The Badminton Horse Trials 2026 is one of the most prestigious events in the world of equestrian sport, bringing together elite riders, world-class horses, and passionate fans. Held at the iconic Badminton Estate, this five-day event features thrilling dressage, cross-country, and show jumping competitions, along with exciting side attractions.
Badminton Horse Trials 2026 Schedule, Events, and Timings
| Date | Day | Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 5, 2026 | Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Dressage (LeMieux Grassroots Championships) | The Slaits |
| May 6, 2026 | Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM | Dressage, Show Jumping, Cross Country | Various |
| May 6, 2026 | Wednesday | 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM | Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Class | The Slaits |
| May 6, 2026 | Wednesday | 4:30 PM | First Horse Inspection (International Event) | North Front, Badminton House |
| May 6, 2026 | Wednesday | 6:00 PM (Approx.) | Presentation of Prizes | North Front, Badminton House |
| May 7, 2026 | Thursday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Dressage | Main Arena |
| May 7, 2026 | Thursday | 12:30 PM (Approx.) | Dressage Display (Anna Ross) | Main Arena |
| May 7, 2026 | Thursday | 5:30 PM | Shut Up and Ride Live | Lakeside |
| May 8, 2026 | Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Dressage | Main Arena |
| May 8, 2026 | Friday | 12:30 PM (Approx.) | Dressage Display (Anna Ross) | Main Arena |
| May 8, 2026 | Friday | After Dressage | Stallion Display | Main Arena |
| May 8, 2026 | Friday | 5:30 PM | Equiratings Team Live | Lakeside |
| May 9, 2026 | Saturday | 10:30 AM | Shetland Pony Grand National | Main Arena |
| May 9, 2026 | Saturday | 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Approx.) | Cross Country Test | Cross Country Course |
| May 10, 2026 | Sunday | 8:30 AM | Final Horse Inspection | North Front, Badminton House |
| May 10, 2026 | Sunday | 11:30 AM | Jumping Test (First Part) | Main Arena |
| May 10, 2026 | Sunday | 1:55 PM | Band Display | Main Arena |
| May 10, 2026 | Sunday | 2:30 PM | Parade of Competitors | Main Arena |
| May 10, 2026 | Sunday | 2:45 PM – 3:45 PM | Jumping Test (Top 20) | Main Arena |
| May 10, 2026 | Sunday | 3:50 PM | Parade of the Duke of Beaufort’s Hounds | Main Arena |
| May 10, 2026 | Sunday | 4:05 PM | Prize Ceremony & Winners Presentation | Main Arena |
⏰ Daily Opening Times
| Day | Gates Open | Tradestands Open |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM | 9:00 AM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM | 9:00 AM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM | 9:00 AM |
| Saturday | 7:00 AM | 8:00 AM |
| Sunday | 7:30 AM | 9:00 AM |
🗓️ Badminton Horse Trials 2026 Full Schedule
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 – LeMieux Grassroots Championships
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Dressage at The Slaits
- 🏆 Results: To be updated soon after the event concludes
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 – Grassroots & International Event Begins
- 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM: Dressage, Show Jumping & Cross Country
- 6:00 PM (Approx.): Prize Presentation – North Front, Badminton House
- 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM: Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Class – The Slaits
- 4:30 PM: First Horse Inspection – International Event
- 🏆 Results: To be updated soon after each event
Thursday, May 7, 2026 – Dressage Day
- Gates Open: 8:00 AM | Tradestands: 9:00 AM
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Dressage
- 12:30 PM (Approx.): Dressage Display by Grand Prix rider Anna Ross
- 5:30 PM: “Shut Up and Ride” Live at the Lakeside
- 🏆 Results: To be updated soon after dressage sessions
Friday, May 8, 2026 – Dressage Continues
- Gates Open: 8:00 AM | Tradestands: 9:00 AM
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Dressage
- 12:30 PM (Approx.): Dressage Display by Anna Ross
- After Dressage: Stallion Display
- 5:30 PM: Equiratings Team Live
- 🏆 Results: To be updated soon after dressage concludes
Saturday, May 9, 2026 – Cross Country Action
- Gates Open: 7:00 AM | Tradestands: 8:00 AM
- 10:30 AM: Shetland Pony Grand National – Main Arena
- 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Approx.): Cross Country Test
- 🏆 Results: To be updated soon after cross country finishes
Sunday, May 10, 2026 – Final Day & Show Jumping
- Gates Open: 7:30 AM | Tradestands: 9:00 AM
- 8:30 AM: Final Horse Inspection
- 11:30 AM: Jumping Test (First Part)
- 1:55 PM: Band Display
- 2:30 PM: Parade of Competitors
- 2:45 PM – 3:45 PM: Jumping Test (Top 20)
- 3:50 PM: Parade of the Duke of Beaufort’s Hounds
- 4:05 PM: Prize Ceremony
- 🏆 Final Results & Winners: To be updated immediately after the final presentation
⏰ Daily Opening Times
- Wednesday – Friday: Gates open at 8:00 AM
- Saturday: Gates open at 7:00 AM
- Sunday: Gates open at 7:30 AM
📊 What to Expect at Badminton 2026
The event follows the classic three-phase eventing format:
- Dressage: Precision, elegance, and control
- Cross Country: Endurance, bravery, and speed
- Show Jumping: Accuracy under pressure
Spectators can also enjoy shopping at tradestands, live shows, expert demonstrations, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the week.
🔔 Important Note
This Badminton Horse Trials 2026 timetable is provisional and may be subject to change. Visitors are advised to check for live updates during the event.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Badminton Horse Trials 2026 promises a thrilling week of elite equestrian sport, unforgettable performances, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re following live results or attending in person, this guide ensures you stay updated with every moment.