Bramham Horse Trials, Yorkshire England
June 3 – 12, 2023
I am delighted that we will finally be going to Yorkshire and to the ancient city of York, founded by the Romans and occupied by the Saxons, Vikings and finally, the Normans. It is a lovely, historic city, with the York Minster, largest medieval cathedral in England and the city walls. Our accommodations will be in “the Shambles”, the best-preserved medieval street in York, lined with interesting shops, pubs, and restaurants.
After several days of enjoying the city and a day of visiting nearby sites in Yorkshire, we will be off to the Bramham estate and the Bramham Horse Trials. The course designer has been Ian Stark, and we hope he continues. Evenings back in York give you time to enjoy the city.
Saturday, June 3: Depart for York
Unless you decide to spend time in Britain or Europe prior to the Bramham program, you will depart today for Leeds. There are various connections into Leeds or you may choose to fly into London and travel the two hour rail journey directly to York.
Sunday, June 4: Welcome, the Medieval town awaits you.
Clear customs on arrival. We will have several transfers arranged. You’ll find our delightful accommodation at the Hotel Indigo located in the Shambles, a short walk for the Minster, but with so much to explore in route. Drinks reception this evening followed by dinner.
Monday, June 5: Walking tour of York
A full English breakfast will start each day here in York. Today join us for a walking tour of the city, including the magnificent Minster, completed in 1472, on the site of three previous churches.
Walk the Shambles and Stonegate, dating to Roman times, the City Walls, and get to know the other sites you can visit. After lunch, visit the Jorvik Viking Center, exploring pre-Norman York.
Tuesday, June 6: Exploring Newby Hall and Castle Howard
Off for the countryside and to two interesting great houses, quite different. For Downton Abbey, the producers moved Highclere Castle from Gloucestershire to Yorkshire, not an easy task! You will find that Newby Hall seem the perfect setting for the Crawley’s. A lovely house and garden.
After our visit continue to Castle Howard where we have lunch prior to our visit. Many might remember this great house as the setting for the PBS series, Brideshead Revisited. The house is a great baroque palace and is surrounded by gardens, monuments, and lakes. An 18-C bon vivant noted that a pheasant at Castle Howard lives better than a duke elsewhere. You might well agree. Spend the afternoon here before returning to York.
Wednesday, June 7: Your day in York
Today is yours to enjoy the city, walk the city walls, visit the museums, shops, perhaps enjoy a nice morning coffee watching the city carry on.
Thursday and Friday, June 8 and 9: Dressage at the Bramham Horse Trails begins
Transfer to Bramham this morning where we have Member’s admission. The Member’s area and Marque offer a bistro and bar and a lawn area overlooking the ring.
In addition to the 4* event, there will be many other competitions and shows, including a stallion class, wonderful Pony Club competitions with challenging horsemanship, hunter shows (not the American variety) and BHS jumping competitions. You will find it all both interesting and entertaining.
There are extensive shops and a tempting Food Tent with local goods. We are planning to arrange a course walk with one of the officials during the day. The best place to watch the Dressage will be from the Member’s lawn area.
On return to York, perhaps enjoy a refreshment with friends before settling in for dinner. We seem to have a tradition of gathering in the bar or lounge to tell stories and talk over our day. Horse people make for pleasant fellowship.
Saturday, June 10: Cross Country Day
Early start today so you can get settled before the first horse on course. Find a comfortable spot (perhaps in the Member’s tent) or follow along with the horses as they take on the course. We hope to see Ian Stark, the current course designer, in 2023.
Sunday, June 11: Show Jumping Finals
Perhaps a more leisurely morning as we depart for the final day at Bramham’s with show jumping and awards. There will also be other competitions and shows, so you can enjoy a full day.
On return to York, join us for cocktails prior to a farewell dinner with your friends, old and new.
Monday, June 12: Transfers to Leeds for flights home
Join our transfer to Leeds Airport, this morning, for your flights home. I hope that you enjoyed the city of York, the Horse Trials, and your experience with Equestrian Tours.
Thank you and safe travels
