Badminton Horse Trials 2025: A Fabulous Family Day Out

The Mars Badminton Horse Trials, one of the most prestigious events in the equestrian calendar, is set to return from Wednesday, May 7th to Sunday, May 11th, 2025. Held in the picturesque grounds of the Badminton Estate in South Gloucestershire, this iconic five-star eventing competition promises a week of top-tier sport, family-friendly entertainment, and a showcase of the profound bond between horse and rider. And, perhaps one of the best family days out you will ever have.

A Storied Legacy

Established in 1949, the Badminton Horse Trials have evolved into a cornerstone of the international eventing scene. As a CCI5* event—the highest level in eventing—it attracts elite riders and horses from around the globe, all vying for glory in a competition that tests their prowess in dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. With an annual attendance of approximately 180,000 spectators, Badminton is not just a competition, it's a celebration of equestrian excellence and tradition. badminton-horse.co.uk 

Event Schedule Highlights

Tuesday, May 6th
While the main event begins on Wednesday, the action kicks off on Tuesday with the LeMieux Grassroots Championships. This competition offers amateur riders the chance to compete on the hallowed grounds of Badminton, embodying the spirit of inclusivity and passion for the sport.

Wednesday, May 7th

• The park comes alive with the culmination of the Grassroots Championships, including cross-country phases.
• The Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse classes for 4- and 5-year-olds take place, spotlighting future stars of eventing.
• The first horse inspection for the international competition occurs in the afternoon, setting the stage for the days ahead.

Thursday & Friday, May 8th–9th

• The dressage phase of the CCI5* competition unfolds, where precision and elegance are on full display.
• Lunchtime dressage displays and the Sports Horse of Great Britain Stallion Parade provide additional entertainment.

Saturday, May 10th

• The adrenaline-pumping cross-country phase challenges horse and rider with a course renowned for its difficulty and design.
• The Shetland Pony Grand National offers a delightful spectacle for families and children.

Sunday, May 11th

• The final horse inspection ensures the welfare and readiness of the competitors.
• The show jumping phase determines the overall winner, culminating in the prize-giving ceremony.
• Additional highlights include a band display and the parade of the Duke of Beaufort’s Hounds.

Key Riders & Favourites

🇬🇧 Oliver Townend

World number one Oliver Townend is aiming for the prestigious Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. Having secured victories at both the Kentucky Three-Day Event and Burghley Horse Trials, a win at Badminton would complete the trio. He's riding Ballaghmor Class, a seasoned horse with multiple top-five finishes at five-star events, including previous successes at Burghley and Kentucky.

🇬🇧 Ros Canter

Reigning Badminton champion Ros Canter led after the dressage phase with Izilot DHI, scoring 25.3 penalties. However, during the cross-country phase, the pair encountered issues at the Mars Badminton Lake, leading to their retirement from the competition.

🇳🇿 Tim Price

New Zealand's Tim Price, riding Vitali, is a strong contender. The pair have impressive past performances, including third and fourth at Burghley and a seventh-place finish at Badminton. Vitali is known for exceptional dressage scores, although show jumping faults have been a challenge.

🇬🇧 Emily King

Emily King, daughter of two-time Badminton winner Mary King, is competing with Valmy Biats. The duo has shown promise with top-ten finishes at Pau and Burghley, and a recent win at Thoresby.

Notable Performances & First-Timers

🇮🇪 Lucy Latta

Irish rider Lucy Latta, on her five-star debut with RCA Patron Saint, delivered the fastest cross-country round, finishing just one second over the optimum time. Her performance has been a highlight of the competition.

🇳🇿 Lauren Innes

Lauren Innes, representing New Zealand, achieved a personal best in dressage with Global Fision M. Balancing her career as a chartered accountant, Innes has shown significant progress in managing her horse's performance under pressure.

This Year’s Draw

Kirsty Chabert will be the first rider down the centre line at the 2025 MARS Badminton Horse Trials, taking place from 7–11 May, as the draw for the prestigious Gloucestershire five-star event has been revealed.

Kirsty will kick off proceedings aboard Classic VI as number one and will also compete on Opposition Heraldik Girl, carrying number 89. Last year’s Badminton champions, Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier, are set to go second, while Caroline’s second mount, High Time, has been drawn 98th.

Britain’s Paris Olympic team gold medallists are well represented: Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo are drawn 58th, Tom McEwen and JL Dublin will go 44th, and Laura Collett, riding Bling, will compete wearing number 87. Laura has withdrawn her other entry, Hester. Meanwhile, Yasmin Ingham and Rehy DJ are drawn immediately after Tom, at number 45.

Harry Meade currently has five horses listed in the entries, but Et Hop Du Matz and Grafennacht are now confirmed to be heading to the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event and will not appear at Badminton. This leaves Superstition, Annaghmore Valoner, and Cavalier Crystal as his options. Originally aiming to ride three horses, if possible, Harry has now confirmed he will compete on two.

New Zealand’s Tim Price will be fourth to ride with Viscount Viktor and will also close out the competition aboard Vitali. His wife, Jonelle Price, will take to the arena 13th on Grappa Nera. Representing China, Alex Hua Tian is drawn 17th with Chicko, though he has withdrawn his Paris Olympic horse, Jilsonne Van Bareelhof.

Preparations for the event are progressing well. Event director Jane Tuckwell confirmed that watering of the course is underway following a spell of dry weather. “We’re on course for everything. My team and I are very much looking forward to welcoming everyone to what we believe will be an epic MARS Badminton Horse Trials 2025,” said Jane.

Event Updates

Prize Money Boost: The total prize fund for the event has increased by 12% from the previous year, totalling £425,000, with the winner receiving £117,600.

Royal Attendance: Her Majesty The Queen is scheduled to attend the final day of the event, marking the 75th anniversary of the Badminton Horse Trials.

https://news.britisheventing.com/

Cross-Country Course: This year's course features challenging elements, including the iconic Holland Cooper Vicarage V and the new Lightsource bp Mound, testing riders' precision and stamina.

 

 Ticketing Information

All tickets for the 2025 Badminton Horse Trials must be purchased in advance; there will be no sales at the gate. The box office opened for priority booking on January 6th, with general sales commencing on January 13th.

Admission Prices:

• Wednesday: £20.00 (£22.50 after March 31st)
• Thursday & Friday: £29.50 (£32.00 after March 31st)
• Saturday (Cross-Country Day): £49.50 (£54.00 after March 31st)
• Sunday (Show Jumping Day): £25.50 (£28.50 after March 31st)
• Season Ticket (Wednesday–Sunday): £106.00 (£118.50 after March 31st)

https://www.badminton-horse.co.uk/badminton-2025-tickets/  

Additional Costs:

• Car Passes: £18.00 per day (£22.00 after March 31st) or £62.00 for the season (£72.00 after March 31st)
• Grandstand Seating: Reserved seats for dressage and show jumping range from £10.50 to £55.50, depending on the day and location.
• Children: Accompanied children aged 12 and under are admitted free of charge.

Accommodation Options

Camping:
The Badminton Campsite offers pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, starting at £330 for a small pitch (prices increase after March 31st). Each pitch includes two five-day admission badges and one vehicle pass.

Glamping:
For a more luxurious experience, The Badminton Retreat provides glamping accommodations within the estate grounds at Huntsman’s Close, offering proximity to the cross-country course and exclusive amenities. badmintonretreat.co.uk

Local Accommodations:
Numerous hotels and bed & breakfast options are available in the surrounding areas, catering to various preferences and budgets.

Charity of the Year: Guide Dogs

In 2025, the Badminton Horse Trials proudly support Guide Dogs as their Charity of the Year. This organization is dedicated to helping individuals with sight loss lead independent lives. Event attendees can learn more about their work and contribute to their mission during the event. herefordequestrian.co.uk

 

Mental Health Support: Riders Minds

Recognizing the importance of mental well-being in competitive sports, Badminton Horse Trials continues its partnership with Riders Minds, a mental health charity. They provide on-site support for riders and grooms, including a well-being hub staffed with counsellors, ensuring participants have access to necessary resources throughout the event. British Equestrian

Family-Friendly Activities and Shopping

Beyond the competition, Badminton offers a plethora of activities for attendees of all ages:

• Shopping Village: Explore over 500 trade stands offering equestrian gear, clothing, artisan products, and gourmet food. badmintonestate.com
• Children's Entertainment: The Shetland Pony Grand National and various displays provide fun and excitement for younger visitors.badminton-horse.co.uk+1badminton-horse.co.uk+1
• Food and Drink: A wide array of food stalls and hospitality options ensure that guests can enjoy delicious meals and refreshments throughout the event.

Planning Your Visit

Getting There:
Badminton Estate is accessible by car, with ample parking available (car passes required). For those using public transport, the nearest train stations are located in Chippenham and Bristol, with taxi services connecting to the estate.

What to Bring:

• Comfortable footwear for walking the grounds
• Weather-appropriate clothing (the event proceeds rain or shine)
• Binoculars for viewing distant parts of the cross-country course
• A picnic blanket or chairs for relaxation

Accessibility:
The event organizers strive to make Badminton accessible to all visitors, with designated parking, viewing areas, and facilities for those with disabilities.

Experience the Thrill of Badminton Horse Trials 2025

Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast, a family seeking a memorable day out, or someone looking to experience a quintessentially British event, the Mars Badminton Horse Trials 2025 offers something for everyone. From world-class competition to engaging activities and charitable initiatives, it's an event that celebrates the spirit of community, excellence, and the enduring partnership between horse and rider.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official Badminton Horse Trials website.