Burghley Horse Trials, Stamford, England
August 31 – September 9, 2024
We are delighted to be offering our program to the Burghley Horse Trials in 2024, where Derek di Grazia is continuing to design the challenging courses that have always been the hallmark of the event. As a spectator, I have always enjoyed Burghley, the event, the setting, the Members’ enclosure, as well as our hotels.
Saturday, August 31: Depart for London
Unless you are spending time in Britain or Europe, you will depart for London today.
Sunday, September 1: Welcome to London
On arrival proceed through the Immigration and Customs formalities and (we suggest) proceed to the Heathrow Express train to London Paddington and taxi to the Chesterfield Hotel. We will be gathering this evening for drinks and dinner.
Monday & Tuesday, September 2 and 3: Sightseeing London
We have found that the best way to see London is by the Hop On/Hop Off sightseeing coaches. You will have passes for the free days to get to the various sights. Advanced tickets are needed for all the important sights these days, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Windsor Castle.
Wednesday, September 4: To Cambridge and Peterborough
Depart London this morning for Cambridge and then on to Peterborough and our accommodation for the rest of the week. In Cambridge, we will meet our guide for a fascinating tour of the city, including a visit to King’s College Chapel and the grounds of one of the colleges.
Later arrive in Peterborough and the Bull Hotel, an old coaching inn in the city center. After checking in to your executive rooms, join us for drinks in the bar. Dinner is included each evening of our stay.
Thursday and Friday, September 5 & 6: Dressage at Burghley
We depart each morning to arrive at Burghley for the start of Dressage. As we will have Members’ privileges, we will have access to the Members’ only seats for Dressage (open seating, so settle in early). The Market Place has extensive shops and opportunities for some local treats.
You will find the Members’ tent area a comfortable place to gather. There is usually a nice buffet, bar and sandwich options. The tent also has closed circuit television so that you can watch the action there, with both the Dressage and XC with commentary.
Saturday, September 7: Cross Country Day
Now we get to see Derek’s challenge, as we follow the riders around the course (or on closed circuit. There are usually big screens around the course as well as in the stadium, where the final jumps are located. The score board is posted as results come in. There you will see which fences are causing the most difficulties.
Sunday, September 8: Show Jumping Finals
If there are requests, we will offer two shuttles to Burghley today. One for those wishing to see the final horse inspection and one for those enjoying a leisurely breakfast and later departure. Jumping usually begins at 10:00, with the top 25 riding in the afternoon.
Following final presentations, return to the Bull for drinks and dinner, celebrating an exciting 2024 Burghley.
Monday, September 9: Early departure to Heathrow
We plan on arriving at Heathrow by 7:00 in time for flights after 9:30.
Costs person:
Twin or double: $3,095; single $3,995
Includes: 8 nights hotel accommodations with breakfast daily, one reception and dinner in London, 2 receptions and dinner daily in Peterborough; Members’ admission to the Burghley Horse Trials; sightseeing, transfers and transportation as outlined; services of you Equestrian Tours host.
