Affordable family fun at Hickstead

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable day out for your family during the summer holidays, then look no further than Hickstead!

The Longines Royal International Horse Show, which runs from 27-31 July, offers free admission to all under-15s when accompanied by an adult, when booked before 22 July. With general admission tickets for adults costing £20 and concessions available, plus a 10% discount applying to all tickets bought in advance, a trip to Hickstead is a good value means of entertaining the family this summer.

“We know keeping your family entertained during the school holidays can become expensive, which is why we’ve extended the child’s free admission to everyone 14 and under,” explains Hickstead Director Lizzie Bunn. 

After 22 July, the 10% discount ends and children's tickets go up to £10, though admission for under-4s remains free throughout. 

More than three thousand horses and ponies of all shapes and sizes are due to compete at this historic horse show, which features international showjumping, championship showing, carriage driving, arena eventing and lots more. It’s your chance to see the very best riders in the world compete here in the famous Longines International Arena, and to also see the most beautiful equines strut their stuff in the show ring – think Crufts, but for horses! Hickstead has two huge open grandstands with free seating, so get there in plenty of time to find the best spot from which to watch the action.

Hickstead is a must-visit for any equestrian fan, but there is lots on offer for all members of the family. A new Village Green area includes a myriad of entertainment options, including ‘Chariot Racing’ – where contestants get to race round a track on specially-adapted chariots, and see who can complete the course in the fastest time. A crafting area is bound to keep youngsters entertained, as will the fun fair. There will also be some free family games to play, as well as loads of brilliant food and drink options, all surrounded by colourful bunting to give that village fete effect.

Ladies’ Day takes place on the Saturday of the show (30 July), when the best dressed guests are selected to come into the Longines International Arena for the final judging. The prizes for the top three ladies are superb, including a stay at the luxury Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa including dinner and spa treatments for the winner; a stay at the South Lodge Exclusive Hotel & Spa including dinner and spa treatments for the runner up, or a Chefs Tasting menu for two at Due South in Brighton for the second runner-up.

Hickstead has a whole range of bars and eateries to suit every taste and budget, from food stalls and pop-up bars up to fine dining in the hospitality areas. Guests are also very welcome to bring their own picnic and settle down to watch the country’s best horses compete in the scenic West Sussex countryside.

Book your tickets now.