With such a jam-packed timetable at Royal Windsor Horse Show, I’ve asked Horse & Hound’s editors to pick out their schedule highlights so that you know what you really shouldn’t miss. Having grown up in the town next door, I’ve been to Royal Windsor Horse Show countless times and can confirm it’s a fantastic day out for all ages.
H&H showjumping editor Jennifer Donald agrees: “I love Royal Windsor, but having seen Royal Windsor through my young son’s eyes, I now realise what a spectacle it is for kids, too.
“The Defender Shetland Grand National and the DAKS Pony Club mounted games are so much fun and anything that involves riders performing acrobatics on horseback at high speed is an instant hit, so make sure to take your seats for annual favourites Azerbaijan – Land Of Fire this year.
“While showjumping is my main focus, I love staying to watch the various other championships being decided in the main ring – nowhere else in the world have I witnessed every shape, size, breed, colour and type of horse in one place and I absolutely love it!
“You’ll even spot the international showjumpers drawn in by the wonderful array of other competitions and displays that fill the main ring and I’m equally enchanted by the presentation of the Household Cavalry best trooper award and best gun teams.”
Royal Windsor showjumping highlights
Jennifer says that Sunday’s Rolex grand prix is her “must-see showjumping class”.
“Every year, the jump-off develops into an absolute thriller and it’s a rare chance to see the world’s leading riders competing in a top tier event in Great Britain – and the mega prize money on offer means everything is at stake.
“I’d also recommend getting up early on the Thursday to pick out some stars of the future in the Foxhunter class, with the Walwyn novice championship later in the day a superb showcase for the best six-year-olds, while Saturday’s under-25 class is a chance to watch the country’s best young riders in action.”
Royal Windsor showing highlights
The hunter and hack championships are two of the oldest championships at Windsor, so traditionally important to the show, explains H&H showing editor Bethan Simons.
“They also have some of the biggest names in showing competing in them, so it’s often a chance to glimpse some showing heavyweights do battle.”
But it’s not just the big names that are a draw for Bethan.
“Personally, I love a hogged cob as I think the best have a jolly, cheeky glint in their eyes, which I find endearing, so I’d recommend watching them if you can.
“Plus, as a native pony exhibitor and fan, I always like to catch the in-hand and ridden M&M classes as they present a unique chance to see representatives of each of our native breeds. The in-hand championship is a particularly lovely spectacle with the winners and champions trotting into the arena.
“If you’re keen to see one of The King’s horses, keep an eye on the entries in the Cleveland Bay and the Retraining of Racehorses classes.”
Other schedule highlights
The Pol Roger Meet of the British Driving Society tours the castle grounds before heading into the main arena.
Driving
Carriage driving isn’t something you see every day, but at Windsor you’re in for a real treat. Action ranges from the marathon phase of the FEI combined driving for teams of four horses, which requires the drivers to navigate obstacles around the park at speed, to the The Pol Roger Meet of the British Driving Society, where you’ll see a fantastic array of traditional turnout.
New for 2026 is the Defender Drive & Drive, which is an exciting head-to-head contest that will see a four-in-hand carriage go up against a top-of-the-range four-wheel drive car. Renowned carriage driver and stuntman Dan Naprous will take the reins of a four-in-hand team of horses, competing directly against a Defender OCTA driven by a professional driver, as both tackle the same course in a timed challenge.
Polo
There’s a special International Exhibition polo match between Azerbaijan vs Guards Polo Club on Saturday 16 May, which is the only evening competition of the week. You don’t need a strong grasp of the rules to enjoy polo – it’s fast, exciting and will be a hot competition.
Don’t miss a chance to witness live recordings of the Talk Horse podcast with hosts Pippa Funnell and Tristan Phipps at the Performance Hub. Credit: Royal Windsor Horse Show
Performance hub
Here, the world-class competition seen in the arena is unpacked, explored and brought to life, offering visitors rare access to the people, expertise and traditions that define one of the most prestigious events in the international equestrian calendar.
Legendary event rider Pippa Funnell and Made In Chelsea’s Tristan Phipps will be hosting a live recording of their Talk Horse podcast on Thursday 14 May, which promises insight, honesty and plenty of personality. Leading international showjumpers will join the line up across the week, offering a first-hand perspective from the very top of the sport.
For YouTube fans, The Hub will also welcome equestrian influencer This Esme for a meet and greet on Sunday 17 May. This is set to be one of the standout moments of the week for younger visitors, along with daily LeMieux Hobby Horse sessions for another interactive and playful element.
Time to get your Royal Windsor Horse Show tickets! View the full schedule at rwhs.co.uk
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