More riders hunting this season
The future of hunting continues to look healthy with nearly 90% of H&H Online users stating that they plan to hunt either on horseback or on foot this year.
More than 3,500 users responded to our recent survey, which asked “Are you planning to hunt this season?” with 84% intending to follow hounds on horseback. A further 5% described themselves as foot followers.
The survey attracted a marked increase in levels of response compared to a similar survey last year, which only attracted some 1,300 votes. Levels of active support for hunting among the equestrian community are also up compared to the 66% who intended to hunt last year.
These findings bear out other recent research which has shown an increase in levels of support to ensure hunts remain viable despite the ban.
Countryside Alliance spokesperson Tim Bonner said: “This survey by H&H Online is yet more evidence that the Hunting Act has succeeded only in creating more support for hunting. Hunting has changed through the long political campaign and is now more open and accessible than ever before.”
Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.