Gatcombe Park offers spectators one of the best cross country experiences in the world with most of the action visible from just two special locations
A firm favourite with all of the family The Festival of British Eventing, presented by the British Equestrian Trade Association, takes place 4-6 August 2017. Hosted at Gatcombe Park, home of HRH The Princess Royal, it is a family event that must be included in the Cotswold calendar. With a full programme of entertainment in the two arenas, as well as the very best Championship horse trials action that one day eventing has to offer showcased over the weekend, it is an event not to be missed.
Top riders compete for the coveted British Open and British National titles along with the exciting Event Rider Masters competition. There are four championships in total with the Smith & Williamson British Intermediate Championship, The Dodson & Horrell British Novice Championship and The TopSpec Challenge for The Corinthian Cup, the National Restricted Novice Championship as well as an the Advanced Class giving the world’s top riders a chance to bring a string of horses at all levels to compete over the weekend.
Gatcombe Park offers spectators one of the best cross country viewing experiences in the world with most of the action visible from two special locations, the traditional Park Bowl and now the new water complex on Avening Banks providing excellent entertainment that is easily accessible to the family and are both great picnic locations.
The Festival Food walk and the shopping village allow for a bit of retail therapy and somewhere to enjoy a spot of lunch not far from the main Arena. A whole host of family entertainment takes place here including the ever popular Shetland Pony Grand National, Hound Parade, Dressage to Music and Scurry Driving. This year Atkinson Action horses, holders of two world records and providing horses for shows such as Poldark and Victoria, make a debut appearance at The Festival with their high energy, explosive and breath-taking show. Not to be outdone, the Harringtons arena hosts Pony Club Showjumping, Mounted Games and a fun Dog Show, as well as this year for the first time, Arena Eventing giving enthusiastic amateurs of the sport the chance to compete on Gatcombe’s hallowed turf.
Becoming a member of the Hamptons International Garden Club allows you to get a ringside seat and enjoy full hospitality helping to make it a truly unforgettable weekend, there is also the opportunity to stay on site in the caravan park to fully immerse yourself in the action.
Put the date in your diary now so you don’t miss out on this unique and popular Cotswold weekend!
For more information:
On The Festival of British Eventing, presented by the British Equestrian Trade Association, 4-6 August, Gatcombe Park, Gloucestershire and to take advantage of advance and family ticket prices visit the website.
