The past few weeks have been busy and the pace has increased! All who work on the Estate do a great job to make sure everything is looking as pristine as possible come May.The arrival of Spring is very welcome and Badminton Park is coming alive! Last weeks weather reminded me that there is no better place to be when it is warm and sunny. Eric Winter and the Willis Bros. team have most of the cross-country fences in situ, be it not quite in their final resting place, there are some interesting new diversions on the route.Harry Verney, our Site Manager of many years, has arrived back and it is good to see him and his white hut with smoke billowing out from the wood burner. The Shopping area is all but marked out, which includes the new Badminton Food Walk, organised by Ed Wickenden, which includes both established and exciting new vendors. Also, many of the stall holders are returning with a sprinkling of those that will be exhibiting for the first time, making sure there is the maximum amount of choice for all shoppers!Arena Seating are building the grandstands. Margaret Hopkins and team are about to start the stables annual spring clean so they are in pristine condition for the equine athletes that will occupy them in May.The International entries have now been open for several weeks and include entries from the well-known riders representing several different nations. If my spies are right, we are likely to end up with an exciting field of well-established athletes (including past winners of Badminton) alongside the first timers who will be looking forward to fulfilling their dream of riding at Badminton. Alex Harbottle and team are working hard to keep on top of checking all the qualifications!The Dubarry Burghley Young Event class entries will open on March 14th and we have the list of those that have qualified for the LeMieux Grassroots Championships and it will only be a couple of weeks before these entries will also open.I do hope you will join us at our Preview Evening at Tortworth Court, which is to be held on Tuesday, 22nd April. For further details please click here.The end of March will see our early bird ticket offer come to an end so now is the time to book your tickets.

The Mars Badminton Horse Trials are proud to presentThe Preview Evening 2025Tuesday April 22nd 2025 @ 6pmCanapes & Prosecco from 6 -7pmPreview evening 7 8.30pmTickets for the event are 30 per person and there is limited availability.Our distinguished panel will consist of the current holder of the title, New Zealand rider Caroline Powell, the highest-placed British rider from 2024, Alex Bragg, and Irish rider Lucy Latta, who made a sensational debut to finish runner-up.Course Designer Eric Winter will share his views alongside Event Director Jane Tuckwell, who will welcome everyone to the evening.The evening will be compered by Irish Olympic rider Sam Watson, a director of the eventing statistics company Equiratings.The panel will look ahead to this years Badminton as well as back at the highs and lows of events gone by and the sport. It promises to be a fun and fascinating evening.Tickets for the event are limited and are available here https://boxoffice.badminton-horse.co.uk/This is a unique and rare opportunity dont miss out.For those who have tickets and wish to dine in the 1853 Restaurant after the event please make your reservation hereTo be held at De Vere Tortworth Court, Tortworth, Wotton Under Edge, GL12 8HH

It is good to see the mornings and evenings getting lighter and when the sun does appear I feel there is a hint of Spring on the way. Since I last wrote the pace has quickened in various ways. The Box Office has now been open for a month and the Campsite is in demand and filling up! Rosie has been working on the tradestand area and the jigsaw puzzle does not have many pieces left to be filled. It is very sad that the Rural Crafts Association have retired from events and we are grateful to Trevor, Karen and team for the many years they have supported Badminton. We welcome on board Eden Crafts who will be providing the crafts marquee. The Rural Crafts food area is also under new management, more details to follow.In January I attended the FEI Eventing seminar in Lausanne. Many useful topics were covered and it is always a good opportunity to exchange views from organisers and officials from around the world as our sport evolves.This weekend we held a Medical, Veterinary and Fence Judge meeting. It was good to get everyone together and give an insight into what the 2025 event has in store, which included Eric describing the 2025 cross-country course that is now taking shape. We have in place very strong medical and veterinary teams who are deployed around the cross-country course. This includes a paramedic at each fence and three specialist doctors and vets within each of the sectors of which there are seven, this allows for every fence to be reachable within minutes. Yesterday, we were joined by members of the Gloucestershire and Avon Fire Services who gave both an enlightening talk and demonstration on their methods of horse extraction from a constricted area, with or without a rider involved in the scenario. With the invention of the frangible pins, etc. let us hope this practice will not be needed at Badminton but it is good to have the Fire Services additional knowledge in our back pocket.The previous day we took delivery of the mannequin horse which was amusing and involved a tractor and forklift! The Estate horses were quite surprised to see said horse in the indoor school on Saturday morning!Here in the Office, we all enjoy the moment when the entries open which is imminent. As always, it will be exciting to see which horse and rider combinations enter and will they include last years winner and some of those that competed at the Paris Olympics?! It is also interesting to see the first timers that enter and we look forward to welcoming them to Badminton in May.We have had several planning meetings with Mars Equestrian and how lucky we are that they are the Title Sponsor of the event, the whole team is great to work with and they give us wonderful support in various ways.We were all so pleased to see Nicola Wilson was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours which is so much deserved.By the time I write next the 2025 season will be underway and I wish all owners and riders the very best of luck at whatever level they are competing and lets hope the weather is kind this year!

There are so many options of accommodation to suit all budgets if you would like to come and stay during the Mars Badminton Horse Trials.People have been coming to camp at Badminton for many, many years and today the campsite extends to 1700 Pitches spread across 11 Fields.Many visitors return year on year to spend the week here at the event where they meet up with friends, spend precious time with family members and share their love of the event.The campsite is well equipped with an onsite store, The Dauntsey Shop, where you can get all your essentials such as milk, groceries and camping supplies.The Hub is a central meeting point where you will be able to buy a coffee or take a break from the camping stove and enjoy fish and chips and other items from the onsite caterer.Whether you are a seasoned camper or want to try it for the first time, the campsite can be used by campers with tents, caravans, motorhomes and horse lorries and if you do not have your own form of camping accommodation you can also use one of our caravan suppliers to rent a caravan for the week that will be delivered to the site ready for your arrival.The Badminton Retreat is for those that want to enjoy a rather more luxurious glamping experience within the park.Tucked away next to the Huntsmans Close the Badminton Retreat gives you the opportunity to stay in one of their luxury, fully equipped safari tents and enjoy the Retreats own Gastro Restaurant, dedicated parking, shuttle service to the shopping village, VIP lounge, complimentary spa (for Retreat guests only) and spend your evening listening to celebrity guest speakers from the eventing world in the beautiful restaurant.The accommodation list on our website is the place to visit to find local B&Bs, guest houses and accommodation to rent. Many guests from all around the world return year after year to stay with many of our local hosts who they can now count as friends.The De Vere Tortworth Court is the official hotel of the Badminton Horse Trials. A historic hotel set in stunning surroundings, Tortworth Court is just 12 miles away from the park at Wotton Under Edge. With all the facilities you would expect of this luxury hotel, it is the perfect base to return to after a thrilling day of sport at the horse trials.So, whether you want to rent a house, bring a two-man tent, enjoy a complimentary spa within breathing distance of one of Badmintons most iconic fences or enjoy the luxury offered by our official hotel, the options are endless.

2025 is off to a flying start with the countdown to the MARS Badminton Horse Trials, with the opening of the Box Office and the promise of some thrilling, top-class equestrian competition in Britain.Spectators have the tantalising prospect of watching Team GBRs Olympic gold medallists from Paris in action on home ground, where they will be competing against some of the best international combinations to win the worlds most prestigious title and valuable first prize of 117,600I cannot wait to return to Badminton this year, it is my local 5* and I am very proud to compete there. I will be giving it my best shot! said Alex Bragg, the highest placed British rider at the 2024 event.As well as the 5* competition, there is plenty to keep spectators busy. There will be more than 400 trade stands selling everything from fashion, jewellery, art and furniture to all things equestrian. Plus, there is the thrill of watching young jockeys in the Shetland Pony Grand National and picking a future Badminton winner in the Dubarry Burghley Young Horse qualifier.Visitors interested in an upgrade to their Badminton experience might like to consider the ringside Portcullis Club which is described here: https://www.badminton-horse.co.uk/the-portcullis-club/; however, this will need to be booked by the 30th April.The Fairfax and Favor Badminton Lakeside offers garden table bookings on Saturday overlooking the iconic water jump. For further information please visit https://www.badminton-horse.co.uk/the-fairfax-and-favor-lakeside/.Were excited about the 2025 edition of The Mars Badminton Horse Trials, said Director Jane Tuckwell. After the success of the 75th anniversary event in 2024, we are planning to build on the fun of that event with phenomenal competition, inspirational displays and a fantastic atmosphere.Please note that all car parking and personal admission tickets must be purchased in advance. There will be no sales on the gate.

The LeMieux Grassroots Championships kicks off on Tuesday 6th May, and spectators are welcome to watch as the competition gets under way at the Slaits, just across the road, from the park. Tuesday sees the first phase of dressage for both the 90 and 100 championships. Tickets are not required to spectate on the Tuesday but there is no access to the park on this day.Wednesday 7th May will see the park come alive with the Lemieux Championships Competitors fulfilling their dreams and taking on the much-anticipated cross country course.The next generation of eventing stars compete in the Dubarry Young Event Horse classes for 4 and 5 year olds over at the Slaits. This illustrious competition series has seen several 5* horses come through the series and with some world class riders taking the opportunity to showcase their future stars and hopefully gain their place for the final which is held at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials each year.With the tradestands opening their doors for the first day of trading and the crowd favourite First Horse Inspection for the International 5* competition, tickets are a must for the first official day of the Mars Badminton Horse Trials.Thursday sees the first horse head down the centre line and the start of the dressage phase of what will be the 76th running of the event. Whilst tickets are needed to access the park on each day there are several seating areas available in the Grandstand to watch the best in the world for free. For those that want to take advantage of the prime viewing areas for the two days of dressage we recommend you purchase a seat in the Grandstand with the best view in the house.Take a break from the shopping village and enjoy the lunchtime display in the main arena with free seating for all. Watch and listen as some of the countrys leading dressage personalities entertain and educate the audience. Watch this space for more information as we get near to the event.It really is feel good Friday at Badminton and with the second day of international dressage taking place the excitement starts to build as we see who will be heading into the cross country in the lead. Will there be a new records set, will there be a shock at the top of the score board, dont miss any of the excitement as the first phase of the competition draws to a close.Before heading home at the end of the day enjoy watching the Sports Horse of Great Britain Stallion Parade. These incredible stallions of all shapes and sizes showcase their versatility, temperament and talent as they parade and jump in the main arena.Saturday is the day to head to the park and enjoy an early coffee or breakfast and beat the crowds. The gates open at 7am and there is no better place to be as the sun rises then the Lake.Once you have enjoyed a leisurely breakfast and enjoyed some early morning retail therapy then there is only one place to be the Main arena, to cheer on the Shetland Pony Grand National. Pick your favourite and watch as the flag drops and these mighty little ponies fly, the louder you cheer the faster they will go.At approx. 11.30am the crowd will fall silent, and the air of anticipation will descend on the main arena as the long-awaited arrival of the first competitor. 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 and they are off. Who will be our first rider out on course, we will find that out after the draw in April.After a thrilling day of cross-country action, it will be time to unwind and find a spot at the Lakeside to enjoy a drink with friends and watch the sun set. Enjoy as the music takes over and vibe turns into one of fun and friendship.Sunday morning sees everyone head to the front of Badminton House and watch as each of the competitors present their horses to the ground jury on this final day of the Mars Badminton Horse Trials 2025. With the showjumping left to complete is will be all to play for to see who is crowned our winner.Grandstand seats are a must to witness the nail-biting climax, and these seats get sold out very early on so make sure you book yours early so you arent disappointed.We cannot wait to welcome you all back to Badminton and whilst many of you have already taken the opportunity to purchase your tickets as priority purchasers, Monday 13th January sees the Box Office open for general sales. With the early bird discount appliable until March 31st, make sure you take advantage of the discounted rates and ensure you have purchased your grandstand seats early as you really wouldnt want to miss out. Click here to head to our Box Office.

Today, January 6th, sees the long-awaited opening of the Box Office for priority purchasers (those that have purchased tickets before.)Campsite pitches, grandstand seats, hospitality packages for our the Weatherbys Hamilton Members Enclosure, the Portcullis Club and general admission tickets are all available to purchase either online or by calling our Box Office 01454 218375.For all ticket information please click here.For those that have not purchased tickets before ticket sales will open next Monday, January 13th, at 9am.

As we hurtle towards Christmas with speed (every year I tell myself I will be more organised!) the jigsaw puzzle is nearing completion. Many contractors and key officials are in place alongside the details are ready for the Box Office opening, which puts us in a good place when we return to the office in the New Year.As we all know, the weather, since I last wrote, has been anything but dry and calm. Andrew Temkin (the Technical Delegate) came over from America for the weekend when Storm Bert was at its height. Andrew, Eric Winter, Mike Etherington-Smith, Timmy Willis (part of course building team) and myself (plus of course Missy!) set off around the course so that Eric could relay the plans he has for the 2025 course and fences. We were almost wet through before we started! There are some exciting fences and slightly different route which, as usual, will be unveiled in the Spring. On completion we went to the Ship, in Luckington, and had a warming lunch before almost needing boats to get to our relevant homes. The good news is that the inclement weather was a real test for the further drainage that Andrew Godwin has carried out and this has proved successful. The other work that Andrew and Jake have just completed is a new track across the main car parks which will be a great benefit.November was a busy month. We are delighted to have announced Guide Dogs are as our Charity of the Year for 2025. I continue to learn they do so much more than just provide Guide Dogs, and I know they are much looking forward to demonstrating all at the Event.We felt very privileged that Badminton was one of the stops for the mammoth cycle ride that the Cycle4Caroline team undertook. It is a moment I will not forget for many a moon, cycling into and through the Park with the team, they deserve every penny and more raised. I was also very lucky to attend the British Eventing Support Trust Ball which was a real celebration of their achievement.Lots of meetings have taken place, including with South Glos Council, when the health and safety aspect of the event is reviewed.I attended a further meeting organised by the British Horse Society which followed on from the inaugural meeting last year to discuss horses in society. It was another good session, and all is beginning to gain momentum. I truly believe all horse/pony owners and riders need to take responsibility and be an ambassador for their own horse in all ways at all times.Amongst all the busy days I have had some lovely rides on Max. It is a great way to observe all that is going on in the Park.We now have a fun section on our website for our younger followers. Please go to the menu and search Little Badminton where you will find fun facts and be able to enjoy quizzes, etc.Before I sign off The Box Office will open online and in person on Monday, 6th January with new customers able to book a week later on 13th January.With all best wishes for a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

The Mars Badminton Horse Trials are excited to announce that LeMieux are to become the title sponsor of the Grassroots Championships, set to commence in 2025.The LeMieux Grassroots Championships, which will be held on Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th May 2025 prior to the International Event, is the pinnacle for event riders competing at BE90 and BE100 levels and has been hosted at the esteemed Badminton Horse Trials since 2010.Well-known for its seasonal collections of unique, compelling colour-match stories as well as technical saddle pads, horse wear and rugs, LeMieux is popular with riders globally.Dan Mahoney, Managing Director at LeMieux, said: From up-and-coming grassroots riders to professionals at the peak of equestrian sport, at LeMieux, we love to support riders coming up through the levels, and the LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championships 2025is a fantastic showcase for future talent. We expect to see some serious competition and very worthy winners.Commenting on the announcement Badminton Horse Trials Event Director Jane Tuckwell remarked: The Championships continue to go from strength to strength with riders qualifying from far and wide across Great Britain to compete at Badminton. We are extremely grateful to LeMieux for extending their generous support and becoming the Title Sponsor of the Grassroot Championships.British Eventing CEO Rosie Williams added: The BE90 and BE100 Championships is one of the pinnacles of the Eventing calendar for those Grassroots riders who have aspired to qualify, and we are delighted that they are being supported by such a forward-thinking and innovative brand as LeMieux. We look forward to working with the team at Badminton and LeMieux to deliver a first-class Grassroots Championships to remember in 2025.Badminton Horse Trials, a 5-star international event steeped in history since its inception in 1949, is known for its challenging cross-country course at the stunning Duke of Beauforts estate in Gloucestershire. The Grassroots competition, which takes place prior to the International, adds another dimension to the Event, promising an exciting future for eventing with the support of LeMieux.ENDS

The last few weeks have been spent continuing the work of making sure all the foundation bricks are in place for the 2025 event. By the time we get back into the office after Christmas, all the contractors will be on board as will many of our wonderful volunteers.Thanks to the continued good weather the ground works are still in progress tidying up areas and laying of new roads/tracks there always seems to be more to do! The cross- country course is looking stunning although every year at this time the fallen leaves do their best to make a wonderful blanket over much of the park. Thank goodness for leaf blowers! We welcome on board Dan Cummins who is now in charge of looking after the park and will play a big part in its maintenance going forward. I am glad to say the deer have finished their rut so it will again become a regular route for my horse and me. As those of us that are lucky enough to ride know, it is amazing what you see/notice when on a horse rather than on your feet that little bit of height making all the difference.All the established exhibitors have been re-invited. Alex and Rosie, in the office, are busy working their way through the applications and it is always good to be re-connecting with the exhibitors, be if they have with us for a long time or short. In the new year, we will be inviting new exhibitors to fill the spots of those that are not coming back for whatever reason in 2025.Delyth and Claire are putting in place all that is necessary in order the Box Office is ready to open the first week in the New Year. The Lakeside Pavilions are again proving popular, so dont leave it too late if you wish to book one of these! Suzy continues to keep you informed and hopefully amused via our social media pages.We have had another bluebell planting session in Huntsmans Close, hopefully this time with more success! Two years ago, we planted bulbs, and they have not really come to much our thinking is that it was too wet at the time.I felt very privileged to be invited to join a meeting at Nottingham University where there was a very enlightening and positive discussion about Building a Community of Practice for the Ethical Use of Animals in Sport. This discussion covered horses, greyhounds, sleigh racing dogs and others. We all need to make sure from today (not tomorrow) that we are working towards making animals in sport acceptable and understood by all, be it by our actions or conversations that we have going about our everyday lives.Well done to Pau for completing their event in such wet conditions, as we all know how difficult that can be.