Image Licensing : Poster for Cheltenham Races, 1936

EDITORS COMMENTS

Step into the past and experience the thrill of the races with this 1936 Cheltenham Races poster from the Steam Museum of the Great Western Railway (GWR). This advertisement invites the public to join the excitement of the Cheltenham Racecourse, an annual event that drew large crowds from across the country. The striking design showcases the elegance and glamour of the racing scene, with a beautifully illustrated horse and jockey in full stride, surrounded by the vibrant colors of the racecourse's grandstand and the rolling hills of the English countryside. The poster's tagline, "Cheltenham Races - March 12th, 13th, 14th & 15th," highlights the four-day event, which was a significant draw for spectators seeking adventure and entertainment. The poster's primary purpose was to encourage the public to travel by train to the Cheltenham Races. The GWR Publicity Department skillfully used events like this to boost train ridership, emphasizing the convenience and affordability of rail travel. The poster's bottom left corner features a map of the United Kingdom, with a red arrow pointing to Cheltenham, and a train route connecting various cities to the racecourse. This visual representation underscores the ease of reaching the event by train, making it an attractive option for those planning their trip. This 1936 Cheltenham Races poster is a testament to the power of advertising and the enduring allure of horse racing. It not only showcases the excitement of the races but also highlights the importance of train travel in connecting people to their favorite events and experiences.