FOR horse racing aficionados and fun-seekers alike, nothing comes close to the Kentucky Derby.
Known as The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports, the day is a riot of colour, noise and Southern charm – that makes even the wildest Gold Cup Day look like a quiet vicarage tea party.
Sign up for the Sport newsletter
Thank you!
The leaders plough through the mud at the Kentucky Derby Credit: Getty
A stunning racegoer shows off her spectacular hat Credit: Reuters
See the Kentucky Derby in 2027
Hosted beneath the iconic Twin Spires of Churchill Downs in Louisville, this isn’t just a race — it’s a bona fide cultural phenomenon.
We are talking 150,000 punters, gallons of bourbon, and the kind of atmosphere you can physically feel rattling your ribs.
Our partners at Racing Breaks have curated the ultimate package for British travellers looking to tick this titan off their list in 2027
This isn’t just a ticket to the stalls; it is a passport to the party of the year.
more sports travel offers
FIT FOR A KING
Royal Ascot from just £169pp including tickets and hotels plus VIP upgrades
DERBY DAY
Live like a VIP at the Epsom Derby with ticket and hotel deals from just £179pp
See the Kentucky Derby in 2027
Picture yourself sipping an ice-cold Mint Julep, decked out in your Jattvibeday best, rubbing shoulders with Hollywood A-listers and American royalty as the thoroughbreds thunder down the dirt track.
The 2026 packages take the hassle out of the haul.
We are talking luxury accommodation in the heart of Bourbon country, and, crucially, those gold-dust tickets to the big dance.
Whether you are a seasoned racing expert studying the form or just there for the hats and the history, this is the pilgrimage every sports fan needs to make once.
A fan with an amazing hat at Churchill Downs Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
Race fans enjoy the unique atmosphere at Churchill Downs Credit: Reuters
Jockey Junior Alvarado celebrates after winning the Kentucky Derby Credit: Getty
Punters get into the party spirit Credit: Reuters
See the Kentucky Derby in 2027
Don’t wait for the odds to drop. Secure your spot at the starting gate now.
It beats a rainy Tuesday in Doncaster hands down.
The track at Churchill Downs turns into a mudbath when it rains Credit: AP
Grandstand & Affirmed Lounge
For those wanting the complete experience, the recommended Grandstand & Affirmed Lounge package is the punter’s choice.
You will secure undercover seats on the third floor with sweeping views of the homestretch, keeping you dry and close to the action.
Off the track, guests gain access to the climate-controlled Affirmed Lounge within the Kentucky Derby Museum.
Millionaires Row Upgrade
If you prefer to do the Derby in true VIP style, the Millionaires Row upgrade is the gold standard.
Located on the prestigious fourth floor, this option offers the ultimate vantage point: a private indoor table and a dedicated balcony directly overlooking the finish line.
It is the perfect spot to watch history unfold in comfort, complete with private wagering stations, chef’s table dining, and top-shelf spirits.
See the Kentucky Derby in 2027
You can also find other travel bargains with our carefully chosen partners in other sports.
We have amazing trips to see the superstars of Real Madrid in their spectacular new Bernabeu stadium.
And we have some great deals to see thrills and spills of the F1 season, including a week-long trip to the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix for the bargain price of just £599 per person.
TOP HORSE RACING TRAVEL DEALS
GET closer to the action in 2026 with these top travel deals.
Our travel partners have a range of trips for all budgets to see the world’s best horse racing.
Check out these amazing deals –
*If you click on a link in this article, we will earn affiliate revenue.
