Saturday: We will make an early morning departure, and having made a stop on the motorway, we should arrive at Badminton around midday. Badminton is a must for anyone interested in eventing, as it is the biggest and most prestigious 3 day event in the world, attracting the cream of international competitors. We will be able to see an afternoon of dressage. The cross-country enthusiasts will have plenty of time to walk the course while it is quiet, and the trade stands will be quieter too! At the end of the afternoon, we will make our way to our hotel where dinner awaits.
Sunday: We will leave our hotel after breakfast, and should arrive at Badminton before 10 am, well before the first competitor sets off on the endurance phase. We will have plenty of time to walk the course and witness the thrills and spills of this exciting phase of the competition. At the end of the day, we will return to the hotel and a relaxing dinner.
Monday: Today is the culmination of the event with the vital showjumping phase. Those horses which have survived the rigorous veterinary inspection will compete in reverse order, guaranteeing an nailbiting finish to the competition. We will arrive early at Badminton to give everyone some shopping time. There are more than 200 trade stands, including a huge craft marquee. We have £14 tickets for the showjumping and of course, the final presentation. After the presentation, we will make our way back to the coach for our homeward journey. We should arrive back in the local areas between 9 pm and midnight.
YOUR HOTELS: Hilton Swindon.
This 4 star hotel are is conveniently located for Badminton. It is modern and comfortable, with good restaurant and bar facilities, plus super leisure club with swimming pool, sauna and fitness centre.
