It’s well known that the people of the UK are animal lovers, and with over 5 million of us attending equestrian events across the UK each year, we obviously also love seeing horses in competition!

The UK boasts a rich equestrian heritage. From thrilling show jumping competitions to elegant dressage displays and exhilarating cross-country events, the UK hosts a variety of internationally acclaimed equestrian events.

Today, we have a look at the UK’s top 5 international equestrian events, in our opinion.

1 – The Olympia International Horse Show – Held annually at Olympia in Kensington, West London, this indoor equestrian event is always highly anticipated. This really is a must-see event for equestrian lovers.

2 – Badminton Horse Trials – This is one of the most prestigious and demanding three-day events in the equestrian world, held in the grounds of Badminton House, Gloucestershire. It is known for its formidable cross-country course, and has a rich heritage which dates back to 1949. There is no doubt that it is a real test of courage, skill and athleticism….for horses and riders alike!

3 – Royal Windsor Horse Show, London – Taking place in the gorgeous grounds of Windsor Castle, this horse show is world-renowned for this regal setting, top class competition and royal patronage. The Queen was a regular visitor to this event, and King Charles will no doubt also take on this mantle in the future.

4 – Burghley Horse Trials, Lincolnshire – Another prominent event in the international equestrian calendar is the Burghley Horse Trials, held over a 4-day period, annually. It includes dressage and show jumping, and attracts elite competitors from around the world. The beautiful surroundings and reputation of this event make it a must-visit event for equestrian aficionados.

5 – Hickstead Derby, West Sussex – Dating back to 1961, this is an iconic show jumping event held each year. The Hickstead Derby is a gruelling and technically demanding course, featuring obstacles such as the infamous 10-foot-6-inch Derby Bank. Only the most skilled riders and horses can conquer this challenging course, making it a thrilling and unforgettable experience for spectators.

So, these are our top 5 international equestrian events, and you might find that your favourite is in our list from the Spaceworks team, or might have another one in mind.

That’s why we love sport – it’s a matter of opinions!