Race days are some of the most glamorous events of the year. After all that effort, a relaxing place to get some touch-ups is definitely a welcome addition to any lengthy day out. Lauren Kate Hughes checked out the Debenhams Day Spa at Cheltenham Races and indulged in a little R&R between bets.

Cue Debenhams and the Debenhams Day Spa, a relaxing haven with fluffy seats and kitsch vanity mirrors amidst the chaos of the races. Oh, and a cocktail bar is conveniently located just next door. And the best part? It’s free for racegoers.

Hair tools and makeup stations are on offer, so you can do a DIY mini skincare routine and makeup session if needed. Beauty tools are on hand if you need to tweak your hairstyle, too, as well as products like hairspray and smoothing oil to make touching up a little bit easier.

The clothing giant has teamed up with the Jockey Club to debut the pop-up at Cheltenham Races, but it will also appear at other race meetings throughout the summer, including Ladies’ Day at Epsom Downs in June and The Coral Eclipse Meeting in July.

Debenhams has an incredible beauty offering, with the likes of L’Oréal Luxe- Lancome, YSL,
Prada, Armani, and Viktor + Rolf are on the books. The interactive beauty bars use the hero ranges, with hair and makeup bars and a section where you can top up fragrances.

We enjoyed a glass of English sparkling wine while sitting in the warmth of the day spa pop-up – handy, as the March weather isn’t the most predictable. The Day Sap is located in The Orchard, an exclusive area in Cheltenham.

The Orchard is available to Cheltenham’s Annual Members, owners, and trainers, hospitality clients, Club Enclosure badge holders and invited celebrity guests. It’s a relaxed area with some lovely outlets to explore; it’s a lot calmer than the nearby Guinness tent.

The Orchard’s Gaucho pop-up is well worth a visit for lunch. Its decadent two-course menu includes signature steaks and starters like lime-infused ceviche, burrata, and heritage tomatoes; honestly, you’ll think you’re in the restaurant.

There are makeup artists on hand who can offer personalised touch-ups while you sip on a glass of bubbles. Hair stylists can also refresh your look and add waves and texture — a game-changer for rainy days.

This new initiative is part of an exclusive two-year partnership with The Jockey Club, which will see the day spa tour the country. As its newest Associate Partner, Debenhams will deliver immersive race-day beauty experiences at some of the most prestigious fixtures on the racing calendar from 2025 to 2026.

Where you can experience the Debenhams Day Spa in 2025

• The Cheltenham Festival (15–18 March)
• The Derby Festival (7–8 June)
• The Coral Eclipse Meeting (5–6 July)
• The Debenhams July Festival (12–14 July)

Dan Finley, CEO at Debenhams, said of the partnership, “Horse racing embodies elegance, excitement and unforgettable memories – values that align perfectly with our ethos at Debenhams.

“The partnership is a celebration of British heritage, blending the glamour of beauty with the timeless allure of racing. Our Debenhams’ Day Spas will offer racegoers an irresistible opportunity to unwind, indulge and feel their very best throughout the day.” 

Jack Royle, Head of Partnerships and Sales at The Jockey Club, said, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome  Debenhams to The Jockey Club family as an Associate Partner.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to offering memorable experiences for racegoers, blending the excitement of racing with style and first-class service. 

“Debenhams will play a key role in enriching the fan experience – whether through digital channels in the build-up to race days or immersive activations at our most iconic events.”

You can find out more about the Cheltenham Festival and other events at Cheltenham Racecourse on the Jockey Club Website.