Calling all horse enthusiasts - are you looking for the best horse events to attend in 2023? Then you are in the right place!
In this article we have handpicked the year’s must-see horse events. From classic showjumping competitions to eventing championships, these horse events will surely give you an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're just an equestrian enthusiast, spectator or a participant, you’ll want to add these top 5 events to your calendar this year.
Read on to learn more about our most anticipated and recommended horse events you can’t miss in 2023!
Badminton Horse Trials presented by Mars Equestrian
When: 4-8th May 2023
Discipline: Eventing
Tickets: Priority booking available from January 2023
The prestigious equestrian event hosted by Mars in Gloucestershire, England, is widely regarded as one of the most elite competitions in the world. This CCI5*-L event attracts top-rated equestrian competitors and draws huge crowds. The event spans three phases of competition, which includes dressage on Thursday and Friday, cross-country on Saturday, and showjumping on Sunday. With a prize fund exceeding £380,000, it serves as the ultimate test of the horse and rider's skill, ability, and experience. Only the best are able to climb to the top of the leaderboard.
Apart from the competition, spectators can also enjoy a range of shopping and entertainment options. There are food courts throughout the venue, and visitors can choose to relax with a picnic basket or a glass of prosecco on the VIP terraces as the horses thunder past during the cross-country phase.
Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials
When: 31st August – 3rd September 2023
Discipline: Eventing
Tickets: TBC
The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials is another highly esteemed event on the equestrian calendar, which any horse enthusiast should mark in their diary for 2023. Held a bit later in the year, this three-day event takes place at Burghley House in Stamford, Lincolnshire and features a CCI5*-L competition.
The competition is structured to test the horse and rider abilities across each phase, with other levels of competition available for less-experienced combinations. Each day of the event, riders are required to complete a discipline test in dressage, cross country, and showjumping. The overall winner is determined by the combination of points earned in all sections, and top placings are awarded a portion of the £320,000 prize fund.
As one of the oldest equestrian events globally, Burghley Horse Trials attracts competitors from all corners of the world. It is also an essential social event of the season, offering a lively atmosphere and plenty of entertainment for attendees. Whether you're a passionate equestrian or seeking a unique experience, this event is a must-see!
LGCT London
When: 10th-13th August 2023
Discipline: Showjumping
Tickets: Available later in the year
The Longines Global Champions Tour of London is a highly regarded showjumping event that forms part of one of the industry's most prestigious competitions. Held at the iconic Royal Hospital Chelsea, it is among the most thrilling equestrian events in the United Kingdom (UK).
As a part of the Longines Global Champions Tour and Global Champions League, the competition brings together some of the world's most exceptional riders and horses, challenging them with showjumping courses up to CSI5* level. With multiple levels of showjumping and numerous reasons to celebrate, it is a spectacular sight to witness that is sure to quicken your pulse!
This event provides an exceptional opportunity for spectators to witness the incredible abilities and skills of the show jumpers at their best. The hospitality services are sure to leave your taste buds satisfied while you enjoy watching John Whitaker, Pieter Devos, Scott Brash, Edwina Tops-Alexander, and many more riders tackle the dizzying heights and winding tracks.
Whether you're a showjumping enthusiast or simply seeking an exhilarating experience in London, this event is a must-see for everyone looking for a thrilling adventure.
Horse of the Year Show
When: 4th-8th October 2023
Discipline: Dressage, Showjumping, Driving, Showing (various), Pony Club, Puissance
Tickets: Available later in the year
The Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) is a highly regarded indoor equestrian event in the UK, not to be missed by any horse enthusiast. Hosted annually since 1949 at the NEC Birmingham, HOYS showcases the best of British dressage, showjumping, pony club mounted games, showing, and driving, making it an event of unparalleled significance for horse lovers.
Hundreds of riders spend their year attending events across the country, hoping to qualify for this iconic competition that brings together the crème de la crème, competing for the coveted trophies. From retired racehorses to heavy cobs, you'll witness an incredible variety of breeds and styles over the five days.
For spectators, HOYS offers a unique opportunity to enjoy championship finales, the Puissance wall, and the Grand Prix competition, as well as remarkable entertainment with impressive displays and FEI classes. Moreover, large trade halls feature fantastic shopping experiences, interactive displays, rider signing opportunities, and an exciting lineup of daredevil stunt riders.
In 2023, HOYS will return for its 74th year, and it's set to be even grander than ever. With hundreds of horses competing in various equestrian classes, it's an event that should not be missed by anyone interested in horse events.
London International Horse Show
When: TBC
Discipline: Dressage, Showjumping, Driving, Puissance, Pony Club
Tickets: Due to go on sale in spring
The London International Horse Show is an incredibly popular annual equestrian event held in London. With a history dating back to 1907, this indoor show is one of Europe's most important showjumping competitions. It showcases the world's top horse and rider combinations competing in various classes, such as the FEI Driving World Cup and Grand Prix dressage and showjumping events.
In addition to showjumping, dressage, scurry driving, and pony club mounted games, the London International Horse Show offers spectators a diverse range of disciplines to enjoy. Special displays like the Shetland Pony Grand National make it an alluring event that attracts massive crowds each year.
The London International Horse Show is more than just a competition; it is a Christmas celebration for equestrians, complete with a magical shopping experience. Spectators can soak up the ambiance of the horse world while enjoying thrilling performances from stunt and performance riders. The sight of Father Christmas riding around the arena on his sleigh is an experience that is sure to linger in the memories of both seasoned equestrians and newcomers to the sport.
More Dates To Keep in Your Diary
We have also listed below all the major must see events in 2023
|
Royal Windsor Horse Show |
11-14 May |
Showing/SJ/Dressage/ Endurance/Driving |
Windsor, Berks |
|
12-14 May |
Eventing |
Derbyshire |
|
|
The Derby Meeting |
2-3 June |
Flat racing |
Epsom, Surrey |
|
8-11 June |
8-11 June |
West Yorkshire |
|
|
Bolesworth International |
14-18 June |
Showjumping |
Chester, Cheshire |
|
20-24 June |
Flat racing |
Berkshire |
|
|
Hickstead Derby Meeting |
22-25 June |
Showjumping |
Hickstead, West Sussex |
|
6-9 July |
Eventing |
Wiltshire |
|
|
Festival of Hunting |
19 July |
Hound show |
East of England showground, Peterborough |
|
25-30 July |
Showing/Showjumping |
Hickstead, West Sussex |
|
|
British Showjumping National Championships |
1-6 August |
Showjumping |
Stoneleigh, Warks |
|
4-6 Aug |
Eventing |
Gatcombe, Glos |
|
|
Global Champions Tour of London |
9-13 Aug |
Showjumping |
Royal Hospital Chelsea, London |
|
Scope Festival |
Aug |
Showjumping |
South View EC, Cheshire |
|
National Dressage Championships |
14-17 Sept |
Dressage |
Somerford, Cheshire |
|
14-17 Sept |
Eventing |
Woodstock, Oxon |
|
|
4-8 Oct |
Showjumping/showing/ dressage |
Birmingham NEC |
|
|
London International Horse Show |
14-18 Dec |
Dressage/showjumping/ showing/driving |
Excel, London |
|
26 Dec |
Jumps racing |
Kempton |
The year 2023 is shaping up to be an exciting time for horse enthusiasts, with a plethora of thrilling experiences to be had, now that COVID restrictions are a thing of the past. From prestigious showjumping competitions to the Badminton and Burghley Horse Trials, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And, of course, there is the grand finale - the iconic London International Horse Show, which is always an event to remember.
While modern technology allows for live streams and broadcasting of events, there is nothing quite like experiencing the excitement in person. It is therefore recommended to plan ahead and book tickets early (when available) to ensure the best experience.
No matter which horse event you choose to attend, you are guaranteed to have a fantastic time!
