Highclere has a reputation as a mini Badminton, both for the look of its cross-country course and the wide variety of trade stands which make shopping a key attraction – jewellery, cookware, smart leather goods, silk flowers and books can all be purchased in addition to a whole host of equestrian products. There is also an emphasis on dogs and pets, with a dedicated arena for fun dog shows and terrier racing – all open to visiting canines – as well as spectacles such as the Stallions of Substance: a display of tricks and stunts which demonstrates an almost unbelievable rapport between horses and humans. Of course, all of this is subsidiary to the eventing, where more than 500 horses will compete in classes from Pre-Novice to Advanced Intermediate, culminating in the final of the Mitsubishi Motors Stately Homes Challenge on Monday 25th August.
Adult spectator passes are £10 with children and car parking free. Also, discounted tickets can be purchased in advance from www.seetickets.com.
The location is 5 miles south of Newbury off the A34 and the A343. Follow brown tourist signs to Highclere Castle and enter through main gate.
M3: Exit at junction 8, head west on A303 towards Andover. Exit A303 at the A34 junction and proceed north on A34 towards Newbury. Travel north for 15 miles, exit at Tothill Services junction on A34.
M4: Exit at junction 13, head south on A34 on Newbury bypass towards Southampton. Travel south for 5 miles, exit at Tothill Services junction.
Follow the brown tourist signs for Highclere Castle and Stud.
Web Address:
www.highclereequestrian.com