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.