Racegoers left frothing over the cost of a pint at the prestigious horse racing event

The Cheltenham Festival, renowned as the “Greatest Show on Turf,” has once again become the talk of the town, but this time it’s not just the horses causing a stir. The event’s eye-watering drink prices have left many racegoers feeling more than a little short-changed.

With an estimated 220,000 pints of Guinness expected to be consumed over the four-day festival, attendees were shocked to discover that the cost of their beloved dark brew has remained at a lofty £7.50 per pint, matching last year’s high. The same price tag applies to a variety of other drinks, including Draught Atlantic Pale Ale, Aspall Suffolk Cyder, and Madri Lager. Spirits are also steep, with a 25ml measure of whisky, vodka, or gin priced at £7, and premium spirits like Jameson Irish Whiskey and Cognac VS costing £7.50.

The cost of non-alcoholic beverages and food hasn’t escaped the inflation either. A can of non-alcoholic Guinness is priced at £6.75, while a glass of house wine will set punters back by £9.70. Even soft drinks and mineral water come with a hefty price tag, with a 330ml can of soda costing £3 and a can of still mineral water priced at £2.40.

Racegoers have taken to social media to express their dismay at the prices, with one attendee remarking, “Anybody that goes to Cheltenham and pays 7.50 a pint needs to give their head a shake.” Another added, “Poor from Cheltenham. For the price of a pint of Guinness and a burger, they could have put a roof over the track.”

Despite the grumbles, the Cheltenham Festival continues to draw crowds, with thousands flocking to witness the spectacle of horse racing. However, the steep prices have certainly given attendees something to think about, as they weigh up the cost of indulging in a pint or two while enjoying the races.

As the festival gallops on, it remains to be seen whether the outcry over drink prices will lead to any changes in the future. For now, racegoers will have to decide whether to shell out for their favourite beverages or keep their wallets firmly closed.