Savills Portugal

Every March, the internationally revered Cheltenham Festival – dubbed The Greatest Show on Turf – shines a spotlight on the Gloucestershire town.

We helped kick off the festivities on Monday with a fantastic event hosted in partnership with Horse Racing Ireland, drawing a great crowd of owners, trainers and former jockeys. On Wednesday we celebrated legendary trainer Willie Mullins securing 100 wins at Cheltenham – which has never been done before.

Today is the festival’s most iconic event – the prestigious Gold Cup – and this one is particularly special as it marks its 100th anniversary.

From seasoned professionals, equine enthusiasts and racing fanatics, to those who simply enjoy a good festival atmosphere, the annual event brings something for everyone. Cheltenham wouldn’t be Cheltenham without it.

If the pull of the Cheltenham Festival has prompted you to consider a move into the area, here is our guide to the local hotspots – whether you want to be in the thick of the racing action or soak up the scene from further afield.

Hear the roar…

Situated to the north of the town, the racecourse enjoys a scenic spot in a natural amphitheatre below the escarpment of the Cotswold Hills.

South-east of the racecourse, the nearby village of Prestbury is pretty and well-equipped with a number of good pubs and inns. Closer into town, the leafy suburb of Pittville boasts some of Cheltenham’s finest architecture.

To the north of the racecourse, Southam is another hotspot, and further toward Winchcombe, Cleeve Hill is the highest point in Gloucestershire, a beautiful vantage point from which to enjoy the famous roar.

For those who own property in these areas, the opportunity to let their home to festival goers is very tempting – indeed rental income during race week could pay for two good holidays.

Feel the buzz…

A great number of those drawn to Cheltenham for the festival are here for the festivities over and above the racing. The social scene is fantastic, with the town’s already vibrant cafés, bars and restaurants pulling out the stops for the event.

For the best of the buzz, head to areas such as Montpelier, Tivoli, and Imperial and Suffolk Squares, where venues host an array of live music and entertainment.

Soak up the scene…

Professionals and serious racegoers tend to be drawn to the rural communities of Winchcombe, Cirencester and Tewkesbury.

Away from the hubbub, you will find a quieter atmosphere, and an impressive choice of quality country pubs and eateries from which to enjoy some down time between races.

Many of the local residents here are involved in the races, attracted to the area for its year-round sporting lifestyle and facilities.