Chatsworth International Horse Trials return after Covid-enforced hiatus

After a Covid enforced two-year hiatus, Chatsworth International Horse Trials are back in the saddle and ready to run from May 13 to 15, 2022.

Anticipation is building for the elegant dressage, the fascinating show jumping and the gripping cross country, where amateur horse riders compete alongside world class competitors.

Among the star names to look out for are the FEI World No. 1 Event Rider and Tokyo team gold medallist Oliver Townend and much decorated Olympian Ian Stark OBE on Chatsworth Diamond, a horse owned by the Duchess of Devonshire and bred at Chatsworth.

The Duchess has owned event horses for many years, including the 1999 Badminton winner Jaybee and the 1999 Chatsworth winner Stanwick Ghost, both also ridden by Ian Stark, so hopes will be high for a good showing from the pair.

Patricia Clifton, of Chatsworth International Horse Trials, said: “We’re delighted to be staging these wonderful three days of action once again. The event never disappoints, offering something for the enthusiast and the first time visitor looking for a great day out. If you’ve never been before, I would recommend the Ice Pond as a vantage point giving a spectacular view of the whole site, and you can always see the action on the big screen located in the food court. Families will have plenty to do in our children’s area and don’t miss the family fun dog show if you want to get involved!”

The British scurry and trials driving will see miniature ponies take on large cobs as their drivers tackle an obstacle course against the clock. The competitions are family friendly and the rules are easy to follow.

Alongside the competitive action, there will be entertainment for the whole family including a have-a-go dog agility, a family fun dog show, birds of prey demos and a dog and duck show.

Canine lifesavers, the UK Rescue Bears, will be putting on displays showing the skills of these Newfoundland dogs, as well as offering the chance to have a hug and a photo with the gentle giants.

Nobby the Norfolk Horn will stand centre stage for The Sheep Show as his woolly friends are introduced to their podiums, all to their own theme tunes.

Face painting, circus skills and pottery painting are also on offer, while the shopping village, with more than 100 high quality stands and a fine food walk, is perfect for those looking to treat themselves.

Early bird tickets are available up until May 8, 2022. Gate tickets for Friday are adult £15, child £10; Saturday/Sunday adult £30 per day, child £10 per day. All tickets include free parking and child prices are for ages 5–15 inclusive.

For bookings or more details, go to www.chatsworth.org/horse-trials

This year’s horse trails are being sponsored for the first time by Walker & Morland. The wellness brand Walker & Morland uses natural ingredients to offer relief and recovery from sports.