Typically held in May, the Royal Windsor Horse Show is the UK’s largest outdoor equestrian event. Steeped in tradition, it has graced Windsor Home Park on the grounds of Windsor Castle every year since 1943. From thrilling showjumping to elegant dressage, the showgrounds come alive with equine prowess.
Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the Royal Windsor Horse Show promises an unforgettable experience in the shadow of Windsor Castle. You may even spot royalty – the late Queen Elizabeth II served as its patron until her passing in 2022, and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh now stands as President.
Considering visiting Royal Windsor Horse Show? We’ve got all you need to know.
Where is Royal Windsor Horse Show?
Royal Windsor Horse Show takes place in Windsor Home Park, Windsor Castle.
Royal Windsor Horse Show’s address is King Edward VII Car Park, Home Park, Romney Lock Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1QE.
How to get to Royal Windsor Horse Show
South Western Railway services take you to Windsor & Eton Riverside, the closest station to Windsor Castle.
Entry to the Royal Windsor Horse Show is ticketed, and prices vary. The Show runs from 10:00 to 20:30 daily.
General Entry tickets provide access to various arenas, show hubs and shopping areas. Reserved seats for the Castle Arena grandstand are available as add-ons to General Entry tickets.
General Entry Tickets (Thursday to Sunday):
Thursday
Friday
Saturday & Sunday
Adults
£31
£40
£47
Concession
£35
£40
£40
Child
£27
£32
£32
Reserved Seating in the West Grandstand:
Thursday & Friday
Saturday & Saturday
Adults
£13.50
£16
Concession
£10
£13
The Hubs
The Show recently introduced The Hubs, five areas to enhance visitor experience. Each has live presentations, demonstrations and performances covering specific themes:
Performance Hub – a music, dance and entertainment hub at the show’s heart.
Garden Hub – a relaxed space for garden lovers, including appearances from guests like Alan Titchmarsh and the experts from the Royal Household.
Art Hub – an artists’ haven, including guests like Artist in Residence, Sherree Valentine Daines.
Food Hub – a foodie heaven celebrating local produce.
Green Hub – a biodiversity display showcasing how to improve your footprint.
DAKS Pony Club Mounted Games
The DAKS Home International Mounted Games Championships is an invitational competition held annually at the RWHS. Pony Club members from England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland compete for the title. It’s a thrilling showcase of equestrian skill, set against the backdrop of this world-famous event in the Castle Arena. The Games begin on Thursday, and the final takes place on Sunday.
The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery
The show has had military connections since it was created in 1943 to raise funds for the war. The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and the Household Cavalry perform ceremonial equestrian displays at the RWHS each year. The Troop performs the Musical Drive while the Cavalry performs the Musical Ride.
It’s a true spectacle. Picture synchronised horseriding (and historic 13-pounder field guns)!
What to wear at the Royal Windsor Horse Show
There is a strictly enforced smart dress code at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.
The Royal Windsor Horse Show dress code is:
Ladies are encouraged to wear skirts, dresses or tailored trousers. Smart trainers like Converse are allowed.
Men are required to wear a tailored jacket and tie. Blue jeans or denim are not permitted.
Food and drinks
Photo credit: Royal Windsor Horse Show.
The showground boasts diverse food and drink outlets catering to every taste. There’s something from everyone, from vegans to carnivores.
Picnics are also allowed, but avoid bringing glass or sharp objects. Food is not permitted in the arenas, but drinks in plastic containers are allowed.
The Royal Windsor Horse Show Club, founded in 1944, is at the heart of the event. It offers an exclusive Club Enclosure where members can enjoy everything from pastries to three-course meals.
Royal Windsor Horse Show accessibility
The Royal Windsor grounds have uneven surfaces, and you should expect to travel between five different arenas. Blue Badge holders can contact the Box Office (0800 640 5001) for parking and entry tickets.
The Castle Arena has seating for Disabled General Entry Ticket holders and a wheelchair platform. The Castle Stand also has a wheelchair platform and accessible seating. The Royal Windsor Horse Show Club and lawn are wheelchair accessible. The Copper Horse, Frogmore and Adelaide arenas have ringside viewing for wheelchair users and limited unreserved seating. Carers go free.
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