Burghley Horse Trials, Stamford, England
August 27 – September 5, 2021
The Burghley Horse Trials are the most consistent and challenging of the 5* events, as well as being visitor friendly. The setting, on the grounds of Burghley House, is magnificent and it is a (longish) walk to the village of Stamford, allowing for a very pleasant side visit, for those who wish.
You will find our accommodations, both at the Hotel Chesterfield in London (for 4 nights) and in Peterborough (5 nights) very pleasant indeed, and both very well located. The Bull Hotel in Peterborough, is an old coaching inn in the middle of the town, is one we have enjoyed for many years.
As always, we have included sightseeing in London and Cambridge and Member’s admission to the Burghley Horse Trials.
Friday, August 27: Usual U.S. Departure Day for London
Those traveling from the U.S. will depart today. We recommend flights into and out of Heathrow
Saturday, August 28: Welcome to London
After the usual customs formalities, transfer into central London. You will find several options, the best being the Heathrow Express train, non-stop to Paddington Station in 15-20 minutes.
On arrival at the Chesterfield Hotel, check in and relax. Rooms are generally available from 2pm. There are several pubs in the neighborhood for lunch and Green Park and Piccadilly area shops and restaurants are nearby. This 7:00 pm gather for drinks and dinner.
Sunday, August 29: London sightseeing at your leisure
Breakfast buffet is included each day of our program. Tickets will be provided for you to enjoy hop on/hop off sightseeing of London and its principal sights at your leisure. Stops include Parliament, St. Paul’s, Cathedral, the Tower of London and many others. (Buckingham Palace would be a good point to end your day, again quite nearby our hotel). We have had excellent comments on this service. I think you will enjoy it.
Monday, August 30: Free time in London
The day is free to continue with your Hop on/Hop off sightseeing. If you haven’t seen it, don’t miss the Changing of the Horse Guard at Whitehall, during your stay. From there, you are a short walk from Piccadilly and the Tube lines to take you throughout London.
Tuesday, August 31: Free day today
Free day to explore as you wish today. You might choose to visit Kew Gardens and Queen Charlotte’s Cottage; take the tube to Greenwich to visit the Royal Naval College and the Old Royal Observatory (Prime Meridian); or join me. I plan on taking the train to Windsor to visit the town and Windsor Castle, walk down to observe the “Long Walk” and lunch in a comfortable pub.
Wednesday, September 1: Depart for Cambridge and Peterborough
Depart for the university town of Cambridge for a delightful walking tour. Meet our guide on arrival, and after a short break, tour the town and college area. Some will be “punting on the Cam”, a favorite past time here in Cambridge. Time following our tour for lunch and shopping as you choose. This afternoon we continue to Peterborough and the Bull Hotel. Dinner is included each evening of our stay.
Thursday, September 2: Dressage
Depart for Burghley for the first day of dressage. Members have exclusive access to the North Stands for dressage on Thursday & Friday. Throughout the event enjoy the privileges of the Members tent, including closed circuit television where you will also be able to watch the event with commentary. In addition, the Members area has its own bars, restaurants and their own loos.
Friday, September 3: Dressage Continues
Dressage continues today, with closed circuit TV in the Members’ Tent. There are a wonderful variety of shops in the marketplace as well as other alternatives for food (nothing like a bacon bap and tea), but the Member’s Tent will offer the best place to sit and relax over lunch. Pim’s anyone?
Saturday, September 4: Cross Country
A 9:00 departure will allow you to be at your favorite fence as the first horse begins cross-country. During rides of particular interest, you may want to be in the Members’ Tent or in the stands, where there will be XC jumps and a large screen to watch the entire ride. You will also find closed circuit TV and refreshments, at several points on course. This has always been a consistently challenging course.
Sunday, September 5: Final Horse Inspection and Show Jumping
Early departure for Burghley this morning, for the final horse inspection. If necessary we will have a second transfer for those choosing a more leisurely morning. After the final presentation of prizes return to Peterborough for a drinks reception prior to dinner, celebrating a safe ride for all the horses & riders and perhaps some American success.
Monday, September 6: – Heathrow and Home
Early departure this morning will allow us to reach Heathrow for 9:30 or later flights.