The National Hunt Festival at Cheltenham Racecourse is the highlight of Cheltenham's horse racing calendar, with its importance in British racing, comparable to the World Cup in football. It features the famous Cheltenham Gold Cup, the tradition of which goes back to 1819 and which had its present form since 1924. The four-days of the best steeplechase and hurdle racing attracts thousands of visitors from Ireland, with a strong line-up of Irish horses challenging for the prizes on offer. The 20 races offer in excess of £2 million in prize money.

There are four major Championship races, as well as many Grade 1 contests and Handicaps. On Tuesday the big race is the Smurfit Champion Hurdle. Wednesday's Queen Mother Champion Chase attracts the fastest two-mile chasers. On Thursday it's the Ladbrokes World Hurdle Day and finally, Friday is the spectacular Totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup Day.

Over 50,000 visitors come to each day of the festival (65,000 on the day of the actual Gold Cup) and over £1 m is bet on every race. There is plenty to see and do before the racing starts. You can enjoy The Festival atmosphere, with trade stands, live music and paddock interviews.  MORE PHOTOS  CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL 2009 March 2009  View order of running   View past winners

 HOW TO BOOK

In person at the racecourse, by telephone on 01242 226226, or send a booking form to Advance Bookings at Cheltenham Racecourse address. You can also book online at www.cheltenham.co.uk.

 TICKETS

The Best Mate Enclosure
Great view of racing from the opposite side of the finish line. Harry Ramsden restaurant, betting shops, stands and a beer tent with entertainment provided by live band.

Tattersalls Enclosure
Extensive viewing steps, a betting hall, bars and buffets. You can access the Centaur, paddock and unsaddling enclosure, the Hall of Fame the Gold Cup Restaurant.

Club
Most exclusive enclosure with the best viewing, bars, buffets and betting areas. You can access Tattersalls enclosure, as well as the chalets and boxes in the Tented Village.

Guiness Stand
Large stand opposite the final fence and hurdle and extends the Tattersalls Enclosure with extra viewing steps, bars and bands. You need to buy a Club badge or Tattersalls ticket in order to reach the stand.

Head-On Stand
Seats can be reserved in the uncovered stand in Tattersalls with a great view straight down the course. You will need to buy a Club badge or Tattersalls ticket in order to reach the stand.