The bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials Raceday - day 1

Saturday’s card is headlined by the prestigious bet365 Scottish Champion Handicap Chase and the Listed bet365 Scottish Triumph Hurdle Trial, races that regularly unearth stars bound for glory at Cheltenham and Aintree. This is the BIGGEST Cheltenham Trials in Scotland and one of the biggest trials in the UK.

Past renewals have proven their Festival-making credentials, with runners such as Frodon, Seeyouatmidnight, Mighty Thunder and Greanateen and most recently, Thistle Ask going on to shine on the biggest stages. Over the years, Musselburgh has proudly welcomed training powerhouses including Nicky Henderson, Paul Nicholls, Lucinda Russell, Fergal O’Brien and Dan Skelton, underlining the quality and prestige of the meeting.

Adding to the excitement, the raceday will take on a distinctly Irish flavour, celebrating the spirit and heritage synonymous with the Cheltenham Festival. Enjoy the infectious sounds of traditional Irish music from Savage Cabbage of Dougal’s Irish Pub, Portobello, and The Good Roosters from Dropkick Murphys Irish Bar, alongside spontaneous pop-up Irish dance performances around the racecourse, filling the day with colour, rhythm and the unmistakable energy of the Emerald Isle.

NEW for 2026: As the racing concludes, the celebrations continue with an unmissable after-racing party. Join fellow racegoers as the atmosphere ramps up with live music and a vibrant social scene, creating the perfect finale to a thrilling day at the races.

With an electric crowd, an excellent choice of food and drink, and the chance to see the very best of Jump Racing up close, this is a must-attend event for racing fans, where Festival dreams begin and the road to Cheltenham truly comes alive.

• Free car parking is available at Musselburgh Racecourse.

• We're only 6 miles from Edinburgh City Centre with direct transport links and a courtesy bus from Wallyford (connecting to Edinburgh) and NewCraighall (connecting to Galashiels) train stations. 

• Children 17 years and under are admitted FREE at Musselburgh Racecourse, except for New Years Day and Ladies Day, when accompanied by a paying adult. Four children are permitted per paying adult and/or concession. If this event sells out, there will be no child tickets available on the gate on the day.
• Student and concession tickets are available. You must have a valid concession I.D. More information about our concession tickets can be found in our FAQ section, click here. Please note, there will be a price increase for student and concession tickets purchased on the day.
• All timings are provisional and may change. Please keep an eye on our website and social media channels for any changes.
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