We’re leading up to one of the most prestigious events in the equestrian calendar. The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials kicks off on 3rd September and attracts top riders from all over the world along with a huge crowd. Burghley has four days for you to choose from, each one jam-packed with sport and entertainment. Thursday and Friday have an amazing offering of dressage, where horse and rider perform spectacular routines, along with plenty of smaller classes, displays, great food and obviously lots of shops (including a Joules stand) to keep everyone entertained. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your time at Burghley.
Saturday is cross country day, by far the busiest day so be sure to leave plenty of time to get parked up as some of the world’s best riders will be setting off from as early as 11am. The course is approximately 4 miles long and makes for nail biting viewing (especially at the lake) so pop on your walking boots and take a wander around. This 4* course designed by Capt Mark Phillips is not for the faint hearted, with 32 challenging fences it is the ultimate test of horse and rider. Even our favourite Olympic medallist, the experienced Mary King will feel elation, relief and pride as she passes through the finishing line.
For every horse and rider who completes the dressage and cross country stages it’s on to the last element on Sunday; show jumping. The finale is edge of your seat viewing, just the slightest tip of a pole and the rider in the lead can lose this prestigious title in a heartbeat. You can hear a pin drop, this is definitely not to be missed.
Shop (and then Drop)
When you’re not glued to the action, why not start exploring the 600 stands, with something to suit all tastes you won’t be disappointed. Be sure to visit the Joules, Joules Burghley Collection, and #JoulesLovesRugby stand’s at B2, A40 and B4. Once you’re all shopped out you can even leave your bags at the ‘shop drop’ so you are free to wander around without being weighed down.
Style Tips
Top tips from our knowledgeable equestrian followers are to be prepared with layers and comfortable footwear. A pair of wellies might seem a silly idea if the sun is shining but much like being at a festival, one small downpour can turn everything into a sea of mud. Along with your wellies, pack a lightweight waterproof that you can stow away without taking up much room. Take a look at joules.com for wellies with a twist and lightweight waterproofs with blooming lovely prints.
Comfy footwear and layers!
@BeccaHartGroom
Woof, Woof!
There are almost as many dogs as there are people at Burghley Horse Trials, if you take along your family pooch then make sure you keep them on a lead at all times and pack them their own little water bottle and picnic too, it’ll be just as exciting for them as it is for you!
Where to eat
It’s definitely a tradition for people to pack their own picnic with lots of delicious homemade snacks and Pimms to enjoy with friends and family. However if you’re not so prepared there are plenty of food stalls selling everything from local cheeses to international delicacies.
Need to know where you can buy tickets or where you can land your helicopter? The Burghley Horse Trials FAQ page has all the answers
Shop the Burghley Collection
Becky blackburn
24.08.2015 at 17:04Hi. Will the Joules stand at Burghley Horse trials be a sale stand! Thanks