Discover the Magic of Cheltenham Travel Festival

Cheltenham is widely known for its grace, heritage, and beautiful Regency architecture, but on 21 February 2026, it’s about to become a travel lover’s paradise. The Cheltenham Travel Festival is coming to the racecourse, and it’s not your typical travel fair. With free expert talks, immersive photography, and over 40 exhibitors, it’s your chance to be inspired, learn, and plan your next adventure.

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What Is the Cheltenham Travel Festival?

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• Date & Venue: Saturday, 21st February 2026, 10am–4pm, at Cheltenham Racecourse.
  
  
• Entry: Fully free, but ticketed – so book early to guarantee your place.
  
  
• Why It’s Unique: It’s more than just a travel exhibition. Expect:
  
  
  
  • Inspirational travel talks from leading voices in adventure, culture, and sustainable tourism.
    
    
  • A World Travel Photography Awards Gallery, curated by JRNY Travel Magazine, a chance to be visually inspired and pick up photographic tips.
    
    
  • One-on-one access to travel experts, from safari specialists to small-ship cruising pros.
    
    
  • Exclusive festival deals & giveaways, special offers you’ll only find at the event.
    
    

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5 Reasons to Attend

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1. Get Real Travel Advice from Experts
   Whether your dream trip involves trekking in the mountains or cruising glacial waters, the Cheltenham Travel Festival brings together a diverse group of travel professionals who share first-hand knowledge.
   
   
2. Be Inspired by Stunning Photography
   The photography gallery features winners from the World Travel Photography Awards. You’ll not only admire incredible images but also learn how to improve your own travel photography.
   
   
3. Enter Competitions & Win Prizes
   Participating exhibitors are offering giveaways, think free holidays, travel subscriptions, or even luxury hampers. It’s a fun way to potentially scoop something amazing.
   
   
4. Take Advantage of One-Day Deals
   Many tour operators will run festival-only offers, saving money on future trips booked at the event.
   
   
5. It’s Family Friendly & Accessible
   Children under 16 go for free, and the venue (Cheltenham Racecourse) has accessibility options for those who need it. Plus, with food and drink on-site, you can easily make a day of it.
   
   

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Spotlight on Speakers & Sessions

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Some of the headline speakers include: Hilary Bradt, Carolyn Boyd, Mark Cummings, Andrew Morris, Jarrod Kyte, and more.
Expect sessions on topics such as:

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• Cruising with a difference
  
• Train journeys across the world
  
• Sustainable travel and low-impact tourism
  
• Adventure travel: safaris, hiking, cycling
  
• Travel photography masterclasses
  
  

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How to Plan Your Visit

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• Book Your Ticket Early: Though free, places are limited and it's first-come, first-served. 
• Getting There: Cheltenham Racecourse is accessible via train, with local transport options. thejockeyclub.co.uk
  
• Food & Drink: A pop-up café will serve hot/cold drinks and light snacks at the venue.
  
• Accessibility: If you need a wheelchair, it’s advised to hire one in advance.
  
• Plan Your Day: Map out talks you definitely want to hear, then leave time to browse the exhibitors, some have exclusive deals.
  
  

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Featured Exhibitors & Highlights

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More than 40 exhibitors will be present, covering a broad spectrum of travel:

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• Adventure tour operators
  
• Luxury and small-ship cruisers
  
• Wildlife and safari experts
  
• City break and culture-focused brands
  
• Hiking, cycling, and walking holiday specialists
  
  

Also, don’t miss the Cheltenham Travel Festival Photo Competition, open to Cotswolds residents, beginner to pro levels. 

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Why Cheltenham?

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Cheltenham isn’t just a pretty backdrop, it’s steeped in culture and easily accessible. Hosting the festival at the Cheltenham Racecourse gives a grand yet welcoming feel, combining the elegance of the town with an event that encourages exploration and discovery. 

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For all the latest on what’s happening in the Cotswolds, check out What’sOn?XL in CotswoldXL Magazine.

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