Burghley Horse Trials has always one of my favourite events and was the first I went to as a child.
I’ve worked there professionally in various capacities since 2008 so it was exciting to read about some of the changes which they have lined up for 2026.
Tickets are now on sale for Defender Burghley Horse Trials 2026 (3-6 September) – and visitors to the Lincolnshire CCI5* can anticipate exciting upgrades to the shopping village of the event. These include a new shopping avenue and a relocated Insights Stage – hosting an array of big-name interviews – that will now sit at the heart of the event, next to the House Arena.
Defender Burghley is marking its 65th anniversary and alongside world-class eventing, Burghley’s exceptional setting in historic, Capability Brown-designed parkland is a great attraction for visitors. It is partly through its duty of care to the ancient trees in this landscape that this year’s site changes have come about.
Event Director Martyn Johnson said: “We look forward to welcoming visitors to enjoy the best human and equine athletes in the world competing over Derek di Grazia’s cross-country course; the legendary shopping village, Insights Stage and Main Arena masterclasses – as we strive to make each Burghley better than the last.”
Among the highlights of Defender Burghley this year will be the official retirement ceremony of one of the greatest event horses of recent decades, Ballaghmor Class, whose four CCI5* victories with Oliver Townend include Burghley in both 2017 and 2023. This will take place in the Main Arena on Sunday, 6 September.
As one of only seven CCI5* competitions around the globe, Defender Burghley always attracts the very top athletes, and ranks alongside Wimbledon and The Masters as a sporting “major”. The event offers superb shopping opportunities, delicious food and drink, elegant hospitality options and lots to entertain children and less-horsey members of the family.
The Avebury restaurant was launched to great acclaim in 2024, and table reservations for delicious breakfasts and lunches can be booked via the event website, as can high-class “glamping” in Burghley’s beautiful walled garden with Burghley Boutique. “Tea and the Trot-Up” on Wednesday, 3 September is back again, as is the fun-packed Family Zone, offering activities such as face-painting, dog agility, Miniature Defenders and hobby horses.
Membership and admission tickets are on sale at super advance rates, offering the best savings on the gate price, from 23 April.
Defender Burghley’s supported charity for 2026 is World Horse Welfare.
To see a full timetable to help you plan your trip to Defender Burghley and to purchase membership and general admission tickets, visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk.