The 76th Annual Badminton Horse Trials
The prestigious Badminton Horse Trials is just around the corner and will be celebrating their 76th anniversary. We are excited to see you all again this year at our SPILLERS trade stand, situated across from the score board.
I’ll be attending for possibly my 15th time. Having groomed, spectated, shopped, fangirled and worked at Badminton for SPILLERS on the trade stand and in the historic stables. I thought I’d share some top tips and highlights for anyone thinking of going this year.
Favourite memories:
La Biosthetique Sam – in my opinion is probably the best event horse of his generation! I was that 13-year-old, horse mad girl again watching ‘Sam’ snoozing under the sunshine of the incredible Badminton stable block, while having his hoof oil brushed on. The ultimate cool professional athlete seemed so laid back but watching him go cross country was an alter ego!
Favourite fence to watch cross-country:
The Lake is always entertaining but the real action these days happens on the far end of the course along the Vicarage Ditch. Depending on the exact route the course takes you can see four or five super technical fences and grab yourself some strawberries and cream too!
Shopping:
Looking for an eco-hot tub for the garden or need a new lead rope? You’ll find both at Badminton! If you’re planning to shop then I’d recommend a weekday when you’ll find it far more relaxing, fun and successful. Saturday’s cross country can be wonderfully chaotic – aka heaving. Carrying bags through thick crowds is not an easy task, but if you’re only going on Saturday then get there early and have a plan of action. Once cross country starts (usually around 11.30am), the crowds disperse out into the park, so if you’re not fussed about watching the action on course it’s a better time to get your shopping fix.
Feeling hungry:
Where to start!?! The food choices are incredible. I highly recommend the food hall on the west side of the trade stands. Here you’ll find more rural food suppliers mixed in with sweet treats, olives galore, fancy cheese and posh coffee to keep you going. However, across the site you’ll find plenty of great quality stores selling a huge variety of tasty treats.
Water:
There are hydration stations dotted around the park, complete with automatic dog water bowls, so don’t forget to take your reusable bottles to stay hydrated in the hopes we get some lovely spring sun!
Must do:
If you’re there earlier or later on in the day, you’ll usually find some of the superstars grazing on the lawn outside the front of the main house. Don’t get too close, but it’s a lovely way to see some of the wonderful horses and be a fangirl/ boy.
Staying over?
The glamping and camping options mean more people can enjoy the evening entertainment. Don’t forget to head to the bars if you’re up for a party, you might just get to throw some shapes next to your eventing idol on the Saturday night!
More to see:
Badminton Horse Trials has always catered to everyone, and this year is no exception. The week is jam packed full of lots of exciting things to do and see to keep you and your family entertained. From Dressage demo’s, Shetland Grand National (always a favourite with the spectators) and Young Event Horse Classes plus so much more, that take part around the main 5* competition so make sure you check out the official ‘what’s on guide’ online. Badminton Horse Trials | Event Timetable
Still not sure it’s for you?
Last year my total non-horsey friend attended for a ‘girls’ weekend’. Initially dubious thinking there would be nets and shuttlecocks involved she had the best time! She LOVED all the lifestyle shopping, Pimms and was amazed by the horses too!
The stunning Badminton Estate, sheer number of shops, fabulous food and exciting competition is still everything the smaller version of me dreamed of. And then of course there are the best sport horses in the world. It really is the place to be in the first week of May!