Horse of the Year Show 2026 Timetable Update

Horse of the Year Show remains the pinnacle event of the equestrian calendar, bringing together world-class competition, unforgettable performances, and an electric atmosphere for competitors and spectators alike. 

As tickets go on sale on 24th April, we’re excited to share this year’s timetable – giving you the chance to plan your perfect visit and make the most of every moment at the show. 

Our equestrian team has worked tirelessly to create a dynamic and balanced schedule, ensuring competitors have their opportunity to shine under the lights in our iconic arenas. This year also welcomes the addition of new Veteran Horse Society Ridden Veteran Horse of the Year Championship, celebrating the experience and excellence of older horses. 

Sunday will wrap up a little earlier this year at 9.30pm, helping visitors make onward travel arrangements while still leaving time to enjoy the atmosphere.

With several exciting changes across the week – here’s what’s new for 2026: 

Wednesday  

The TopSpec Arena, will see the introduction of the Veteran Horse Society Ridden Veteran Horse of the Year Championship. 

Also moving into Wednesday’s schedule: 

• The NeedleSmart, John Illingworth and Cliff Kirby Ridden Purebred Arab of the Year Championship 
• SEIB Search for a Star Riding Horse/Hack 

In addition, don’t miss the brand-new Agility Nexus Hunter & Gather Dog Agility Grand Prix, running across Wednesday and Thursday. 

Thursday  

In the TopSpec Arena, SEIB Search for a Star Working Show Horse/Pony and Championship has moved into Thursday’s timetable.  

Thursday daytime in the Andrews Bowen International Arena now features the Barber Family Ridden Heavy Horse of the Year Championship.

Friday  

Friday brings a number of timetable updates, including: 

• The UKAMHS American Miniature Horse of the Year  
• The Leeman Family Maxi Cob of the Year Championship, which will now feature in the TopSpec Arena  
• All Coloured classes, sponsored by CHAPS (UK), will now take place on Friday.

Saturday  

Saturday’s updates include: 

• The Price Family Supreme In-Hand, now taking place in the new format on Saturday with the preliminary judging in the TopSpec Arena, followed by the Championship in the Andrews Bowen International Arena later that day 
• International Showjumping – The Accumulator, is now part of the evening performance, with The Rees Family Cup moving to the daytime performance 
• The Driven Heavy Horse of the Year Championship  
• Colne Mountain & Moorland Lead Rein Welsh Pony of the Year, Mountain & Moorland First Ridden Pony of the Year and Westown Stud Mountain & Moorland Lead Rein Non-Welsh Pony of the Year  
• Colne Mountain & Moorland Mini Pony of the Year Championship  

Sunday  

Several classes move into Sunday’s programme, including: 

• The Mears-Wood Family Lead Rein Pony of Hunter Type of the Year Championship 
• The Thor Atkinson Steel Fabrications Ltd. Junior Mountain & Moorland Ridden Large Breeds, Small Breeds and Championship 
• Miniature Horse of the Year Championship supported by the British Miniature Horse Society 
• The Shine Source Footwear UK LTD Show Hunter Pony of the Year classes (TopSpec) also move to Sunday, with the eligible combinations having the chance to shine in the Andrews Bowen International Arena for the Championship 

Key Highlights throughout the week 

There’s something for everyone to enjoy across the entire show: 

• Thursday shines a spotlight on the Dressage Future Elite Championship as well the Repost Equestrian Senior Foxhunter Championship 
• Saturday evening showcases the crowd favourite – Ripon Select Foods Puissance 
• The LeMieux Pony Club Mounted Games Prince Philip Cup, building to a thrilling Sunday Evening final 
• The Osborne Refrigerators Double Harness Scurry, running Wednesday to Saturday 
• The International Showjumping – Six Bar on the Sunday 

Plan Your Visit 

With an action-packed timetable spanning showing, showjumping, dressage, and family entertainment, this year’s Horse of the Year Show promises something for every equestrian fan. 

Make sure you secure your tickets from 24th April, keep an eye on further announcements and start planning your visit today. 

View the full timetable here.

ENDS

For more information on Horse of the Year Show 2026, please contact: 
Horse of the Year Show Press Office, Grandstand Media Ltd. 
Tel: 02476 858205 
Email: press@hoys.co.uk