSWORD#" data-sk="tooltip_parent">Show Terms</a>
18+ <a href="http://begambleaware.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">begambleaware.org</a>. Spread betting losses can exceed deposit. Place a qualifying ÂŁ10 fixed odds bet at odds of 1/2 or greater. Qualifying bet cannot be placed in-play or cashed out early. Free bet stakes not included in any winnings from the free fixed odds bets. Free bets expire in 28 days if unused.
New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £/€10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £/€10 Place). Receive £/€20 Tote Credit, £/€20 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. <a href="https://www.gambleaware.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gambleaware.org</a>. Full T&Cs apply.
18+ New Customers in UK/IE only. Sign up using the promo code <strong>BS10 </strong> and make a minimum deposit of £10. Place a minimum £10 cash bet at odds of Evens (2.0) or greater and receive a £10 Free Bet. Cashed Out or void bets will not qualify for a welcome bonus. Free Bet credits will be subject to an expiry period of 7 days from date of issue. Free bet stakes not included in return. <a class="c-link" href="http://gambleaware.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-stringify-link="http://GambleAware.org" data-sk="tooltip_parent">GambleAware.org</a>, T&Cs apply.
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New UK 18+ customers only. Register with WELCOME50. First bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get Free Bets: £20 In-Play, £20 Acca & 50 x £0.20 (£10) Free Spins on Fishin’ Frenzy within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply.
New customers only, aged 18+. Min deposit £10. Get £25 in Free Bets plus 10 Free Spins when you make a first bet of £50 or more. Your qualifying bet must be placed at odds of 1/1 (2.0) or greater. Free Bets must be placed at odds of 1/2 (1.5) or greater on named sports. Free Spins are valued at 10p and expire in 7 days. <a class="c-link" href="https://promotions.fitzdares.com/bet-50-get-25/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-stringify-link="https://promotions.fitzdares.com/bet-50-get-25/" data-sk="tooltip_parent">Additional T&Cs apply</a>. Please bet responsibly.
*New UK customers (Excluding NI) mobile only. £20 in FREE Bets (FB) as £10 in sports bets & a £10 casino bonus (CB). Min stake £10. Min odds Evs. FB applied on 1st settlement of any qualifying bet. FB 7 day expiry. 1 FB offer per customer, household & IP address only. Payment restrictions. 14 days to accept £10 CB, then active for 3 days. CB 5x wagering & max redeemable £100. Game restrictions apply. Cashed out/Free Bets won’t apply. 30 days to qualify. 18+. T&Cs apply
New cust only. Deposit & Place a Bet within 7 days, and settle a £10 minimum bet at odds of 4/5 (1.8) or greater, to be credited with 3x £10 Free Bets: 1 x £10 Horse Racing, 1 x £10 Free Bet Builder and 1 x £10 Football. 7 day expiry. Stake not returned. 18+. <a class="MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-inherit MuiLink-root MuiLink-underlineAlways css-1ulzz1p" href="https://www.betuk.com/promotions/exclusive-free-bet-offer">T&Cs Apply.</a>
Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply.
New customer only. Get a Free Bet up to ÂŁ50 based on 50% of your first day's losses plus ÂŁ20 Casino Bonus! UK 18+. T&Cs apply.
Deals That Betting Sites with Cheltenham Offers Provide
Cheltenham betting sites provide punters with a wide range of different deals. Here are some you can claim at our top-rated bookies.
New Customer Offers
Free bet offers are a favourite among horse racing punters, especially during Cheltenham. Deals like “Bet £10, Get £50” are widely advertised by top sites for qualifying deposits by cards and other payment options.
You’ll also find bet tokens, money-back offers for new customers, such as 50% back on first-day losses, alongside enhanced odds promotions like 25/1 on a Gold Cup winner paid out as a free bet on a £1 stake.
Best Odds Guaranteed
BOG is a must-have for horse racing punters during Cheltenham. Available at many of our recommended bookies, you’ll get the best starting price (SP) if it’s higher than the odds you initially took. A good rule of thumb for betting purposes is that the earlier BOG is advertised, the better.
Non-Runner No Bet
Non-Runner No Bet (NRNB) is great for peace of mind for certain wagers and ante-post bets. If your horse doesn’t make it to the race, your sports bet stake is returned. Although your bet must meet the bookie’s definition of a non-runner no bet wager.
Extra Place Races
Make the most of extra places in larger races and competitive handicaps with enhanced place terms. Some Cheltenham betting sites offer as high as 7th place with some conditions attached.
Free Bet Clubs
Stake your claim to free bet clubs at our top betting sites for Cheltenham to get your hands on regular promotions and like free bets. Some free bet clubs are better than others, so compare them to find the best deals.
Faller Insurance
Make sure to claim any money-back specials that protect you from falls during races by expert or conditional jockeys. These promos usually pay something back, like your stake, if you meet certain conditions set by the bookie. unexpected outcomes.
Accumulator Bonuses
We love acca bonuses for Cheltenham that offer a nice boost to your winnings if you pull all winners off. Bonuses depend on the size of your bet, paying out a higher percentage for accumulators with more legs.
Odds Boosts
Take a glance over any odds boosts available at the best betting sites for Cheltenham. If activated, these can add a pretty sizable bump to potential returns and are generally available at online horse racing betting sites for the more prestigious races.
More Cheltenham Festival Offers
These are just a handful of the other Cheltenham offer types available ahead of the Festival.
- Money back if beaten by a head or less.
- Cheltenham Gold Cup free bets.
- Daily enhanced odds for selected horses.
- Money-back offers for chosen races.
- Free bets when you place a certain number of Cheltenham wagers.
- Loyalty offers including free bets after the Festival.
- Enhanced each-way or acca terms on select races.
How to Join Betting Sites for Cheltenham
Joining an online betting site for the Cheltenham Festival takes around five minutes or so. You'll need some basic details and a viable payment method to join. Here's what you need to do.
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Sign Up with One or More Cheltenham Betting Sites
Compare odds and bonuses across our recommended betting sites for Cheltenham and click on any of the links to be taken to site. You must provide an email address, username, and password to continue.
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Register Your Details
You'll be asked to provide basic details such as your name, home address, and telephone number.
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Deposit Funds to Your Account
You'll need to add funds to bet with by depositing with a debit card or alternative payment method. Make sure to deposit the minimum required to claim bonuses like free bets, money-back specials, or extra places. Also, check for any payment exclusions and other deposit requirements before you fund your account.
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Claim Your Bonus
Some bookies will automatically add your welcome bonus to your account when you join through any of our links. However, it's always good to double check. Furthermore, any exisiting customer offers like price promises or free bet club deals can be claimed after you join. Again, make sure to check qualifying bet amounts, eligibility restrictions like 7-day expiry, and for any potential wagering requirements.
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Browse Cheltenham Betting Markets & Place Your Bets
Choose the horses or alternative betting options for Cheltenham and add them to your betting slip. You can see your potential winnings by adding a stake to each market you choose. When you're happy with your selections, press the bet button to get them down.
Established Cheltenham Bookies
We can’t discuss the best bookies for the Cheltenham Festival without mentioning some of the top names in the business. Sites like Paddy Power, Betfair, William Hill, Ladbrokes, and Coral are simply synonymous with the sport.
Many of these online bookmakers have longstanding associations with Cheltenham that go back over 100 years. All offer some pretty good extensive Cheltenham promotions like free bets, early ante-post markets, and money-back specials during the jumps season.
You can potentially claim some early NRNB markets on big Festival races from January or February. Wiliam Hill usually rolls out their offer on January 1, so make sure to check this if interested.
Different Markets When Betting on the Cheltenham Festival
You’ll find plenty of different markets when betting on the Cheltenham Festival. Many are unique and offer you the chance to wager on different scenarios that can occur in a race.
Here are some of the most popular markets for Cheltenham to look out for.
Cheltenham Festival Ante-Post Betting
You can bet on Cheltenham ante-post markets well ahead of the races. With the Gold Cup, sometimes even as early as when the current Festival ends. Most bookies, however, may offer prices for other races by the end of the previous year.
The appeal for ante-post markets is often better odds for early bets. However, the risk is losing your stake if your horse doesn’t run.
To Win a Race at Cheltenham
The “To Win a Race” market is the simplest Cheltenham bet – all you need to do is back a horse to win. This means you only have to back a horse and hope it turns up on the day to see a profit.
With odds available for all 28 races, you can bet on favourites in races like the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle or take a chance on a plucky longshot in the Ryanair Chase. If your horse wins, so do you.
Straight Win
A straight win bet is another straightforward way to back a horse, but unlike ante-post betting, it applies after final declarations (typically 24-48 hours before the race). This is crucial to remember.
This gives you added security, as stakes are usually refunded if your horse meets Non-Runner No Bet conditions if you claim that offer. Always check this with your bookie beforehand.
Top 2 / 3 / 4 Finish
Place betting is great if you believe a horse will perform well but might not be strong enough to win. You back it to finish in the top 2, 3, or 4, depending on the race terms. If it places, you win –  if it doesn’t, you lose your stake.
Though the odds are shorter with place bets, they can still be attractive in competitive races. For instance, Eagles Reign finished 2nd at 80/1 in the 2024 Boodles Juvenile Hurdle, which would have paid pretty nicely. It’s an extreme example, but you get the picture.
Each-Way Betting
An each-way bet splits your stake into two equal parts – one for the horse to win and one for it to place. For example, a £10 each-way bet on Ballyburn in the Arkle Chase means £5 goes on the win and £5 on the place.
If the horse wins, both parts pay out. At 10/1 starting price (SP), you’d get £55 from the win (£50 profit + £5 stake) plus place winnings. Place odds are often a fraction of the SP, typically 1/4, depending on the race and number of runners.
Betting Without Market
The W/O (without) market is ideal if you think your horse will beat everyone except the favourite. This market excludes the favourite from the betting pool, offering nicer odds on the remaining runners.
It’s perfect for backing an underdog or when you expect the favourite to dominate but still want a chance to profit. Look for “W/O” in the racecard to identify eligible bets with your online bookie.
Distance Betting
Distance Betting, or Lengthen Your Odds, lets you back short-priced favourites at better odds by predicting their margin of victory. For example, you might bet on a horse to win by 3+ lengths.
Larger margins typically offer higher payouts, though availability varies by race and runners. Some bookmaker markets, like William Hill’s Lengthen Your Odds, split this into separate bets for the winner and the margin.
Match Betting
Match betting lets you wager on which of two horses finishes ahead of the other, regardless of who wins the race. Odds vary based on how evenly matched the horses are.
This market is good for closely contested Cheltenham races where top runners are hard to separate. Given the fierce nature of many of the races over the four days, you’ll often find plenty of opportunities to try the market out.
Forecasts & Tricasts
A forecast bet is a prediction of what the first two finishers are in exact order, offering higher odds than standard win bets. For even more flexibility, try a reverse forecast – this doubles your stake but pays out if your picks finish 1st and 2nd in any order.
Tricasts take it one step further, requiring you to predict the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in exact order, with even greater payouts due to increased difficulty. Combination tricasts, available at top Cheltenham betting sites, cover all finishing orders for three horses.
Cheltenham Festival Specials
These markets are great ways to bet on the achievements of those involved in competing. Here are some of our favourites.
- Top Jockey – Bet on the jockey you think will win the most races across the Cheltenham Festival to claim the Ruby Walsh Trophy. For example, Paul Townend, Jack Kennedy, or Mark Walsh.
- Top Trainer – You can also bet on the trainer who will saddle the highest number of winners at Prestbury Park this year. You may fancy Willie Mullins, Gordon Elliott, or Nicky Henderson.
- Top Owner – Odds for the top owner are also available if you want to wager on whose horses dominate. Expect to see JP McManus as a heavy favourite among other top owners.
- Prestbury Cup – This market is very exciting, as it allows you to bet on a very significant rivalry in horse racing. Will more UK or Irish trainers win more races during the “Olympics of Jump Racing”?
You may find more specials to bet on at Cheltenham, depending on the online sports betting sites you use.
Tote Betting
Unlike fixed odds betting, Tote parimutuel bets pay out dividends instead of set returns. First, deductions are made for the Tote’s operating costs. The remaining pool is divided among the winning units in dividends.
You can bet on the Tote online by visiting the betting site through our links on this page. Here are some available wagers.
- Win – Place a Tote Win bet on a single horse to win the race, starting with a minimum stake of £2. For example, you can back any runner in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir.
- Place – Back a horse to finish in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th in eligible races, with a minimum stake of £2. Place dividends apply when there are 5-7 runners (1-2 places), 8-15 runners in handicaps/non-handicaps (1-2-3), and 16+ in handicaps (1-2-3-4).
- Exacta – A Single Exacta (minimum £2 bet) works like a straight forecast, predicting the first two horses in the correct order. Combination Exacta (reverse forecast) and Banker Exacta (banker forecast) are also available.
- Trifecta – This bet (minimum £2) is a prediction of the top three horses in exact order, with larger dividends possible.
- Swingers – Choose two horses to finish in the leading three positions in any order, with a minimum total spend of £2.
- Jackpot – With a minimum bet of £1, pick the first six winners from that day’s racecard to win a prize.
- Placepot – Bet a minimum of £2 on a horse to place in each of the first six races at a meeting.
- Quadpot – Target the 3rd to 6th races on a Cheltenham Festival card, requiring you to pick a horse to place in each eligible race.
- Scoop 6 – Predict the winners of six designated races, often for substantial prizes.
Effective Cheltenham Betting Strategy
You can’t beat Cheltenham bookmakers without a good betting strategy. At the very least, you should know what you’re doing before parting with your hard-earned cash.
Add these five general tips for Cheltenham Festival races to your strategy for a better crack at winning some money.
1. Study Horse Form and Performance Data
There are lots of free data and stats available to view online before placing your bets. Doing so can help you paint a picture of the best horses for the job. Whether you’re looking to pick the winner of the Gold Cup or Champion Hurdle, look to how runners have performed in races heading up to the festival.
Consider good horses with strong performances in Handicap Steeplechases and other historic races. Weight up how suitable a prospect is when other areas like weather, conditions, and going come into the equation. As each race at the Cheltenham Festival is different, it is crucial to have some idea of any performance issues that may affect your bets.
2. Identify Strong Trainer and Jockey Combinations
In recent years, we’ve seen some of the world’s best trainer-jockey combos find success at the Cheltenham Festival. Horses under premier trainers like Willie Mullins, Nicky Henderson, and Paul Nicholls are often fancied. But with top jockeys like Nico de Boinville and Rachael Blackmore riding them, this can often make the difference.
Galopin Des Champs, trained by Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, stormed to back-to-back victories in the Gold Cup in 2023 and 2024. A feat Mullins and Townend had achieved with Al Boum Photo in 2019 and 2020. Kauto Star claimed the Gold Cup for Paul Nicholls and Ruby Walsh in 2007 and 2009. But perhaps even more impressive was the three-in-a-row Gold Cup assault by Best Mate from 2002-2004 (Jim Culloty and Henrietta Knight).
3. Listen to Cheltenham Betting Experts
There’s nothing wrong with turning to the experts for ideas. You’ll find pundits, bona fide horse fanatics – as well as ex-jockeys and trainers – offering free insight and tips for the Festival. All of which can inspire you toward the best-prepared runners for Cheltenham.
Whether it’s Racing Post staff on why Nico de Boinville looks primed to improve on his excellent records or if Britain can claim the Prestbury Cup by a single race, consider the opinions of horse racing experts. Not all are detailed guides or race previews are guaranteed to be right all the time, but you can fall back on their advice and betting standpoints as and when you want it.
4. Look for Value in Early Cheltenham Odds
You don’t necessarily have to take Cheltenham Festival ante-post betting odds to find early value. While most of the early fancies for the Grade 1 Races will have better odds far out, they may not always represent value for money. In fact, you may find more early appealing prices in other races throughout the Festival.
Securing early value may also give you a little advantage when it comes to backing and laying on exchanges. Sites like Betfair can be utilised to scout and secure nicer prices that don’t carry any bookie profit margins. Instead, you pay a commission for each bet when Cheltenham results come in and bets are settled.
5. Claim the Best Cheltenham Free Bets and Offers
New customer offers and existing deals are only the start when it comes to betting on Cheltenham. This festival creates a huge buzz at online bookies, leading to the big names rolling out tons of offers. Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG), extra place races, money back as a free bet, and cashback are just a few of the offers to consider.
You should also be able to claim multiple offers across different betting sites, as long as they are not related brands or sister sites. Look for deals at Cheltenham betting sites aimed at prestigious races. Also, check out free bet clubs and odds boosts to beef up any potential winnings during the festival.
Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide – Key Stats & Fun Facts
The Cheltenham Festival attracts over 250,000 visitors a year. Its roots can be traced back to 1860, however, with the first running of the National Hunt Chase at Market Harborough. That race was known as the Grand National Hunt Meeting, which was commonly held at Warwick Racecourse.
In 1911, Prestbury Park became the home of the festival with the first ever Stayers’ Hurdle – won by 11/10F Aftermath – taking place a year later. Then, in 1924, Red Splash won the first-ever Cheltenham Gold Cup at odds of 5/1. 1927 saw the Champion Hurdle debut with a win for 11/10F Blaris.
Key Overall Stats
Here’s a quick look at some of the festival’s most significant trainers, owners, and jockeys in Cheltenham history.
- Winningest Cheltenham Festival Horses: Quevega (6), Golden Miller (5), Tiger Roll (5), Arkle (4), Istabraq (4), Big Buck’s (4), Altior (4), Honeysuckle (4).
- Winningest Cheltenham Festival Trainer: Willie Mullins (103 wins).
- Winningest Cheltenham Festival Owner: JP McManus (74 wins).
- Winningest Cheltenham Festival Jockey: Ruby Walsh (59 wins).
- Fastest Cheltenham Gold Cup Win: Long Run in 6 minutes 29.7 seconds (2011).
- Longest Winning Distance in a Gold Cup: Arkle by 30 lengths (1965).
- Most Successful Racehorse Owner at Gold Cup: Dorothy Paget, with 7 wins (including Golden Miller’s 5 consecutive victories from 1932-1936).
- First Female Jockey to Win a Championship Race: Rachael Blackmore, Champion Hurdle (2021).
- Largest Cheltenham Gold Cup Starting Price Winner: Norton’s Coin at 100/1 (1990).
- Highest Attendance: Over 280,000 racegoers across the four-day festival in recent years.
The Irish contingent has a phenomenal track record of success. Names like Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh are recognised around the world for their prolific contributions to the festival.
Key Race Stats
Some names carry more weight when it comes to success at the Cheltenham Festival. Take Willie Mullins, for example, who cracked 100 Festival wins during the 2024 edition of the world’s greatest horse racing spectacle.
| Race | Record Holder | Wins |
| Supreme Novices’ Hurdle | Willie Mullins | 7 |
| Arkle Challenge Trophy | Nicky Henderson | 7 |
| Champion Hurdle | Nicky Henderson | 9 |
| David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle | Willie Mullins | 10 |
| Baring Bingham Novices’ Hurdle | Willie Mullins | 7 |
| Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase | Willie Mullins | 6 |
| Queen Mother Champion Chase | Tom Dreaper, Paul Nicholls, Nicky Henderson | 6 |
| Champion Bumper | Willie Mullins | 13 |
| Ryanair Chase | Willie Mullins | 5 |
| Stayers’ Hurdle | Paul Nicholls | 4 |
| Triumph Hurdle | Nicky Henderson | 7 |
| County Hurdle | Willie Mullins | 7 |
| Cheltenham Gold Cup | Tom Dreaper | 5 |
Most Valuable Cheltenham Races
Everyone knows the Gold Cup as the crown jewel of the Cheltenham Festival. Here’s the prize money paid for the big one and the other valuable races at Cheltenham.
| Race | Prize Money |
| Cheltenham Gold Cup | ÂŁ625,000 |
| Champion Hurdle | ÂŁ465,750 |
| Queen Mother Champion Chase | ÂŁ400,000 |
| Ryanair Chase | ÂŁ388,000 |
| Stayers’ Hurdle | ÂŁ325,000 |
Biggest Starting Prices (SP) for Festival Winners
Norton’s Coin remains the biggest outside win at SP odds. But there have been some other huge outsiders to pick up wins at Cheltenham over the years.
| Horse | SP | Race | Year |
| Norton’s Coin | 100/1 | Cheltenham Gold Cup | 1990 |
| Jeff Kidder | 80/1 | Fred Winter | 2021 |
| Croco Bay | 66/1 | Grand Annual Chase | 2019 |
| It Came To Pass | 66/1 | Festival Hunter Chase | 2020 |
| Premier Magic | 66/1 | Festival Hunter Chase | 2023 |
Prestbury Cup Winners and Dates
2014 saw the Prestbury Cup awarded for the first time, with Britain triumphing over Ireland. Since Britain’s 2nd and last win in 2015, Irish winners have dominated proceedings.
| Year | British Winners | Irish Winners | Prestbury Cup Winner |
| 2014 | 15 | 12 | Britain (1st win) |
| 2015 | 14 | 13 | Britain (2nd win) |
| 2016 | 13 | 15 | Ireland (1st win) |
| 2017 | 9 | 19 | Ireland (2nd win) |
| 2018 | 11 | 17 | Ireland (3rd win) |
| 2019 | 14 | 14 | Draw |
| 2020 | 10 | 17 | Ireland (4th win) |
| 2021 | 5 | 23 | Ireland (5th win) |
| 2022 | 10 | 18 | Ireland (6th win) |
| 2023 | 10 | 18 | Ireland (7th win) |
| 2024 | 9 | 18 | Ireland (8th win) |
Cheltenham Festival Schedule 2025
Here’s the official 2025 Cheltenham Festival schedule for all races.
| Time | Race | Distance | Type |
| 13:20 | Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) | 2m 87y | Hurdle Race |
| 14:00 | Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase (Grade 1) | 1m 7f 199y | Steeplechase |
| 14:40 | Ultima Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) | 3m 1f | Steeplechase |
| 15:20 | David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle (Grade 1) | 2m 3f 200y | Hurdle Race |
| 16:00 | Champion Hurdle (Grade 1) | 2m 87y | Hurdle Race |
| 16:40 | Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) | 2m 87y | Hurdle Race |
| 17:20 | National Hunt Chase (Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase) (0-145) | 3m 5f 201y | Steeplechase |
| Time | Race | Distance | Type |
| 13:20 | Turners Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) | 2m 5f | Hurdle Race |
| 14:00 | Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase (Registered as the Broadway) (Grade 1) | 3m 110y | Steeplechase |
| 14:40 | Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) | 2m 5f | Hurdle Race |
| 15:20 | Glenfarclas Cross Country Limited Handicap Chase | 3m 5f 56y | Steeplechase |
| 16:00 | BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase(Grade 1) | 1m 7f 199y | Steeplechase |
| 16:40 | Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase Challenge Cup (Premier Handicap) | 1m 7f 199y | Steeplechase |
| 17:20 | Weatherbys Champion Bumper (Grade 1) | 2m 87y | NH Flat Race |
| Time | Race | Distance | Type |
| 13:20 | Dawn Run Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2) | 2m 179y | Hurdle Race |
| 14:00 | Jack Richards Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (Grade 2) | 2m 3f 168y | Steeplechase |
| 14:40 | Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) | 2m 7f 213y | Hurdle Race |
| 15:20 | Ryanair Chase (Registered as the Festival Trophy) (Grade 1) | 2m 4f 127y | Steeplechase |
| 16:00 | Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle (Grade 1) | 2m 7f 213y | Hurdle Race |
| 16:40 | Festival Plate Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) | 2m 4f 127y | Steeplechase |
| 17:20 | Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase (Amateur Riders) (0-145) | 3m 2f | Steeplechase |
| Time | Race | Distance | Type |
| 13:20 | JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1) | 2m 179y | Hurdle Race |
| 14:00 | County Hurdle (Premier Handicap) | 2m 179y | Steeplechase |
| 14:40 | Liberthine Mares’ Chase (Grade 2) | 2m 4f | Steeplechase |
| 15:20 | Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) | 2m 7f 213y | Steeplechase |
| 16:00 | Cheltenham Gold Cup (Grade 1) | 3m 2f 70y | Chase |
| 16:40 | Festival Hunters Chase (Amateur Riders) | 3m 2f 70y | Steeplechase |
| 17:20 | Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (0-145) | 2m 4f 56y | Hurdle Race |
What’s New at the Cheltenham Festival in 2025?
Organisers announced changes for 2025 that are aimed at improving the experience and competitiveness of the world-famous Festival. Here’s what you need to know about adjustments to races.
- The Golden Miller Novices’ Chase has been replaced by a Grade 2 Limited Novices’ Handicap Chase.
- Meanwhile, professional jockeys will now compete in the National Hunt Chase instead of the race being restricted to amateur riders. Previously a Grade 2, this now transitions to a novice handicap for horses officially rated up to 145.
- Furthermore, the Cross Country Chase will revert to being a handicap race, bringing it back in line with its original format.
- In contrast, the Dawn Run Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle will now run at level weights, as the penalty structure has been removed entirely.
- On a positive note, Series Qualifier winning horses are guaranteed a spot in the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle, as long as they make the weight at the declaration stage.
- Moreover, entry rules for non-novice handicaps have tightened. Horses will now need four chase runs (previously three) and five hurdle starts (previously four) to qualify.
- Lastly, The Jockey Club has increased prize money by an impressive ÂŁ115,000 across the four days, boosting the total pot to ÂŁ4,930,000 for 2025.
There’s more information about attending the event in the what’s new for 2025 Cheltenham Festival section on The Jockey Club website.
Recent Cheltenham Festival Winners
Here’s a table of recent winners of championship races at the Festival. Some of which may be around to bet on this year at top Cheltenham betting sites.
| Year | Champion Hurdle | Champion Chase | Ryanair Chase | Stayers’ Hurdle | Cheltenham Gold Cup |
| 2024 | State Man | Captain Guinness | Protektorat | Teahupoo | Galopin Des Champs |
| 2023 | Constitution Hill | Energumene | Envoi Allen | Sire Du Berlais | Galopin Des Champs |
| 2022 | Honeysuckle | Energumene | Allaho | Flooring Porter | A Plus Tard |
| 2021 | Honeysuckle | Put The Kettle On | Allaho | Flooring Porter | Minella Indo |
| 2020 | Epatante | Politologue | Min | Lisnagar Oscar | Al Boum Photo |
Recap of the Best Cheltenham Betting Sites
BetMGM tops our list of the best Cheltenham betting sites, beating some stiff competition in the process. Their quality ante-post and SP odds, plus a standout welcome offer and other promotions like Golden Silks profit boosts, seal the deal.
You can claim money-back specials at BetMGM and live stream all races at this year’s Festival. We’re big fans of the mobile version of the site, so make sure to check that out as well.
FAQs
Who are the favourites at Cheltenham?
Early fancies for Cheltenham’s flagship races include Fact to File and Galopin Des Champs for the Gold Cup, Jonbon and Gaelic Warrior for the Queen Mother Champion Chase, and Teahupoo for the Stayers Hurdle. We’ll provide details of more favourites, short-priced runners, and potential dark horses when betting markets open up.
How to bet for Cheltenham successfully?
Research and sound planning are essential for betting on Cheltenham Festival successfully. Study past performances of runners, weigh up best jockey-trainer combos, and consider how conditions may affect races. We also advise finding the best odds at Cheltenham betting sites and using free bets and offers to your advantage.
Which bookies are the best Cheltenham betting sites?
BetMGM, Spreadex, Tote, Planet Sport Bet, Betfred, and Fitzdares feature among our top Cheltenham betting sites. You’ll also find the likes of Betfair, Paddy Power, and William Hill offering good Festival-specific promotions and odds.
Where can I watch the Cheltenham Festival?
You can watch the Cheltenham Festival on ITV Racing and Racing TV. Both channels are scheduled to cover all 28 races across the four days live. Alternatively, you can watch races on suitable Cheltenham betting sites offering live-streaming services.
What is the best race at Cheltenham?
The Gold Cup is considered the world’s greatest steeplechase event anywhere in the world and is widely regarded as Cheltenham’s crown jewel. Other major highlights of the festival include the Queen Mother Champion Chase, Stayers' Hurdle, Champion Hurdle, and other events that showcase a mix of the best horses, top-tier conditional jockeys, and potential future stars of the sport.
How many races are there during the Cheltenham Festival?
There are a total of 28 races – including championship races and competitive handicaps – run over four days at the Cheltenham Festival in March.