Badminton Horse Trials
Country estate, horse riding, Pimms…could there be any more signs of a traditional English event?
On the second weekend of May, I had the pleasure of attending the Badminton Horse Trials. For those not familiar, this is an event that showcases the unique combination of equestrian skills. You usually have three phases: dressage, cross country (over fixed fences) and show jumping. These are designed to test the horse’s ability and there are several horse trials held across the UK each year.
Now, I am sure the more knowledgeable equestrian people can correct me, but I believe Badminton is one of the oldest horse trials in the UK, first held in 1949. It’s a 3-5 day event and you can choose to attend just one day or all of them.
I attended the Saturday for the Cross Country event (my favourite one) and I was invited by the wonderful Joules and Bloxham PR teams. A beautifully hot day (which we Brits know come few and far between) to celebrate all things equestrian and countryside.
The impressively huge Joules stand.
For years, Joules have designed the official Badminton collection and this year was no different, in which they proudly released their newest pieces. I swear, I am not just drinking the Kool-Aid! Please check out the Spring/Summer collection from Joules. Tell me you can’t find at least one thing you’d fall in love with on their website.
My recent love? The Trench Coat. I am a victim of styling beautifully, and then having to bung on an old crappy raincoat, because I didn’t think to buy a stylish, yet practical piece! And a trench coat can bring your look together, whilst shielding you from the inevitable British rain. I implore you - just go have a cheeky look. Go on, do it now. I’ll wait…
The Kennington is my new obsession. Photo from Joules website.
Ok are you back? Does your bank balance hate me now?
After some retail therapy at the Joules stand, I had the amazing opportunity to meet some fellow content creators. Some of these gals I have been following for years and it was so much fun to actually meet in person. It’s a surreal one, to know so much about each other’s lives (through posts and stories) and yet, we’d never met before - you do feel like you know them. Anyways, the ladies were wonderful and I am so grateful to have been able to share stories and laughter with them.
Lunchtime called and Joules had very graciously hosted us under their canopy for a preppy-inspired picnic. Pimms and ice creams were on order frequently! All whilst having the best seat in the house for one of the fence jumps. We together enjoyed the excitement of the sport and once again, I was just so taken care of by the Joules team. They continue to create such beautiful designed clothing and more importantly, they are such lovely people to spend time with.
The day was very well spent. I saw some incredible sporting, I indulged in some countrywear retail therapy, and I marvelled at the Badminton estate. Everyone can enjoy a day at Badminton, whether you go with friends, families or four-legged creatures (wait for all the Labradors finally being allowed to jump into the water at the end of the day)!
With that being said, here are my top tips for Badminton Horse Trials.
Tips for your Badminton visit
Dress code - I found Badminton to be a bit more low-key and casual, compared to other events like Burghley, for example. I’d suggest you be comfortable, especially when it comes to shoes. Very importantly though, if you’re coming by car, pack for all seasons! Bring the coat and wellies, in case you get that classic British weather.
Retail therapy - The shopping village is extensive, so don’t forget to treat yourself with a wander through the stands. If you do wish to immerse yourself in the British countryside, then I suggest wearing country attire from brands like Joules. Dubarry, Schoffel Country, Holland Cooper, Fairfax & Favor, Hicks & Brown are all fantastic companies as well.
Stay hydrated - There's a high chance you’ll be lucky and receive great weather. If that’s the case, save yourself on overpriced bottled water and bring your own water bottle. There are plenty of refill stations dotted across the estate, to keep you well hydrated.
Skip the queue of portaloos - If you can, try to use the toilets well in advance. The queues for the loos are massive and you can waste a lot of time waiting to use the disgusting things.
Take breaks - All the excitement of the event day can be very tiring, so don’t forget to take some breaks. After my day with Joules, I went to find my friends who were lying down on the grass and watching the event on the big screen. We all welcomed some time to decompress.
Leave late - especially on Cross Country Day. Don’t try to leave around 3-4pm, you will be stuck in traffic jams for hours on country roads. We left after 6pm and the roads were super clear.
