Don't miss the Agria Royal International Horse Show

The Royal International Horse Show first took place in 1907, making it one of the oldest events of its kind. This year marks an exciting new era for this five-star show, under the new title sponsorship of Agria.

There is so much to enthral and entertain at the Agria Royal International Horse Show, whichever day you choose to attend. Wednesday is all about the prestigious British Showjumping Winter Finals, while the international showjumping action gets underway on Thursday with the Royal International Vase and the Royal International Trophy, before the country’s leading event riders do battle in the Ashby Underwriting Eventers’ Challenge.

On Friday spectators have their only chance to see the Brits compete as a team on home turf, in the Agria Nations Cup of Great Britain. This team competition will see the British riders face tough competition from some of the world’s leading showjumping nations, including Germany, France and Sweden. Saturday is the historic Queen Elizabeth II Cup, a coveted national championship, while Sunday’s grand finale is the King George V Gold Cup, a trophy that has been won by so many of the best riders in history.

Showing is a huge part of this fixture, with riders competing up and down the country to pick up a qualifying ticket to compete at this show. It is widely regarded as the highlight of the summer showing season, with hundreds of the very best horses and ponies heading to Hickstead each year.  

The show is one of the highlights of the Sussex social calendar, especially Ladies’ Day on the Saturday – where the best dressed guests have a chance of winning luxury spa breaks at some of the county’s leading hotels. The extensive shopping village is a big draw, plus the Village Green area with its street food stalls, a funfair and a live entertainment stage. There’s also a vast range of bars, restaurants and hospitality options to make your visit truly memorable.

Tickets start from £20 with advance discounts and concessions available; including free admission to all under-15s when booked in advance – click here to visit the Box Office.