The Best Mate Enclosure is Cheltenham Festival’s most welcoming and affordable space, offering racing fans the chance to experience Jump Racing’s premier event without the high costs.

Named after the iconic three-time Gold Cup champion, this enclosure embodies the excitement and energy of the festival while providing some of the best, unobstructed views of the races.

Location and First Impressions

Arriving through the South Entrance, you’ll be directed to the Best Mate gates, located directly opposite the grandstand.

This positioning offers a unique view, one that many experienced racegoers even prefer. As you step inside, the sprawling Cheltenham Racecourse opens up before you, with the famous hill in the distance, forming a natural amphitheater for the thrilling races ahead.

What sets the Best Mate Enclosure apart is its prime viewing spot. Positioned head-on with the home straight, you’ll get an unrivalled view of the final stretch, where the tension is at its peak as horses race toward the finish line.

Atmosphere and Entertainment

The Best Mate Enclosure buzzes with a lively, energetic atmosphere. The ‘Party in the Pavilion’ adds a vibrant layer to the day’s excitement, with live music and DJs ensuring the festival spirit remains high. This social vibe makes it a top choice for younger crowds and groups who want to mix the thrill of racing with plenty of fun.

Where is the Best Mate Enclosure?

2025 Ticket Prices

For 2025, early-bird tickets start at just £37 for the first three days, making it one of the most affordable ways to experience the festival.

Even on the more expensive Gold Cup Day, tickets remain reasonably priced at around £65. This accessible pricing attracts a diverse crowd, from students and casual racegoers to seasoned punters, all united in their love of racing.

Of course, no experience is perfect, and the Best Mate Enclosure has its limitations.

It can get very crowded, queues for bars and toilets can test your patience, particularly during peak times. Additionally, you won’t have access to the Parade Ring or the Shopping Village, which might disappoint some visitors. However, for many, the trade-off is worth it for the atmosphere.

Timing is everything in the Best Mate Enclosure. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot with a clear view and minimises the time spent waiting in queues. The partially covered grandstand offers some protection from the elements, but those areas fill up quickly.

With some restrictions on alcohol service set to ease in 2025, bar congestion should improve, though bringing cash and buying multiple drinks at once remains a smart move.

@raceday.rtv Food, dancing, racing. Best mate enclosure was lively and racegoers were enjoying themselves 🎉 “the party tent” #Raceday #BestmateEnclosure ♬ original sound – Raceday.RTV

Food and Refreshments

There are several food outlets and bars in the enclosure, though options can dwindle as the day progresses. Be prepared for long queues during peak times. The social atmosphere in these areas is part of the charm, with spontaneous celebrations and race discussions adding to the festival experience.

One of the Best Mate Enclosure’s greatest strengths is its inclusive and friendly environment.

Racing knowledge isn’t a prerequisite here—you’ll find everyone from seasoned tipsters to first-time attendees soaking in the excitement. This melting pot of racing enthusiasts creates a fun and engaging space where people are more than happy to share tips, stories, and excitement.

To make the most of your day in the Best Mate Enclosure, it helps to plan ahead. Arrive early, scope out the best viewing spots, and familiarize yourself with the layout of the facilities. The enclosure rewards those who embrace its lively, community-driven spirit, while being aware of its busy nature.

Pros

  • Excellent Views: Offers a prime head-on view down the home straight and a position directly opposite the main grandstand.
  • Value for Money: The most affordable way to experience the Cheltenham Festival, with tremendous value and ticket prices starting as low as £43.
  • Lively Atmosphere: Features a vibrant party environment with live music, DJs, and a social, fun atmosphere ideal for novice racegoers.
  • Modern Facilities: Includes a bright, partially covered grandstand, accessible areas, multiple bars, and a good variety of food options.
  • Top-Class Betting: Well-equipped with betting facilities for those who want to place wagers during the races.

Cons

  • Access Restrictions: No access to key areas like the Pre-Parade and Parade Ring, Shopping Village, or Club/Tattersalls areas.
  • Crowding: Often becomes extremely crowded during peak times, leading to jostling and long queues for facilities like toilets and bars.
  • Service Limitations: Bars can run out of certain drink options, with long queuing times and drinks being relatively expensive for the enclosure’s level.
  • Limited Seating: Not much seating is available, and competition for covered spots is fierce, especially during rain or sun.

Final Thoughts

The Best Mate Enclosure captures the heart of Cheltenham Festival at its most authentic. While it may not have the luxuries of other enclosures, it offers something equally valuable—a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere with unbeatable views of the racing.

For those looking to enjoy the excitement of the festival without the added frills, the Best Mate Enclosure delivers an unforgettable day of racing.

This enclosure may lack the high-end polish of Club or Tattersalls, but it makes up for it with character and accessibility. For first-time visitors or those focused on the racing rather than premium amenities, the Best Mate Enclosure is a fantastic way to experience the magic of Cheltenham Festival.

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