Oxford News
Countdown to Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials 2026
The 2026 Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials will take place at the historic Oxfordshire estate from September 17 to 20, offering a blend of world-class eventing, family entertainment, and premium country shopping.
More than 200 exhibitors are expected to attend, making it not just a sporting highlight but also a major retail destination.
This year, the event will host a new shopping village called Curated in the Cotswolds, featuring high-end brands, artisan goods, and equestrian essentials.
There will also be a new collection of official Horse Trials merchandise through a partnership with Rydale.
Katrina Midgley, event director, said: “There’s something incredibly special about the build-up to Blenheim.
“With just 50 days to go, we’re looking forward to welcoming competitors, supporters and families back to Blenheim Palace for what promises to be our biggest and most exciting event yet.
“From world-class eventing and grassroots competition to shopping, fashion and family entertainment, there really is something for everyone, and we can’t wait to share it with you all.”
At the centre of the weekend is the prestigious CCI4*-L event, where elite horse and rider combinations will compete across dressage, cross country, and showjumping.
The trials will include the GFS Saddles 8 and 9 Year Old Class, which highlights emerging talent and has launched the careers of top horses like London 52 and Ballaghmor Class.
This year’s cross country course will be designed by Canadian FEI Level 3 course designer Jay Hambly, who brings international experience from the Beijing and Tokyo Olympic Games.
The event will also see the return of the evoke Eventer Challenge, where Pony Club and Riding Club teams compete in a dynamic combination of showjumping and cross country.
Visitors will have the chance to hear from the British Eventing European 3* Cup Squad, who will share their training insights, preparation techniques and competition experiences throughout the weekend.
A new addition for 2026 is the Attelage de Tradition carriage competition, bringing classic equestrian heritage to the South Lawn of the estate.
Families can look forward to children’s activities, food and drink, and free parking, with under-12s admitted free of charge.
Additional discounted entry to Blenheim Palace’s Adventure Play area will also be offered for the first time.
The Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials have been a fixture of the equestrian calendar for more than 30 years, attracting global riders and spectators to the 2,000-acre UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tickets are on sale now and include hospitality packages.
Further information is available at www.bpiht.co.uk.
The incident occurred at Didcot Parkway railway station between 7.30am and 8.30am on Saturday, July 26.
Thames Valley Police is now appealing for help to identify a male who may be able to assist with the investigation following the reported theft and assault.
READ MORE: Train line BLOCKED and delays amid emergency incident this morning
The police force released the appeal this morning (Monday, August 3) and included two CCTV photos of the person with whom they wish to speak.
A spokesperson for TVP said: “Officers would like to speak to the male pictured as they believe he may have information that could assist with their enquiries.
“If you recognise this individual, or have any information that could help identify him, please contact Thames Valley Police quoting the relevant crime reference number.
“You can make a report online or by calling 101. Please quote reference number: 43260384416.”
This temporary closure was announced shortly after 6am this morning (Monday, August 3) by Chiltern Railways.
Banbury train lines are being affected by trespassers on the tracks, causing major disruption on the network.
READ MORE: Police have new weapon to stop e-bikes and e-scooters
Unfortunately due to trespassers on the railway between Leamington Spa and Banbury the line is currently blocked between these stations.
We will provide further information as it becomes available. Please check prior to travel via: https://t.co/9MiIq3PBOv pic.twitter.com/TKQCWAYZh2
— Chiltern Railways (@chilternrailway) August 3, 2026
A spokesperson for Chiltern Railways said: “Unfortunately, due to trespassers on the railway between Leamington Spa and Banbury, the line is currently blocked between these stations.
“We will provide further information as it becomes available.”
It is not yet known as to when the issue will be resolved or when trains will resume running as usual.
The Pip and Posy Treehouse Mystery, based on the beloved pre-school characters, is the latest addition to Adventure Play at Blenheim Palace and is designed to spark imaginative play for younger visitors.
Children can embark on an interactive trail to help Pip find his missing toy, Piggy, with playful challenges leading to the new treehouse.
The adventure ends at the new treehouse, where families can enjoy imaginative play and the exciting discovery of Piggy – along with a new friend she has met along the way.
The treehouse is filled with cosy corners and playful decorations featuring characters from the Pip and Posy universe.
A new 3D character, Becca, is also being introduced, as well as a shaded seating area under a pergola for families to take breaks.
Adventure Play offers a wide range of activities, including zip lines, tunnels, and water fun at the Winding River.
Families visiting between June 25 and September 1 can take advantage of the Great British Summer Savings, with reduced admission prices across all ticket types, as well as savings on children’s meals.
Entry to the treehouse and trail is included with a Palace and Play Pass, which offers year-long access to Blenheim Palace and Adventure Play.
As a charity, each visit helps protect Blenheim Palace; honouring the past, enriching the present and shaping the future to inspire generations to come.
All admission income and donations are reinvested into the vital work of caring for the Palace, its collections and its extraordinary landscape.
Gift Aid helps your support go even further.
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