Melbourne Cup Carnival
The Race That Stops a Nation – Elegance, Excitement and Unforgettable Moments.
The Lexus Melbourne Cup is far more than Australia’s most iconic horse race – it is a breathtaking celebration of world-class racing, timeless tradition, and electrifying atmosphere that captivates all who attend. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Melbourne and the historic Flemington Racecourse, this legendary event unites racing enthusiasts from around the globe to witness the “race that stops a nation”.
We design entirely bespoke travel experiences that place you at the heart of every thrilling moment – from exclusive hospitality and official tickets to personalised itineraries and extraordinary extras. This is more than a trip – it’s your front-row seat to one of racing’s greatest spectacles, with every detail crafted around you.
Official Tickets & Hospitality
We only provide official tickets & hospitality to Flemington Racecourse
Exclusive Events
Exclusive invites to the Derby Day Eve Luncheon, Call of the Card Luncheon and other unique events
Bespoke Experiences
Let our team of racing & travel experts build you your perfect itinerary with your choice of hotel, hospitality and more.
On-site Team
You’ll be joined by our team of racing & travel experts who will be on hand to assist you 24/7 to ensure you have the best trip.
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The Melbourne Cup Carnival with Racing Breaks
Melbourne Cup Carnival Experiences
Lexus Melbourne Cup & Howden Victoria Derby Day Experience
from £4,995 per person
Trip Dates: 30th October – 5th November 2026
- Six nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 5* Next Hotel Melbourne
- Welcome dinner & drinks
- Exclusive invite to Derby Day Eve Luncheon & After Party
- Exclusive invite to Call of the Card Luncheon
- Return river cruise on Howden Victoria Derby Day including drinks & nibbles
- Premium Hospitality on Howden Victoria Derby Day
- Return racecourse transfers on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day
- Premium Hospitality on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day
- On-site staff throughout
Melbourne Cup Carnival Experience
from £6,995 per person
Trip Dates: 30th October – 9th November 2026
- Ten nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 5* Next Hotel Melbourne
- Welcome dinner & drinks
- Exclusive invite to Derby Day Eve Luncheon & After Party
- Exclusive invite to Call of the Card Luncheon
- Return river cruise on Howden Victoria Derby Day including drinks & nibbles
- Premium Hospitality on Howden Victoria Derby Day
- Premium Hospitality on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day
- Premium Tickets to both Crown Oaks Day & TAB Champion Stakes Day
- On-site staff throughout
Exclusive Inclusions
Our trip to Melbourne includes more than just a day at the races.
You’ll have access to some of the unique events below!
Derby Day Eve Luncheon & After Party
included in experience
You'll enjoy a drinks reception and 3 course meal alongside a complimentary bar throughout the afternoon. With high-quality racing celebrities and entertainment (in 2024 we were joined by Group 1 winning jockeys Harry Coffey & Ethan Brown), this is a great way to whet the appetite for a cracking week ahead! There is also a great after-party for those looking to kick on into the evening.
Derby Day River Cruise
included in experience
You're in for a real treat as we've hired a boat to transfer us to the racecourse.
You'll enjoy spectacular views with a complimentary bar and canapes throughout the journey whilst you cruise along the Yarra and Maribyrnong Rivers direct to Flemington Racecourse.
Call of the Card Luncheon
included in experience
Enjoy an all-inclusive three course meal with interviews from leading jockeys and trainers. This all precedes a spectacle like no other whereby the country's biggest punters take on the bookies for the following day's Melbourne Cup, staking up to a million dollars per bet!
The Lexus Melbourne Cup is one of the most famous horses races on the planet, dating all the way back to 1861.
It’s the centrepiece of the Victorian Spring Racing Carnival and, of course, the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
It’s also the richest ‘two-mile’ handicap event in the world, with a total prize pool of $8 million.
Howden Victoria Derby Day
The Carnival kicks off with a classic celebration of racing, fashion and tradition. The feature is the Group 1 Howden Victoria Derby for top three‑year‑olds over 2,500 m, supported by other elite contests like the Coolmore Stud Stakes and Empire Rose Stakes, all set against a backdrop of black‑and‑white style, live entertainment and family‑friendly festivities.
Lexus Melbourne Cup Day
The flagship raceday sees the iconic Group 1 Lexus Melbourne Cup over 3,200 m, known as “the race that stops a nation,” where elite stayers battle for one of the richest prizes in world racing. The day combines thrilling on‑track competition with vibrant fashion, hospitality and trackside culture, making it the highlight of the Australian spring carnival.
Crown Oaks Day
A stylish and elegant midweek meeting centred on the Group 1 Crown Oaks over 2,500 m for three‑year‑old fillies. Alongside high‑quality racing, the day delivers a blend of fashion, live music and social experiences, offering a refined yet energetic atmosphere on the Flemington lawn.
TAB Champions Stakes Day
The Carnival concludes with a strong championship programme featuring multiple Group 1 races — including the TAB Champions Stakes (2,000 m), VRC Champions Mile (1,600 m) and VRC Champions Sprint (1,200 m). It’s a thrilling finale that showcases speed and class across distances, capping Cup Week with world‑class racing and celebration.
If required, we can include flights to Melbourne within any of our experiences.
There are connecting flights from most major UK airports with a range of airlines and also one direct flight option with Qantas from London Heathrow.
Extended stopovers are possible for those looking to spend a few nights whilst connecting in locations such as Dubai or Singapore.
Flight upgrades are available to Premium Economy, Business & First Class.
