The history of Hickstead horse show

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Back in 1960, British riders did not have a suitable arena to host a national horse show, specifically a great show jumping event. Therefore, Douglas Bunn decided to purchase Hickstead Place and the surrounding land with the sole intention of creating a horse show venue that was better than any other in Europe or the US.

Hickstead's reputation as a prominent equestrian eventing arena went from strength to strength and it began hosting the British Nations Cup and Grand Prix meeting, the Official Show Jumping Event of Great Britain, in 1971. Then in August 1999 Hickstead hosted the Traxdata European Championships.

Dressage at Hickstead

Since 1993, Hickstead has also hosted dressage and has fast become Britain's premier site for both international and national dressage competition.

Dressage at Hickstead has provided great opportunities for British riders and helped to promote Britain's status in the sport of dressage throughout Europe.

1998 saw Hickstead selected by the International Equestrian Federation to host the Junior and Young Rider European Dressage Championships, where the British Junior Team trotted home with bronze.

Hickstead today

Currently, the showground boasts six arenas, permanent seating for over 5,000 spectators, 26 corporate hospitality suites and many more facilities for horse shows and equestrian activities.

Hickstead celebrated its 45th anniversary as Great Britain's home of international show jumping in 2005 and has seen almost every great show jumper, horse and horse rider compete since The All England Jumping Course was created in 1960.

Equestrian apparel and riding equipment at Dogwood

From beautiful saddlery and a great collection of horse tack to long riding boots, jodhpurs, and fine country clothing, we have everything you need to prepare you for any horse riding event.

Whether you are taking horse riding lessons, enjoy leisure riding or compete in horse shows it is important for both you and you horse to look your best and ride in comfort.

For information about up and coming horse shows and details on equestrian events in your area see The Dogwood Horse Show and Events Guide 2006.

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