Burghley Horse Trials
August 27 – September 5, 2016
Our itinerary
Saturday, 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.
Sunday, August 28: Welcome to London
After the usual customs formalities, transfer into central London. You will find several options. There is a Heathrow Express train, non-stop to Paddington Station in 15-20 minutes. From Paddington, take a taxi to the St. Ermin’s. With two or more people, I would suggest Heathrow Airport Taxi if you pre-reserve on line.
On arrival at the St Ermin’s Hotel, check in and relax. Rooms are usually available from 2pm. There are several pubs in the neighborhood for lunch and Green Park and Piccadilly area shops and restaurants are nearby. This evening we gather for drinks in the Caxton bar prior to dinner. (This is “Summer Bank Holiday” weekend so most shops and some pubs will not be open).
Monday, August 29: London sightseeing at your leisure
Breakfast buffet is included each day of our program. Day tickets will be provided for you to enjoy sightseeing of London and its principle sights at your leisure.
Depart for the Open Top Bus Tour shuttle which will take you around London, allowing you to get on and off at the various stops as you wish. Stops include Parliament (a convenient starting point near our hotel) 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.
Tuesday, August 30: Free time in London
The day is free to enjoy. If you haven’t seen it, don’t miss the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and the Queen’s Life Guard (the Horse Guard) at Whitehall, both within easy walking distance. From there, you are a short walk from Piccadilly and the Tube lines to take you throughout London. Enjoy your day. Those wishing to enjoy an evening of London theatre should purchase tickets in advance. There are a number of on-line ticketing agencies. London is a great place to see a musical or play and enjoy a late supper after.
Wednesday, August 31: Depart for Cambridge and Peterborough
This morning 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. Boaters will be “punting on the Cam”, many now professional offering rides to visitors. Time for lunch and to visit and shop as you choose, following our tour. Later this afternoon, continue to Peterborough and the Bull Hotel, in the town center. We have found this hotel to be very pleasant and hospitable on past visits. Dinner is included each evening of our stay here.
Thursday, September 1: Dressage
Depart for Burghley for the first day of dressage.
Members have exclusive access to the North Stands 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. The expansive marketplace will offer everything from Saville Row shops to local tack shops.
Friday, September 2: Dressage Continues
In the Members’ Tent at Burghley you can listen to the commentary during the dressage tests on the closed circuit television. You will particularly enjoy the dining options and the bar here in the Members Tent.
Saturday, September 3: Cross Country
A 9:30 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) to watch the entire ride on closed-circuit television. You will also find closed circuit TV and refreshments, at several points on course.
Sunday, September 4: Final Horse Inspection and Show Jumping
For your convenience, there will be two departures for Burghley this morning, one at 8:00am to get to the final horse inspection and another at 9:30 for those choosing a more leisurely morning. Show Jumping begins at 10:30 this morning, with a break for lunch and mid-day entertainment. After the final presentation of prizes return to Peterborough for a cocktail reception prior to dinner, celebrating a safe ride for all of the horses & riders and perhaps some American success.
Monday, September 5: – Heathrow and Home
An early departure this morning will allow us to reach Heathrow by 7:30am. The hotel will have a light breakfast laid out for us.
Costs per person: $2,795 twin or double basis; $3,495 single basis
Program includes: 8 nights hotel accommodations with breakfast daily, 2 receptions and 6 dinners; sightseeing tour pass in London; admission & Member’s privileges to the Burghley Horse Trials; other sightseeing as outlined; motor coach transportation and transfers as outlined; services of an Equestrian Tours host.
