Badminton Horse Trials – 2021
May 1 depart (arrive London May 2), return May 10, 2021
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 will be 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 in spite of my many visits here, there are sights I have yet to explore.
Saturday, May 1: Usual U.S. Departure Day for London
Those traveling from the U.S. will depart today. We recommend flights into and out of Heathrow.
Sunday, May 2: 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 are several pubs in the neighborhood. You will also find Green Park and Piccadilly area shops and restaurants nearby. Join us for drinks this evening in the Caxton Bar prior to dinner.
Monday, May 3: London sightseeing at your leisure
Breakfast buffet is included each day of our program. Day tickets will be provided for you to enjoy sightseeing of London on Monday & Tuesday, enjoying its principle sights at your leisure on the Open Top Bus Tour shuttle, allowing you to get on and off at the various stops as you wish. (We have had excellent comments on this service).
Tuesday, May 4: Free time in London
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.
Wednesday, May 5: Off to Gloucestershire
Depart London this morning for Gloucestershire and Cirencester. I thought it would be interesting to do a round about route to view the “White Horse”, cut into the turf, perhaps dating to the Iceni (1st or 2nd C BC). At nearly 400 feet long, it is a notable landmark. Then on to Cirencester to deposit our bags and have time to lunch.
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.
We will gather for drinks in the bar prior to dinner this evening at the King’s Head. This hotel has been extensively refurbished and is now a solid 4-star hotel.
Thursday, May 6: Badminton Dressage begins
To Badminton this morning, private home to the Dukes of Beaufort, Masters of the Beaufort Hunt. During the Badminton 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 7: Badminton Dressage & the Beaufort Kennels
Return to Badminton this morning as dressage continues at the Badminton Horse Trials. We will be requesting a visit to the Beaufort Kennels, for those who wish, with an introduction to the hounds. Such a visit is a “gift of the Master” and done with his permission only. During one of the dressage days we can gather for a course walk.
Saturday, May 8: Cross Country Day
Departure today to be settled on cross country well in advance of the first horse on course. The Badminton Horse Trials course has always been one of the most challenging, going back to its beginning in 1949. You will find refreshment tents on the course and you can always watch important rides in the Members tent. There will be open seating in the main Grandstand, where there are usually several jumps.
Sunday, May 9: Horse Inspection, Special Presentations & Final Show Jumping & Prizes
If the police are allowing traffic to depart Badminton this morning, we will have an early coach departure for those wishing to take in the Horse inspection as well as a later departure. Breakfast will be 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 to the Badminton Horse Trials prior to dinner here at the hotel.
Monday, May 10: 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. Those departing from Gatwick should plan on a two-hour transfer from Heathrow and should not plan on flights earlier than 11:30.
Costs per person: $2,795 twin or double basis; $3,895 single basis
Program includes: 3 Nights London; 5 nights Cirencester; breakfast daily, 3 receptions and 3 dinners; London sightseeing, admissions and other sightseeing as outlined, admission and Member’s privileges at the Badminton Horse Trials and members seating for dressage reserved seating for show jumping; transfers, transportation as outlined and services of an Equestrian Tours host.
