The countdown is officially on, with just 100 days to go until the Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials returns to the stunning grounds of Blenheim Palace from 17 – 20 September 2026.
Set against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, this year’s event promises an unforgettable weekend of world-class sport, lifestyle shopping, countryside entertainment and family-friendly activities, amidst elite international competition.
Spectators can expect top-level competition in the CCI4*-L across all three eventing disciplines: dressage, two days of cross country and showjumping. The highly acclaimed GFS Saddles CCI4*-S 8 & 9 Year-Old class will also return, giving spectators the opportunity to see the equine stars of the future in action. Over the years, notable alumni have graced the hallowed 8 & 9 Year Old Blenheim turf, including multiple four and five-star superstars Lordships Graffalo, Ballaghmor Class, London 52 and Cooley Rosalent.
The Horse Trials will continue to celebrate every level of the sport, from emerging talent to established champions, as the hugely popular evoke™ Eventer Challenge returns, welcoming grassroots teams from Riding and Pony Clubs across the UK compete for top honours. The event will also feature dressage and showing classes for RoR competitors, as well as team showjumping for Pony Clubs on Sunday, hosted by the Heythrop Pony Club and a first for the Horse Trials, the Attelage de Tradition carriage competition, specifically designed for the event.
The industry celebrations will kick off in style on the Thursday evening, with the inaugural Blenheim Eventing Honours. Faces from across the industry will be recognised for their commitment and skill, with awards such as the Grooms Award, Rising Star and Director’s Award leading the charge.
Throughout the weekend, there will be plenty to entertain families in addition to the equine action, such as Mini Landers, the Sheep Show and the Shetland Pony Grand National. Social media sensation Meg Elphick will be attending for all four days of the Horse Trials, with an opportunity for fans to say hello during an exclusive Meet and Greet taking place on Saturday and Sunday.
5* event rider Simon Grieve will also be in attendance throughout the Horse Trials, with fans given the opportunity to meet him in person on Saturday and Sunday. The British 3* team will be performing expert displays, in addition to masterclasses from trainer Nick Turner and Dressage trainer Paul Fielder and a meet and greet with local eventer turned coach, Nick Gauntlett.
Families can also enjoy an exciting new ticket offer this year, providing access to the legendary Adventure Play at Blenheim Palace. Designed as a world of exploration, creativity and adventure, Adventure Play encourages children to climb, crawl and discover their way through tunnels, bridges, cargo nets, hidden chambers and a dedicated toddler area for younger adventurers.
To make combining a visit with the Horse Trials even easier, single-entry Adventure Play tickets will be available from Thursday to Sunday. In addition, Horse Trials ticket holders can benefit from a 50% discount on admission to Blenheim Palace, giving families even greater value and the opportunity to enjoy a memorable day out together.
New for 2026, The Friday Fashion Forecast, created and presented by Femme Country Magazine will be an exciting addition to proceedings, bringing together leading voices from the worlds of fashion, equestrian sport and rural lifestyle for a day of style, storytelling and inspiration.
Visitors can also explore the ever-popular Shopping Village, this year curated by Cotswold Collective, featuring premium brands, artisan makers and equestrian specialists offering everything from country clothing and jewellery to homeware, artisan food and equestrian essentials. For those looking to embrace the Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials style early, exclusive merchandise in collaboration with Rydale.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome visitors back to Blenheim Palace for what promises to be another fantastic year at the Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials,” says Event Director Katrina Midgley.
“With world-class sport, exciting new features, grassroots competition and so much for families and visitors to enjoy, there really is something for everyone across the four days.”
Visitors looking to elevate their experience can enjoy a range of premium hospitality options, including VIP packages and the exclusive Hospitality Lodge, offering exceptional views of the action in refined surroundings.
The event is also proud to continue supporting Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) as its Official Charity Partner for 2026. Visitors will have the opportunity to support the charity through donations when purchasing tickets, helping RDA continue its life-changing work through horses.
Tickets for the 2026 Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials are on sale now. Standard parking is free and children aged 12 and under can attend free of charge. BRC and BHS members can also enjoy exclusive ticket benefits, including complimentary entry on Thursday and Friday, and 20% off tickets for the weekend.
For tickets, hospitality and the latest event updates, please visit Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials: Here