Badminton Horse Trials
Badminton Horse Trials is a three-day eventing competition that takes place annually in early May in the grounds of Badminton House, located in South Gloucestershire, England. The event is one of the most prestigious and challenging equestrian events in the world, attracting the top riders and horses from around the globe.
The competition consists of dressage, cross-country and show jumping phases. The dressage phase involves the horse and rider performing a series of intricate movements in a 20m x 60m arena. The cross-country phase is held over a challenging course of natural obstacles, such as ditches, banks, and water jumps, and tests the horse and rider's speed, endurance, and jumping ability. The show jumping phase is held in a large arena and tests the horse and rider's precision and agility.
Badminton Horse Trials has a long and rich history, dating back to 1949 when it was first held. The event was created by the 10th Duke of Beaufort, who was a keen horseman and wanted to create a challenging and prestigious competition for event riders. Since then, the event has become a highlight of the equestrian calendar and has been won by some of the greatest riders in the sport, including Mark Todd, Lucinda Green, and Pippa Funnell.
In addition to the competition, Badminton Horse Trials also offers a range of entertainment and activities for visitors, including shopping, food and drink stalls, and displays from other equestrian disciplines. The event attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year and is a must-visit for any horse enthusiast.
The Cotswolds Retreats are a perfect based from which to travel back and forward to the Badminton Horse trial which are held this year between 4th and 8th May.
