Cheltenham Free Bets 2026

The Bookmakers with the best free bets and sign-up offers for the Cheltenham Festival 2026

The leading online bookmakers typically offer fantastic Cheltenham free bet offers for the Cheltenham Festival and this year’s jumps showpiece is no different. Stay in the know and explore the latest exclusive promotions from the top UK bookmakers this year.

Get the latest Cheltenham Festival 2026 free bets and top bookmaker offers right here – all refreshed daily for up-to-date deals from the biggest UK bookies. We find the most valuable new-customer promos, free bets, matched-bet bonuses and ongoing racing incentives available now, including exclusive sign-up offers and Cheltenham-specific boosts you won’t easily find elsewhere.

Top Cheltenham Betting Offers

Below, we have compiled the top Cheltenham betting offers for you. Cheltenham betting offers provide a gateway to exciting opportunities and possibilities. So whether you’re a seasoned punter or a curious newcomer, explore some of the most enticing Cheltenham betting offers:

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What is a Cheltenham free bet? 

A Cheltenham free bet is a bookmaker promotion offered in the build-up to, and throughout, the Cheltenham Festival, allowing customers to place bets using a complimentary stake. These offers are most commonly aimed at new customers, although existing account holders may also see Cheltenham-specific incentives during Festival week. Bookmakers regularly run Cheltenham sign-up deals, giving punters the chance to bet on Festival races without risking additional funds. Any winnings generated from a free bet are usually paid out as withdrawable cash, although the original free bet stake itself is not returned.

How does a Cheltenham free bet work?

A Cheltenham free bet works by allowing bettors to place a bet on a Cheltenham Festival race. Bookmakers offer these promotional bets as an incentive to attract or reward customers. Typically, to redeem a Cheltenham free bet, users need to meet certain criteria, such as making a qualifying deposit or placing a specific type of bet. If the free bet is a winner, you are usually paid out in real money, with the initial free bet amount excluded.

For example, if you placed a £10 Free Bet on Galopin De Champs to win the Gold Cup at odds of 6/1, it would return £60 in withdrawable cash, rather than £70 (stake included) if it was a standard bet you placed with cash.

Cheltenham sign-up offers and new customer offers

Cheltenham sign-up offers are bookmaker incentives designed specifically for customers opening an account for the first time. These promotions often include Cheltenham free bets, enhanced odds, matched-bet deals or deposit-based bonuses, many of which are tailored around the Festival. To claim a new customer offer, you will usually need to complete the registration process, place a qualifying bet and comply with the bookmaker’s terms and conditions. These promotions are intended to introduce new users to Cheltenham betting while adding extra value and excitement to their first Festival experience. These promotions aim to provide an introduction to Cheltenham betting for newcomers, adding excitement and value to their initial betting experience.

Here are some of the Cheltenham new customer offers listed below:

Different Types of Cheltenham Free Bets:

There is a range of 2026 Cheltenham free bets regularly offered by bookmakers, each with its unique characteristics. The most common types include:

• Matched Free Bets: The bookmaker matches the initial deposit or qualifying bet with a free bet of the same value.
• No Deposit Free Bets: Punters get free bets to use but don’t have to make an initial deposit, providing a risk-free opportunity.
• Risk-Free Bets: If the bet is a loser, the bookmaker refunds the stake in the form of a free bet up to a certain amount.
• Enhanced Odds Offers: Bookmakers boost the odds on specific horses or events, providing a higher return in winnings. These are usually capped at a smaller maximum bet up to around £10.
• Deposit Bonuses: Instead of free bets, bookmakers offer a bonus amount based on the initial deposit, which can be used for Cheltenham betting.

Specials: If a specific outcome occurs (e.g., a horse is beaten by a neck or less ), the bookmaker refunds the stake as a free bet or in some cases pays as a winner.

Understanding the terms and conditions associated with each type is crucial in maximising the benefits of the Cheltenham free bets on offer.

What can you use your Cheltenham free bets on?

Cheltenham free bets are typically specified by the bookmaker offering the promotion and are subject to certain terms and conditions. However, in general, Cheltenham free bets can be used on a variety of betting markets related to the Cheltenham Festival. These may include:

• Cheltenham Races: Free bets can often be applied to bets on specific races during the Cheltenham Festival.
• Ante-Post Betting: Some bookmakers allow free bets for ante-post betting, where you can bet on Cheltenham months before the races.
• Special Markets: Depending on the bookmaker, free bets may be applicable to special markets, such as top jockey, top trainer, or other festival-related markets such as the Prestbury Cup.
• Specific Events, Races or Days: Free bets might be designated for use on particular days or races within the Cheltenham Festival.

It’s important to read the terms and conditions of each Cheltenham free bet offer to understand any restrictions. Some bonuses could have specific requirements or limitations, so punters should be aware of these conditions to make the most of the promotional offer.

Can you withdraw Cheltenham Free Bets?

For the most part, Cheltenham free bets cannot be directly withdrawn as cash. They are typically provided by bookmakers as promotional credits to be used for betting purposes. However, any winnings generated from the use of Cheltenham betting offers are usually withdrawable as real cash, subject to certain terms and conditions.

How to use your Cheltenham Festival Free Bets

If you want to bet on the 2026 Cheltenham Festival using your free bets, it’s a simple process, but it’s important to follow the guidelines provided by the bookmaker offering the promotion. Here’s a general step-by-step guide:

1. Qualification: Once you have registered through a promotional link, such as those found on this page, and then meet the qualifying criteria outlined by the bookmaker to qualify for the Cheltenham free bets. This could include making a qualifying deposit, placing a specific bet, or using a special promo code.
2. Redeeming the Cheltenham Free Bets: Once you’ve met the requirements, the bookmaker will credit your account with the Cheltenham free bets. This credit may be in the form of a specific amount or a matched value, depending on your qualifying bet or deposit.
3. Selecting Your Bet: Navigate to the Cheltenham Festival section or the specific race/event eligible for the Cheltenham betting offers. Choose the race and selection you want to bet on.
4. Applying the Cheltenham Free Bet: During the betting process, you’ll likely have the option to use apply Cheltenham free bet. This is usually indicated in the betting slip or during the final stages of confirming your bet.
5. Placing the Bet: Confirm your bet with the Cheltenham free bet applied. Ensure that you are abiding by any minimum odds or market restrictions specified in the terms and conditions.
6. Monitoring Results: Keep track of your bet and enjoy the Cheltenham Festival action. If your Cheltenham free bet is successful, any winnings, excluding the initial free bet amount, will usually be credited to your account.
7. Withdrawing Winnings: Once the winnings are credited, you can typically withdraw them as real cash, subject to any additional betting or turnover requirements specified by the bookmaker.

Always read and understand the terms and conditions associated with Cheltenham free bets to maximise your enjoyment and potential winnings during the festival.

What should you look for when choosing your Cheltenham free bet?

When selecting your free bet for the Cheltenham spectacular, it’s important to consider several factors to maximise the value and enjoyment. Here are key aspects and instructions to look for when deciding on which Cheltenham free be bet offer is best for you:

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing your Cheltenham free bet, enhancing your overall betting experience during the Cheltenham Festival 2026.