The world-renowned Dodson & Horrell International Horse Show returns to Bolesworth this month and promises to be the perfect summer’s day out for the all the family.
Taking place from 29 June to 3 July, the show is a calendar highlight for many, not just for its amazing displays of equestrian sport, but for its shopping village, food and drink offering, entertainment and much more.
Set in the picturesque Cheshire countryside against the stunning backdrop of Bolesworth Castle, this is your chance to get up close to world-class horses and riders for five days of international-level showjumping.
This year, guests will also get to brush shoulders with the stars, including former champion jockey Sir AP McCoy and retired England footballer Michael Owen, at Thursday’s Speed and Style event. This key attraction will see well-known names and celebrities from the world of sport, horse racing and equestrian teaming up for a competitive race which will involve team tagging from the equestrian arena on horse-back to a four-wheeled racecourse that winds between the show jumps – with the fastest combined time winning the class.
Tickets are being snapped up as the event draws closer. Day tickets and hospitality packages are available online, offering a full schedule of evening entertainment including DJs and bands and dining options.
Shopaholics will be wowed by the trade stand area, which boasts a variety of shops and showcases a fantastic range of products from high-end equestrian outlets, unusual giftware and beautiful items for the home and garden.
Visitors will also be spoilt for choice when it comes to food, with everything from VIP Hospitality and ringside Champagne PIAFF bar, to a hog roast and doughnuts available.
Each day features an action-packed line up, showcasing Longines World Ranking international Showjumping, featuring top riders including Olympic athletes Robert Smith, Will & Pippa Funnell, Holly Smith, and rising stars Jack Whitaker and Joe Stockdale.
The International Horse Show kicks off on Wednesday (29 June) with dressage, the first of the International Showjumping and the preview for Friday night’s auction, followed by a Celebrity Ride & Drive with Michael Owen and Sir AP McCoy on Thursday. DJs and live entertainment then begin on Friday, with live entertainment from Disco Classical being the party highlight on Saturday night taking place after the puissance high jumping competition – always a highlight of the jumping. The show then concludes with the spectacular Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth Grand Prix, Mini Major Pairs Relay and International Amateur Final on Sunday.
There is also a whole host of family entertainment and attractions across the weekend including Shire horses, donkey rides, Meet and Greets with top riders, and a horse simulator.
This year, a Family Dog Show & Dog Agility take place on Saturday and Sunday, featuring qualifiers for the Agility Challenge Final sponsored by Country Shows Agility. For those less competitive, there is also the Have a Go Agility and Fun Dog Show taking place on both days.
Nina Barbour, managing director at Bolesworth, said: “This is the first equestrian event of the year at Bolesworth and what better way to start the Season of Events than with the Dodson & Horrell International Horse Show.
“We are thrilled to welcome both experienced riders and those who will be making their debut at Bolesworth. The team are also incredibly excited to partner with Michael Owen and Sir AP McCoy to make this one of our most memorable events to date.
“We pride ourselves on the fact that there is something for everyone here, from horse and dog enthusiasts to families and couples looking for a fun day out, soaking up the competitive atmosphere whilst enjoying the food, drink and shopping opportunities.”
The show provides the perfect opportunity to find out what else is going on at this year’s Season of Events, including CarFest North, summer outdoor movies, sunflower picking, maze, Halloween Circus, Fireworks and Christmas. To find out more information and purchase tickets, visit www.bolesworth.com/events.