Despite rain and gusting winds, the fashionably fearless flocked to Cheltenham Racecourse for the third day of the four-day festival.
Umbrellas were the essential accessory as downpours swept across Gloucestershire, yet that didn’t stop stylish attendees from putting their best foot forward.
Some daring racegoers went bare-legged in heeled boots, while others struggled to keep their ornate hats and fascinators from flying away.
The damp didn’t dampen spirits.
Female punters wrapped up in fur-lined coats and tweed jackets, pairing chic fedoras with their ensembles.
Spring may be approaching, but the festival’s party atmosphere was in full swing on what’s known as St Patrick’s Thursday, signalling the unofficial start of Britain’s social season.
Fashion Takes Center Stage Alongside the Horses
Cheltenham is as much about style as it is about racing, and today’s attendees didn’t disappoint.
Statement suits, tartan jackets, and knee-high boots dominated the scene.
British designer Jade Holland Cooper stunned in a check longline coat of her own design, cinched at the waist to create a flattering silhouette.
She completed the look with burgundy boots and a matching clutch, cementing her status as a festival fashion highlight.
Men also made bold choices, with brightly coloured suits turning heads as punters gathered around large screens to follow the races.
Drinks flowed freely, and the excitement for the first race, kicking off just after 1pm, was palpable.
Cheaper Drinks Lure Punters Back
This year, festival organisers made a conscious effort to address previous attendance dips by reducing drink prices.
A pint of Guinness now costs £7.50, down from £7.80 in 2025, while a half-pint is £3.75. Single pours of gin, vodka, and rum were also reduced by 20p.
Attendance has been a growing concern: in 2025, 218,839 people attended Prestbury Park over four days—a drop of over 10,000 from the previous year.
Last year’s Ladies Day drew just 41,941, marking the lowest single-day turnout in 25 years.
Rising costs of enjoying the festival, including drink prices, were blamed for the dip.
By making beverages more affordable, organisers hope to draw crowds back.
Race Highlights: Day Three
Racing action resumed at 1.20pm with the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle, keeping punters glued to the track and large screens.
Enthusiasm was high, and the social energy matched the competitive spirit on the course.
Impact and Consequences
The combination of cheaper drinks and festive fashion helps Cheltenham maintain its dual identity as both a sporting and social highlight.
Lower prices may boost attendance and restore the festival’s reputation for accessibility, potentially stabilising revenue streams that dipped in recent years.
However, extreme weather like today’s heavy rain and wind poses challenges for organisers and punters alike.
Expensive outfits and delicate headpieces face risks, and racing conditions could be affected if the weather persists.
What’s Next?
The festival continues over the weekend, with racing and social events scheduled to keep the momentum going.
Fans can expect more stylish parades along the racecourse, competitive betting, and, hopefully, sunnier skies.
Organisers may continue fine-tuning pricing strategies to attract younger audiences and first-time visitors.
Summary
Cheltenham’s third day was a vivid mix of fashion, festivities, and racing drama.
Rain and wind tested the dedication of stylish revellers, but spirits remained high.
Cheaper drinks aimed to boost attendance, and designers like Jade Holland Cooper stole the show.
With the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle underway, the festival promises more excitement over the coming days.
Bulleted Takeaways
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Rain and wind couldn’t stop fashion-focused attendees from attending Day Three of Cheltenham.
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Female punters rocked fur-lined coats, tweed jackets, and chic fedoras; men opted for bright, statement suits.
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Designer Jade Holland Cooper showcased a standout check longline coat, completing the ensemble with matching boots and clutch.
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Festival organisers reduced drink prices to attract crowds after 2025 saw attendance decline.
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Races resumed at 1.20pm with the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle, keeping fans engaged.
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Lower drink prices may stabilise attendance and revenue, while weather remains an ongoing challenge.
