Badminton Horse Trials – 2022
April 29 depart (arrive London April 30), return May 9, 2022
We have long enjoyed the Badminton Horse Trials and have taken quite a number of clients there over the years. Having had the experience, I think we put together a very nice program. We plan on including a garden visit at Highgrove House, home of Prince Charles and Lady Camilla (pending final confirmation). I hope that as you read on, you will agree.
We will have time in London as there is always more to see. The Hop-on-Hop off tour shuttle has proven hugely popular, and you will have a free day, perhaps choosing to visit Windsor or Winchester.
Friday, April 29 Usual U.S. Departure Day for London
Those traveling from the U.S. will depart today. We recommend flights into and out of Heathrow.
Saturday, April 30: Welcome to London
Easy and speedy transfer into London on the Heathrow Express. On arrival at the St Ermin’s Hotel, check in and relax. Light meals are available in the lounge and there Enjoy speedy transfer on the Heathrow Express Train to Paddington Station, then a short taxi to the Chesterfield Hotel. Check-in is generally in the early afternoon. You will, no doubt, find your way to Shephard Market, which used to be one of my favorite hide-a-ways. You will also find Green Park, Hyde Park and Piccadilly area shops and restaurants nearby. Join us for drinks this evening prior to dinner.
Sunday, May 1: London sightseeing at your leisure
Quite a lovely breakfast buffet is included each day of our program. Day tickets will be provided for you to enjoy sightseeing of London on Sunday and Monday, enjoying its principal sights at your leisure on the Hop on/Hop off tour shuttle service, allowing you to get on and off at the various stops as you wish.
Monday, May 2: Free time continues with Hop on/Hop Off Sightseeing
The day is free to enjoy. If you haven’t seen it, don’t miss the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace or the Horse Guard at Whitehall, both within easy walking distance. We will have the schedule in our final information letter. From there, you are a short walk to Piccadilly and the Tube lines to take you throughout London. Enjoy your day. Those wishing to enjoy an evening of London theater should purchase tickets in advance. There are a number of good on-line ticketing agencies.
Tuesday, May 3: Free day to explore, perhaps farther afield
You may wish to travel to Windsor to visit the town and Castle. (Please get entry tickets in advance). There is regular rail service. This would be a full day, 9 to 4:30 or so. (Cost with train and Castle admission will be approximately 30 pounds.)
Alternatively, you can join me on a visit to Winchester to visit Winchester Cathedral, view Winchester Collage, the Castle and visit the Hospital at St Cross. Founded in the 12-C., it continues as an Alms House today. The residents still wear the robes assigned by the original benefactors, black robes for 13 men under the gift of Henry of Blois and red for those of Cardinal Beaufort of Winchester. (Cost with train and admissions approx. 60 pounds). I believe we can still request the ‘dole’.
Wednesday, May 4: Off to Gloucestershire
Depart London this morning for Gloucestershire and Tetbury. My hope is that we will be able to visit the gardens of Highgrove House, the home of Prince Charles & Camellia, Duchess of Cornwall this afternoon. The gardens are extensive. The opening is dependent on the whether the Duke and Duchess are in residence.
Later, check in to our accommodations at the Pettifer’s Hotel in Crudwell. We will gather for drinks in the bar prior to dinner this evening. You will find its’ location, quite close to Badminton, to be convenient. With far less traffic as we return in the evening. Breakfast and dinner are included daily.
Thursday, May 5: Badminton Dressage begins
To Badminton this morning, private home to the Dukes of Beaufort, Masters of the Beaufort Hunt. During the horse trials we will enjoy Member’s Privileges, with access to a restricted area which includes dining with a variety of offers, several bars, closed circuit television and a garden area overlooking the arena. When you have time, the shops at Badminton are extensive.
Friday, May 6: Badminton Dressage & the Beaufort Kennels
Return to Badminton this morning as dressage continues. We will be requesting a visit to the Beaufort Kennels with an introduction to the hounds, for those who wish. Such a visit is a “gift of the Master” and done with his permission only. During one of the dressage days, you may want to walk the course.
Saturday, May 7: Cross Country Day
Departure today to be settled on cross country well in advance of the first horse on course. The Badminton course has always been one of the most challenging, going back to its beginning in 1949 with Col. Weldon, director and course designer. You will find refreshment tents on the course, and you can always watch important rides in the Members tent or in the stands, where there will be several fences and the finish line.
Sunday, May 8: Horse Inspection, Special Presentations & Final Show Jumping & Prizes
As the police allow only one way traffic arriving Badminton this morning or departing in the evening, we will have an early coach departure to take in the Horse inspection prior to the first horse on course. Breakfast is offered in the Member’s Tent. In addition to the Show Jumping, there will be special presentations, band performances and a presentation of the Beaufort Hounds.
This evening we gather for a farewell reception prior to dinner.
Monday, May 9: Depart for Heathrow & Home
We have an early start today to get us to Heathrow by 7:00 in time for 9:30 (or later) flights. We are requesting that the hotel have a light breakfast available for us, so that you will be somewhat fortified before we depart.
