🚆🏇 Great Western Railway will run 42 extra trains for the 2026 Cheltenham Festival, offering around 16,000 seats daily to carry up to 55,000 extra racegoers to Gloucestershire. The four-day meeting runs 10–13 March, gates open 10:30, first race 13:20, last 17:20.
Before racing, 20 trains will arrive at Cheltenham Spa, providing over 8,000 seats from London, Bristol and Worcester. Five direct services leave London Paddington after 07:00, arriving 09:31–11:31.
After racing, 22 trains depart from 17:00 with 8,500+ seats. Extra services provide 5,500+ seats to London and additional capacity to Bristol and Worcester.
A queuing system will operate at Cheltenham Spa for shuttle buses and return trains, especially 18:00–20:00. Passengers should buy bus tickets in advance, allow extra time and check the last train home.
https://news.gwr.com/news/train-travel-for-cheltenham-festival-2026