Defender Burghley Horse Trials
Defender
Highlights
5* Eventing Competition
You'll see top-level eventing at the only CCI5* competition in Great Britain. Riders and horses show their skill in dressage, cross-country, and show jumping.
Over 60 Years of Tradition
The Burghley Horse Trials started in 1961. This competition is one of the most important in British eventing and has been for over six decades.
More than 600 Exhibitors
Explore the largest eventing gathering in the region. Hundreds of exhibitors showcase their equestrian products and services.
For the Whole Family
Bring your whole family and spend a day at the competition. There are activities for all ages, so everyone can experience equestrian sport.
What is Defender Burghley Horse Trials?
The Defender Burghley Horse Trials are an eventing competition held annually in September 2026 at Burghley House in Stamford, England. This event is a traditional fixture on the equestrian calendar, known for its demanding cross-country course and top-level competition. Spectators can enjoy the atmosphere of a five-star eventing competition, watching elite riders and horses in dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. The event is a ticketed affair, offering a full experience for enthusiasts of the sport and anyone looking for a day out on the grounds of Burghley House.
Defender Burghley Horse Trials at a Glance
What do you need to know beforehand?
What happens at Defender Burghley Horse Trials?
The Defender Burghley Horse Trials in 2026 feature four days of eventing competition, including demanding tests in dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. The event opens at 8:00 AM daily, and the fair runs to 4:00 PM on Thursday and Sunday, and extends into the evening until 7:30 PM on Friday and Saturday. Beyond the main competition, visitors can enjoy a wide array of festive stalls offering artisan gifts and decorations, along with delicious food and drink options. You can also book a special Afternoon Tea experience in the Great Hall.
Where does Defender Burghley Horse Trials take place?
The Defender Burghley Horse Trials take place at Burghley House in Stamford, England. The beautiful courtyards and grounds of this historic estate provide a unique setting for the event. Visitors will find the fairgrounds transformed with festive chalets and marquees, all adorned with sparkling decorations. While the shopping areas offer step-free access, some parts of the courtyards have cobbled and uneven surfaces.
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Discover the region
You reach Burghley House by car via the A1(M) and A428. The nearest train station is Stamford, about 6 miles away. A shuttle service operates from Stamford train station to the event site on event days.
For spectators, the Defender Burghley Horse Trials offer a full-day experience with various activities. Entry is ticketed, and tickets must be booked in advance online; no sales will be available at the gate. To manage crowds, you will need to book an arrival timeslot when purchasing your ticket. Beyond the thrilling eventing competition, you can explore numerous stalls, enjoy festive food and drinks, and even take a ride on a Victorian carousel. If you want a special treat, consider booking an Afternoon Tea in the Great Hall, which requires a separate reservation and a valid fair ticket.
For families, the Defender Burghley Horse Trials provide a dedicated children's area with activities and a playground. This ensures that younger visitors have plenty to do while adults enjoy the competition and festive atmosphere. Face painting and other family-friendly entertainment are also provided, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages.
For participants, the Defender Burghley Horse Trials require advance registration for all competitors. The event, a CCI5* competition, attracts top riders and horses in eventing. Registration: Riders interested in competing must register via the official website. Accommodation: A variety of accommodation options are available in the local area, including hotels, B&Bs, and campsites. Due to high demand during the event, early booking is strongly recommended.
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Ticket refunds follow the event's terms and conditions. Find detailed cancellation policies on the ticketing page.
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Burghley House
Burghley House
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