Badminton Horse Trials 2024

Founded in 1948 by the 10th Duke of Beaufort, Badminton Horse Trials has grown to become one of the world’s greatest equestrian events. This year will see the 75th Badminton Horse Trials, whilst at Joules, we’ll be celebrating a milestone of our very own, our 35th birthday.

When is Badminton Horse Trials?

In 2024 Badminton Horse Trials takes place from Wednesday 8th May to Sunday 12th May. 

Wednesday is the first day of the event with over 500 trade stands opening for business. And in the afternoon, the international competition will start with the 'First Horse Inspection’. Wednesday is also when the Voltaire Design Grassroots Championships (national finals for BE90 and BE100 horses and riders, which includes dressage, showjumping and cross-country) and the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Class, take place.

On Thursday and Friday visitors will be able to enjoy the expert dressage display at around 12.30pm. The Stallion parade is an added bonus to Friday visitors in the main arena from 5pm. 

Saturday is when the event really gets underway. Crowds at Badminton will enjoy the Shetland Pony Grand National in the main arena before the excitement of the Cross Country starts.

Sunday will see the final of the International competition, and is the last chance to do a little shopping, of course.  
 

Where is Badminton Horse Trials?

Badminton Horse Trials unfold in the park of Badminton House, the seat of the Duke of Beaufort in South Gloucestershire, England.

And if you’re wondering how to get to Badminton, don’t Google the Badminton Horse Trials postcode, nothing will appear. You can drive (which despite the traffic, is probably the method of transport we’d suggest). Badminton is around 15 miles from Bristol and Bath and about 100 miles west of London. Follow signage from Stroud, Cirencester, Chippenham or the M4  J15, J17 and J18. And then look out for Public Parking signs. 

Make sure you leave plenty of time, as the weekends can be particularly busy. 
 

The History of Badminton Horse Trials

Hundreds of thousands of people make the trip to Badminton Estate to shop, walk the cross country course, drink Pimms, meet old friends and most importantly (or maybe occasionally) watch the eventing itself. But how much do you know about the history of Badminton?

The Badminton Horse Trials was the brainchild of the 10th Duke of Beaufort, who was an avid horseman and a keen supporter of equestrian sports. The Duke had a passion for hunting and was keen to create an event that would showcase the skills of both horse and rider. In 1949, the first Badminton Horse Trials were held, and the event has been a fixture on the equestrian calendar ever since.

Did you know? The prize money when the event started was £150 for the overall winner. In 2023 it was £105,000.
 

Badminton x Joules

We’ve got stores up and down the country, as well as a website that offers next day delivery, but we’ve never forgotten our humble beginnings and love returning to Badminton.

We’ve had a stand at Badminton for decades and have been proud to design the official Badminton collection for a number of years. This year’s official collection stand will showcase pieces commemorating Badminton’s 75th anniversary through detailed embroidery and premium fabrics.  

On our main stand, you’ll be able to get your hands on the latest pieces from our spring and summer collection. They’ll also be games and giveaways, so don’t miss out.

And if you’re at Badminton on Saturday 11th May, we recommend heading to the Joules Fence. We’re not saying any more than that…

What to Wear to Badminton Horse Trials

First things first, cross your fingers. Cross your toes. Start worshipping the sun god. And pray for sunshine. We’re surely due a dry spell, anyway.

Outdoor events are always better in the sunshine. Nothing beats a Badminton where you can sit on a blanket and sip Pimms with friends, beneath a canopy of bright blue sky.

And as this year, our campaign is all about ‘being a good sport’ we’re suggesting wearing a line-up of preppy style with a playful side to inject the feel-good factor into your wardrobe. Layers are always a good idea, so go for a sweatshirt over a blouse and then add some pastel pink women’s chino shorts. 

Top it off with a cap and for your feet, canvas pumps and socks will provide style and comfort. Whilst heeled or chunky loafers are worth considering if the ground is dry enough. Knits are also a good option, and our cricket-inspired v-neck jumpers look great paired with white skinny jeans. And a statement knit such as our must-have Set Match Jumper will be a head-turning style.

Of course, rain and mud might always be a factor, but it doesn’t have to stop play, so make sure you’re got a pair of women’s wellies close by. And our Holkham Packaway Waterproof Raincoat is a must for staying dry in style. A tweed blazer can also be a good-looking way to beat a pesky May breeze.