Bolesworth International Horse Show

Day three of the 2023 Bolesworth International on 16 June 2023 saw an amazing mix of sport and entertainment under the Cheshire summer sun.

The Dodson & Horrell 1.50m jump off took place as the second qualifier for Sunday’s Cavago CSI3* Grand Prix, and it was a win for Graham Gillespie riding Veneno. An exciting jump off saw ten combinations come forward with Christopher Burton in runner up spot riding Chedington Hazy Toulana and Tim Gredley in third riding Imperial Hbf.

Check out the full results here.

Tickets for the weekend are still available by clicking here. Save 20% by buying online or pay on the gate!

THOUSANDS of people descended on Bolesworth Castle for a sun-soaked family spectacular.

The new-look Bolesworth International has been a massive hit with visitors since doors opened on Wednesday.

And there is still plenty left to enjoy before the unmissable five-day event ends this Sunday evening.

Crowds flocked to the 6,000-acre Tattenhall estate – on the border of North Wales and Cheshire – and enjoyed a busy timetable of international equestrian competitions and lifestyle attractions with special guests including broadcaster, author and journalist Louise Minchin, Ernst and Young tax leader Victoria Price, and Wrexham AFC CEO Fleur Robinson, who fronted a sold-out Women in Business lunch and Q&A presented by HM3 Legal today (Thursday).

“I’ve been here many times, it’s a beautiful place – absolutely immaculate – and I love it,” said Louise, who also discussed the release of her new book, Fearless.

Reflecting on a whirlwind season which included promotion from the National League, backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Fleur added: “It’s fantastic how the owners have invested in the club and the community.

“It’s amazing to be a part of it and the interest and growth has been incredible. The club has seen turnover rise from £2.5m to £20m and as part of their mission statement they made it clear they wanted to develop the stadium, increase crowds, and make a difference in the community.

“They are also aiming for the Premier League. There are no major timescales attached to this but it’s the ultimate ambition.”

Thursday also featured an A-List Auction and Gala night with Gallagher and a Trooping the Colour charity park ride in aid of the RDA (Rising for the Disabled) with Sir Lee Pearson CBE, ahead of Friday’s Business Day, where a networking session with horseracing legend Sir A P McCoy and former England and Liverpool striker Michael Owen will be among the highlights.

Bolesworth’s Managing Director Nina Barbour says the “incredible response” from the public means they are well on track to achieve 250,000 annual visitors ahead of the Castle’s 200^th anniversary in 2028.

“The Estate has been a hive of activity since the launch on Wednesday, with crowds of people from across the country joining the celebrations,” said Nina.

“Show jumping in the main arena has been world class, and well contested, with some of the top names taking part.

“The crowds have loved it, the standard has been unbelievably high and it was great to see a female winner in Faye Adams.”

She added: “The business and networking events have also been well attended, and I would like to thank all our special guests for being a part of what has been the most packed programme we have ever put together.”

The coming days will also include live music, when The Brand New Heavies, DJs Trevor Nelson and Phoebe D-Abo, and Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ Band take to the stage.

An extensive shopping village and food and drink outlets look to be even busier over the weekend as tickets continue to sell rapidly, and families have been enjoying a raft of activities from pony rides and land and water zorbing, to FMX and BMX stunt displays, a wildlife petting zoo, beekeeping, falconry, dog training, fairground, action horses, barbecue masterclasses and more.

EV and Hybrid vehicle experience zones have also proven popular, with nine leading brands available to test drive on and off site.

“We have had the most amazing few days but there is still so much more to come so book your tickets soon – don’t miss out!”

Bolesworth International runs until Sunday (June 18). For the latest news and information and to book tickets, visit the website www.bolesworth.com/international or call 01829 782210.

Day two of the 2023 Bolesworth International was an action-packed festival of equestrian.

Jonathan Smyth riding Mulvin Lui couldn’t be beaten as he tackled the first of two Grand Prix qualifiers, sponsored by HM3 Legal and expertly designed by Javier (Chape) Trenor. 88 combinations came forward for the class which set the scene for a weekend of world-class showjumping. Jonathan was closely followed by Emma Stoker riding Daisy and George Whitaker riding Peanut.

Click here to read the full Thursday results. 

Nearly 200 horses and riders dressed up for the Trooping the Colour themed park ride which took place through the morning around the Bolesworth Estate. The ride was in aid of the Riding for the Disabled Association and raised over £2,500. Prizes were presented by RDA Representatives, Ambassadors Joe Stockdale and Evie Toombes, and included the best dressed rider and highest fundraiser.

The stage is set for an unbelievable weekend of live music! Fridays see Rick Parfitt Jr & The RPJ Band take to the stage with DJ Phoebe D’Abo following on the decks to bring the summer festival vibe to Bolesworth. Saturday is for the 90’s lovers with The Brand New Heavies and DJ Trevor Nelson getting the party started.

If you’d like to join us for a fantastic weekend of sport, live music, entertainment and much more in the glorious summer sun, visit www.bolesworth.com/international and get tickets; you can buy on the gate but it’s 20% cheaper in advance online!

The opening day of the 2023 Bolesworth International started spectacularly on 14 June 2023.

Alex Bragg set off at an unbeatable pace with experienced campaigner Quindiva expertly navigating the tricky JCL Insurance Brokers Eventing Grand Prix course, set by Andrew Heffernan, taking place in the Main International Arena.

The second place prize was secured by Gemma Stevens riding Santiago Bay, with New Zealand’s Caroling Powell on Greenacres Special Cavalier rounding out the podium.

Click here for the full results.

Emma Stoker and Q Seven took the win in the opening Hird & Partners 1.35m CSI3* class of the show, putting in a very fast time to narrowly take the lead by 0.12 seconds from runner-up Carmen Edwards riding Garou Pommex Z. Third place went to Annabel Shields riding Elgrando PS. Tomorrow gets serious as we see the top International riders take on the first of two qualifiers for the Cavago Grand Prix on Sunday, it’s all to play for so make sure you have your tickets!

For full results of all the opening showjumping classes click here.

Tickets are still available for the remainder of the show at www.bolesworth.com/international.

Women in Business Day takes place this Thursday, and the latest addition to our panel is truely inspiring…

Since Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney purchased our near-neighbours Wrexham AFC in 2021, they’ve become one of the most talked-about football clubs in the world. They recently celebrated their triumphant return to the football league!

Shortly after the take-over, the Hollywood stars picked former Burton Albion Commercial Director Fleur Robinson to be their new CEO and manage the club day-to-day and we’re delighted to confirm Fleur will join the panel for our Women in Business Day this Thursday, 15 June to discuss her career in football, working with Ryan and Rob and much more!

Fleur Robinson

Fleur’s pathway to CEO started in the home dressing room at Burton Albion, where her father, Ben Robinson, has been chairman over a span of some 45 years. She followed in her father’s footsteps and is now one of the most prominent female executives in professional football.

A busy few months have ensued since being appointed by her Hollywood bosses in March. From negotiating Wrexham’s debut in Fifa 22 – the first-ever non-league club to be included in the game – to navigating the fly-on-the-wall cameras capturing a docu-series about the takeover, ‘Welcome To Wrexham’ (a good watch on Netflix!)

As the first black female CEO of a professional football club, Fleur was named on football’s prestigious Black List for influential role models within the national game. It is the second time she has appeared on the list and, while she says that “people don’t particularly see me as being a woman of colour,” some of the experiences of her father remain etched in her mind.

“Certainly my father has probably encountered some negativity in boardrooms,” she says. “People going to their male white colleagues first to shake hands. It’s quite sad that we haven’t seen that diversity within boardrooms, or football clubs. I’m a believer that you have to see it to believe it and there haven’t been those role models in place.”

As a woman, she has had her own challenging experiences. She recalls her first commercial managers’ meeting after Burton were promoted to the Conference (now the National League) under Nigel Clough in 2002. “I was the only female around the table, and half the age of the rest of the people,” she says. Another place of frustratingly slow change has been the Football Association, but Robinson was appointed to the Council in 2016 and there is an ongoing drive to finally make the organisation more representative of the communities it serves.

“It is becoming a more inclusive environment – I was only speaking to [female] CEOs at Grimsby and Harrogate this week,” says Robinson. “There are more of us in these key roles, which is important for the next generation. It is evolving but not as quickly as we would like. There are challenges. I see it now. You go to a boardroom, and people gravitate to the male party you are with as opposed to you as a female. That’s the generation change that needs to happen. Any organisation needs to have that diverse workforce to bring different cultures together to create ideas. And it’s not just the boardroom. I’m also a big advocate for the administration support within football!”

We’re delighted to confirm Fleur will be joining the panel for our Women in Business Day this Thursday, 15 June to discuss her career in football, and working to bring the industry into a newer more diverse and inclusive era.

The panel will also feature media personality Louise Minchin and businesswoman Victoria Price.

Louise Minchin

Louise is a British television presenter, journalist and former news presenter who currently works freelance within the BBC. After her 20 year career on the BBC Breakfast couch, we can’t wait to hear her experiences as a woman so prominant in the public eye and we’re sure she has a few stories to share! Her new book Fearless, Adventures with Extraordinary Women reflects her passion for celebrating women’s success. In each chapter Louise takes on a difficult challenge with a different courageous woman to tell their incredible stories. As part of it she has swum from Alcatraz, free dived under ice in the dark in Finland, and cycled across Argentina. What a woman!

Victoria Price

Victoria is the Europe, Middle East, India & Africa (EMEIA) Private Tax Leader for Ernst & Young (EY) Global Limited. In this role, she drives the tax strategy across the region to bring the most innovative solutions to the dynamic private clients to help them plan efficiently for the diverse challenges they face. She is also impassioned about helping young people to realise their career ambitions and is a devoted supporter of the EY Foundation program. In aid of the charity, she has trekked across the Sahara, climbed Kilimanjaro and completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks with alumni from the EY Entrepreneur of the Year program. These women in business are amazing!

The Bolesworth International

A host of world-class sport will run alongside the Bolesworth International Women in Business Day in Bolesworth’s bespoke showjumping arenas with many female riders in the thick of the action. Top sportsperson Louise Saywell, mother of an 18-month-old daughter, will feature heavily in the higher-ranking classes and will be intent on repeating last year’s victory in the highly-revered showjumping finale, the Bolesworth Grand Prix.

Additional VIP packages that are available throughout the show include the established business networking lunch on Friday 16th featuring an Audience with Michael Owen and Sir AP McCoy, Ladies Day on Saturday 17th, and evening sessions that combine favourite sporting highlights such as the Puissance with Live Music and exclusive Entertainment. VIP tickets are priced from £99.00 (adult) and £78 (child)*.

The brand new Bolesworth International has a packed programme of events and adrenaline-fuelled displays and activities throughout the weekend for the whole family with camping available onsite for Friday and Saturday nights. Highlights include stunt horses, freestyle motocross displays and a new live music stage on Friday and Saturday nights headlining with Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ band, The Brand New Heavies and DJ Trevor Nelson. The event kicks off with sporting action from 8am on Wednesday 14th June and runs right through to 7.30pm on Sunday 18th of June 2023.

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GIANTS from the world of showjumping and horse racing will appear at this year’s unmissable Bolesworth International.

With just days to go until the much-anticipated five-day spectacular – held at the 400,000 sq metre Bolesworth Castle estate, near Chester and Wrexham – a host of star names have been unveiled.

Legendary jockey Sir AP McCoy will front a sold-out business networking session next Friday alongside former England and Real Madrid striker Michael Owen, while showjumping Olympians Geoff Billington, Nicola Wilson, Gemma Stevens and defending Bolesworth Grand Prix winner Louise Saywell are to compete in high-class equestrian competitions.

Other well-known names from the equine arena include Joe Stockdale, Sienna Charles, Anthony Condon, Guy Williams and Angelie Von Essen, and inspirational 14-time Paralympic gold medallist Sir Lee Pearson CBE is to present the prizes for the Trooping the Colour Charity Park Ride in aid of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) on Thursday.

That same day – and fresh from winning promotion back to the English Football League with the support of Hollywood owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, Wrexham AFC chief executive Fleur Robinson will join TV presenter, journalist and author Louise Minchin and Ernst and Young tax strategist Victoria Price for the Women in Business Day.

Bolesworth’s Managing Director Nina Barbour said the packed lifestyle and equestrian programme has something for everyone, as they aim to achieve 250,000 annual visitors ahead of the Castle’s 200^th anniversary in 2028.

“From Wednesday to Sunday we have so much happening, especially on Friday onwards when we have more than 100 shops and attractions available,” said Nina.

“Whether it’s a relaxing day with the family, action and adventure, live entertainment, the equestrian competitions, or the opportunity to network, we have it all.

“And from the showjumping perspective some of the biggest names on the international circuit will be here, to compete and attend other events, so there is the opportunity to get up close and meet some of your favourite stars.

“Tickets are selling fast so we urge people to get in touch soon – whether it’s for one day or the whole event, we look forward to seeing you next week!”

The event also features live music, with DJs Trevor Nelson and Phoebe d’Abo, renowned soul outfit The Brand New Heavies, and Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ Band set to take the stage on Friday and Saturday night.

Elsewhere, there will be barbecue masterclasses, an extensive shopping village, an epic kids’ zone with funfair, inflatables, land and water zorbs, a wildlife zone, beekeeping, falconry, pony rides, stunt horses, an A-list auction and much more, with camping pitches still available for anyone wanting to stay for longer.

And a new EV and Hybrid Driving Experience Zone presented by Instavolt will see nine global automotive brands on show and for visitors to test drive on and off site.

Dogs are welcome, with family dog shows, training and have-a-go agility sessions, retail outlets and lots of canine activities over the course of the weekend.

“The response we’ve had so far has been absolutely fantastic,” added Nina.

“We have gone bigger and better than ever as we know that – after what has been a challenging time – people want to have fun, enjoy themselves and experience something a little different, something that will bring a smile to their face.

“This year’s Bolesworth International will guarantee that, we just can’t wait to get started.”

Bolesworth International runs from Wednesday June 14 to Sunday June 18. For the latest news and information and to book tickets, visit the website www.bolesworth.com/international or call 01829 782210.

For VIP packages, e mail melanie@bolesworth.com.

There are countless reasons why Bolesworth captures the hearts of its visitors, but one aspect that sets it apart from other venues is its unwavering commitment to being a dog-friendly events venue. With three adorable office dogs who have melted the hearts of even the most steadfast cat lovers (shoutout to Alfie, Flops, and Poppy!) Bolesworth has become synonymous with creating an inclusive environment where humans and their fur babies can enjoy unforgettable experiences.

Friends Fur-ever

As the age-old saying goes, dogs truly are a man’s best friend. For many people, dogs are not just pets; they are cherished members of their families, offering unconditional love, companionship, and loyalty. We know the heart-breaking puppy eyes all too well, so instead of making you leave your pooch at home, we welcome dogs to join their pawrents to many of our events!

A Haven for Dog Lovers

It’s our pawlicy to create an inclusive environment that caters to the needs of all visitors, including those with canine companions. By embracing a dog-friendly approach, our venue ensures that no one is left behind and everyone can fully enjoy our amazing events at Bolesworth.

Unleashing the Fun

When organising events catering to dog owners, Bolesworth goes above and beyond to create a memorable experience for humans and their four-legged friends. From exciting horse shows and balloon fiestas to relaxed picnics and outdoor concerts, our venue offers diverse activities that allow dogs to socialise, play, and explore in a safe and welcoming environment.

Adventurous Escapes

Bolesworth’s dog-friendly approach extends beyond the events it hosts. The stunning estate, encompassing picturesque gardens, sprawling grounds, and scenic walking trails, offers an ideal backdrop for dog owners seeking outdoor adventures. Whether you and your furry companion enjoy long hikes through nature or prefer a leisurely stroll amidst breathtaking landscapes, Bolesworth provides the perfect setting for unforgettable moments of exploration!

Pampered Pooches

We know some of you have spoilt pups (we do, too), so we understand that happy dogs make for happy owners. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for furry guests, we offer a range of amenities at all our events. From water stations and shaded areas to designated dog-friendly sections, Bolesworth takes pride in providing all the necessary facilities to accommodate its four-legged visitors.

Pawrental Supervision

To maintain a harmonious environment for all guests, we kindly request that dog owners adhere to a few guidelines to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone. Responsible dog ownership, including proper leash control, waste disposal, and respecting the boundaries of other visitors, ensures that both human and canine guests can relish their time at the venue without any inconveniences. If you find yourself in a pinch and need a poo bag, please find one of our staff who always carries a spare!

Pressing Paws

If you want to make a weekend of it (or you don’t fancy camping), we have a host of dog-friendly hotels and B&Bs in the area you can stay at.

Just 10 minutes down the road, you’ll find The Pheasant Inn, a quintessentially English country pub nestled in the gloriously unspoilt Peckforton Hills — a country hotel with 12 boutique-style Cheshire hotel rooms and an AA Rosette-awarded restaurant.

Fifteen minutes away, in the nearby village of Malpas, is The Lion – recent renovations have transformed the experience of staying in the Cheshire countryside. Sixteen fabulous new rooms have been created using beautiful fabrics, reclaimed timbers and the finest furnishings.

Twenty minutes from us, The Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa – an award-winning hotel just outside the historic city of Chester – offers beautiful modern bedrooms, opulent spa and leisure facilities, and two refined restaurants.

You’d be barking mad to stay anywhere else!

Bolesworth is a shining example of a dog-friendly events venue in Cheshire and the Northwest. By offering a wide range of dog-friendly activites, providing necessary amenities, and prioritising the safety and well-being of all guests, we have created an inclusive haven for all the family to have fun. So, if you’re a dog owner seeking a unique and welcoming venue, look no further than Bolesworth for a truly memorable experience where your furry friend is more than just welcome—they are an integral part of the adventure!

One of the North West’s premier event venues is powering up for a summer spectacular as the all-new Bolesworth International welcomes some of the world’s leading car brands.

Bolesworth Castle has lined up yet another ‘first of its kind’ for this year’s summer spectacular, which takes place from June 14-18.

The Castle, based in Tattenhall near Chester and Wrexham, is world-renowned for hosting equestrian competitions but it’s a different type of horsepower that will appeal to motoring enthusiasts and those interested in driving with sustainability in mind.

An impressive range of hi-tech electric and hybrid vehicles will feature in this year’s Driving Experience Zone, where visitors can take to the wheel of a car or e-bike manufactured by global automotive giants.

In partnership with Williams Group, Lookers Chester, Mitchell Group, Eskuta and Root EV, Matt Bates, Bolesworth’s Managing Director of Events, said test drives and rides will be on a first-come, first-served basis – all you need is your driving licence.

“We’re so excited to be giving thousands of people the chance to get up close to and experience an EV, hybrid, or e-bike at the Bolesworth International next month,” he said.

“Together with our amazing partners, visitors can experience a huge selection of cutting-edge vehicles from a host of major brands including BMW and Land Rover from Williams Group, Kia, Nissan and Renault from Lookers Chester, Lexus, Mazda and Skoda from Mitchell Group, as well as e-bikes from Eskuta and Root EV.

“There’s no doubt EV and hybrid cars are the future of mobility and as a sustainability conscious organisation we’re keen to do all we can to support their adoption for the good of our region and beyond.”

Matt added: “Incidentally if you’re looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day on June 18, why not give the dad in your life a celebration to remember by letting him loose on a host of amazing cars and bikes? Add in FMX and BMX displays, radio-controlled cars, barbecue demos and much more – I know where I’ll be heading!”

The five-day Bolesworth International festival has something for all the family, as organisers aim to achieve 250,000 annual visitors ahead of the Castle’s 200th anniversary in 2028.

Following significant investment, they have packed the 400,000 square metre-site with everything from world class equestrian sport, entertainment, and action sports to create the biggest and best attraction of its kind, in Cheshire, North Wales and beyond.

DJs Trevor Nelson and Phoebe d’Abo, renowned soul outfit The Brand New Heavies, and Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ Band are among the stars set to appear. There will be celebrity guests, barbecue and cocktail masterclasses, an extensive shopping village, a huge kids’ zone with funfair, inflatables, land and water zorbs, a wildlife zone, pony rides and much more, including camping.

The Driving Experience Zone will be open from Friday June 16 to Sunday June 18. For tickets and further information, visit www.bolesworth.com/international.

For the latest news and information and to book tickets for Bolesworth International, visit the website www.bolesworth.com or call 01829 782210. Alternatively, email info@bolesworth.com and follow them on social media at @bolesworth.

BOLESWORTH Castle has lined up a series of major events to give the region a post-pandemic boost and achieve its target of 250,000 visitors ahead of a landmark anniversary.

Taking place from June 14-18, the always popular Bolesworth International has a brand-new look for 2023.

Following significant investment, organisers have packed the 400,000 square metre-site with everything from world class equestrian competitions, entertainment, action sports, shopping and more to create the biggest and best attraction of its kind, in Cheshire and beyond.

DJs Trevor Nelson and Phoebe d’Abo, pop outfit the Brand New Heavies, and Rick Parfitt Jr and the RPJ Band are among the stars set to appear, and there will a wide range of activities and attractions for people of all ages to enjoy.

Bolesworth’s Managing Director Nina Barbour and its 40-strong team have big plans having ridden the challenges of the pandemic and emerged with a clear vision for the future.

“While the Bolesworth International is by tradition a horse show and its place in the International equestrian calendar is so important to us, we felt this was the year to rip up the rule book and recreate the event to really take it to the next level,” said Nina.

“Cheshire and North Wales is seeing significant attention and interest, investment and development in recent times, and we want to play our part by creating a major event that becomes a must-visit for people in the area, whether they love horses or just want a great day out with family and friends.

“From Friday to Sunday there will be so many things going on from live music and celebrity guests to barbecue and cocktail masterclasses, an extensive shopping village, a huge kids’ zone with funfair, inflatables, land and water zorbs, a wildlife zone, pony rides and so much more.

“There will also be plenty for the dads to enjoy as our final programme takes place on Father’s Day, with freestyle motocross, radio-controlled cars and boats, electric bike and driving experiences, and the opportunity to camp on-site.”

She added: “We had to scale Bolesworth International down in recent times because of Covid-19 but it’s back and bigger than ever, with the opportunity to camp on-site and bring the whole family – and that’s dogs included.   

“Tickets are available – camping pitches are selling fast, and the business networking hospitality session with Michael Owen and Sir AP McCoy on the Friday has already sold out – so we encourage visitors to book now so they don’t miss out.”

With more than 1,000 people from Cheshire, North Wales and beyond employed by dozens of businesses across the 6,000-acre Bolesworth Estate, the venue has had a major impact on the economy for generations.

And as they begin preparations for the 200^th anniversary of Bolesworth Castle in 2028, Nina is aiming to reach a quarter of a million visitors and contribute even more to their community.

“Bolesworth is so much more than a venue for events, we do a lot of work with local and national charities, are home to a variety of businesses across a wide range of sectors and have been used as a location for film and TV on many occasions,” she said.

“It’s a huge operation which continues to grow, and we are very proud of that.”

Nina added: “As we move towards the Castle’s bicentenary, we will look to build on what is already a high-quality series of events that will appeal to people from all over the country and beyond.”

Among the highlights this year are a Spring Garden Walk, Cheshire Balloon Fiesta, and the popular Christmas at Bolesworth extravaganza, which this winter will feature an ice-skating rink, Santa’s Grotto, and spectacular lights trail.