Set against the stunning backdrop of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Horse Trials will bring together elite riders and their horses from around the globe. The event will feature top-tier competition offering spectators a chance to witness world-class equestrian sport in an unparalleled setting, along with grassroots competitions where the stars of the future get their very own taste of competing at Blenheim.
This year we welcome social media stars Harlow White and Esme Higgs who will be a real treat for the younger visitors. Radio DJ, author and presenter Sara Cox will chat with riders at the end of the cross-country course on Saturday. We are also delighted to announce that Will Rawlin, Emily King and William Fox-Pitt will be joining us as ambassadors for BPIHT.
Will Rawlin is a 5* Event rider, gaining successful results at all levels with his current team of horses. Will’s focus at Blenheim this year will not be on competing, but on demonstrating how he trains his horses, from those in their early years of training to those right at the top of the sport.
Emily King is a Double European Medallist, U21 National Champion and is a successful international event rider right up to the very top of the sport. With her horse Jackpot entered into the CCI4*-L this year, it will be a great opportunity to see Emily’s preparation for the event and to follow her throughout the three days of competition. Emily will also showcase how she supports other riders, training one of her students at BPIHT in the Blenheim Arena.
British Olympian William Fox-Pitt is one of Britain’s all-time great event riders. At Blenheim, William is heralded as the greatest champion to date, with six victories to his name, all on different horses. During his long career, he won an unprecedented 14 five-stars, over 50 three-day events, and 20 senior championship medals. William announced his retirement from top-level competition at the Badminton Horse Trials in 2024.
Besides the top sporting action, there is so much more on offer to visitors. New for 2024, the 'Big Wheel' offers unforgettable views and memories for those brave enough to ride. Towering high above the grounds of Blenheim Palace, the Big Wheel offers fantastic, panoramic vistas of the Horse Trials and the surrounding countryside.
The exquisite landscape can also be taken advantage of with a special Lakeside Parking spot. Settle close to your car on the high slope above the lake and you can picnic like a pro from your perfect position on the cross-country course. What better place to set yourself up with a Fortnum & Mason picnic, which can be pre-ordered and collected once you arrive?
Experience thrilling demonstrations and exciting displays in the Blenheim and Churchill Arenas from the Police Pass Wide and Slow team, Mini Rovers, Falconry, the Shetland Pony Grand National, Spotted Liberty Ponies and Side-Saddle group ‘A Bit on the Side’ show off the elegance of a bygone era.
Looking for some retail therapy at Blenheim? With upwards of 170 trade stands and exhibitors already set to attend the event, there will be a whole host of goodies on offer with special local food areas, shopping from fine art to feed buckets and everything in between. You can read more about the retail offerings here.
Come and join us in September for the premier Autumn event of the season, tickets can be purchased through the box office.
