Why Racing Fans Are Choosing Benidorm Over Cheltenham
British horseracing enthusiasts are abandoning muddy racecourses in favor of Spanish sunshine, as innovative travel packages offer a cheaper and more comfortable alternative to attending prestigious racing festivals in person.
The Rise of Racing Tourism
Travel company On The Beach has identified a growing trend among racing fans who are opting to watch events like the Cheltenham Festival and Grand National from Benidorm rather than braving the elements at Aintree or Cheltenham Racecourse.
With ticket prices reaching £200 for entry to Cheltenham Festival, return train tickets from London costing approximately £70, and notoriously unpredictable British weather, the Spanish alternative has become increasingly attractive.
Cost Comparison
The numbers are compelling. A five-night stay at a four-star all-inclusive hotel in Benidorm, complete with return flights and giant screens showing the racing, starts from £330 per person. This package includes unlimited drinks and accommodation.
By contrast, the same £330 at Cheltenham would only cover entry to four racing days, two pints daily, and no accommodation, transport or food.
Caspar Nelson, holiday expert at On The Beach, explained the logic behind the trend.
"When the choice is soggy tweed, 10 degrees and sideways rain at Aintree, or the Grand National poolside in Benidorm with 23-degree sunshine, it's not exactly a tough call."
Real Experiences
The concept has attracted dedicated racing fans. Ian, 68, from Edinburgh, has attended Aintree for the Grand National for 16 consecutive years but has chosen "Cheltenham in Benidorm" for the past four years.
Keith Knight, 75, travelled with his family from Enfield for their first Benidorm racing experience. Despite the weather turning wet during their visit, he remained positive about the value proposition.
Niki and Bill from Kent upgraded their package to seven nights at £700 each. Niki estimated that attending Cheltenham for four days would have cost £2,000 for both of them, excluding accommodation and spending money.
The Benidorm Setup
Hotels like Villa Espana have installed giant screens at rooftop bars, creating a social atmosphere where fans can watch the races together. Bars across Benidorm have followed suit, erecting screens for racing enthusiasts.
Brad, 35, a builder from Essex, travelled independently with 15 to 20 friends. He spent £230 on flights and hotel for four nights, noting that a round of 15 pints costs approximately £43, roughly half UK prices.
For some, the experience has proven lucrative. Patrick, 71, from County Fermanagh, won more than £20,000 across four bets during his visit.
Practical Information
Five-night getaways staying at a four-star all-inclusive hotel with flights start from £330 per person through On The Beach. The packages include giant screen viewing of major racing events.
