Published: 13 June 2023
What is it?
The 2026 show also carries a special significance: Friday 15th May marks 100 years since the birth of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and the evening will be commemorated with a special one-off recital in the Members' Enclosure, featuring music by acclaimed composer Debbie Wiseman OBE, alongside poetry, stories and royal reflections.
Why should I go?
The 2026 show will feature top-class equestrian competition in Jumping, Dressage, Driving and Endurance, along with 120-plus Showing classes.
At the heart of it all is the showjumping. The CSI5* jumping runs across three days — Friday to Sunday — in the Castle Arena, culminating in the prestigious Rolex Grand Prix on the Sunday. The 2026 line-up is particularly star-studded: six of the world's top-10 ranked riders are set to take part, including World No.1 Scott Brash, alongside Olympic medallists Harry Charles, Martin Fuchs, Steve Guerdat and Gregory Wathelet, as well as international challengers Kent Farrington, Christian Kukuk, Henrik von Eckermann and Nina Mallevaey.
But there's far more than showjumping on offer. The schedule includes international driving, endurance, Pony Club mounted games, the Shetland Pony Grand National and the musical drive of the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery. A Dressage Masterclass will also take place on Thursday in the Castle Arena. And for those who love to browse, the famous Shopping Village is divided into four zones: Horse & Rider, Country Lifestyle and Living, a Jewellery & Fashion Quarter, and a Royal Warrant Holders Association area.
Where can I get a Ticket?
There are four types of tickets available: General Entry (access to the whole show, but no reserved Castle Arena seat); Castle Arena West Grandstand (access plus a reserved seat); Castle Arena Castle Stand (access, a reserved seat, and a dedicated Bar & Café); and Membership of the Royal Windsor Horse Show Club.
General entry starts from £28, with family tickets from £25 and group bookings of 10 or more from £23. Concession prices are available for those aged over 65, under 18, students, or those with access requirements, and children under eight enter free of charge.
For the most exclusive experience, Club Membership remains the pinnacle. A limited number of memberships are available each year, covering access to the show each day for the member and one guest, plus a programme and parking, as well as additional benefits such as tickets to other events. Day memberships are also available for Thursday and Friday. The Club has its own purpose-built structure including a restaurant, bar area and an outside lawn, all with fantastic views onto the Castle Arena.
How do I get to the Royal Windsor Horse Show from London?
Getting to the show from London is straightforward, and travelling by train is by far the easiest option. There are two stations to choose from, both within easy walking distance of the showground.
Windsor & Eton Riverside Station is approximately a 5-minute walk from the entrance to the show and is served by South Western Railway, allowing travel from London Waterloo in the east and many towns in the south and west via Staines. Windsor & Eton Central Station is approximately a 10 to 15-minute walk from the entrance and is served by Great Western Railway, with connections via Slough from London Paddington in the east and from destinations across the south west and Wales. We'd recommend checking National Rail for times before you travel, particularly on the busier Saturday and Sunday.
If you're driving, the nearest motorways are the M4, M25 and M3, and AA signage will direct you to available car parks outside the showground. The official advice is to use the A303/M3 (J3) rather than the M4 (J6) where possible, to avoid Windsor town centre. Parking costs £14 and can be booked in advance when purchasing your tickets — spaces are limited, so booking ahead is recommended. Blue Badge holders should book the dedicated accessible parking in the King Edward VII Car Park in advance.
What should I wear to the Royal Windsor Horse Show?
This isn't Ascot, so you can breathe a sigh of relief. There is no dress code for General Entry or Reserved Seating ticket holders during the daytime of the show. That said, a little thought about what you put on your feet will go a long way. The showground is a greenfield site, and mid-May weather in England can be scorching hot or incredibly wet, so sensible footwear is an absolute must if the forecast isn't favourable. Think country-smart rather than city-chic: a light layered outfit with flat boots or sturdy shoes will serve you far better than heels on the grass.
For those attending as Club Members, the rules are considerably stricter. Gentlemen are required to wear a tailored jacket and tie, while ladies are encouraged to wear skirts, summer dresses or well-cut trousers. Blue jeans or denim, leggings and sports trainers are not permitted, and the dress code is strictly enforced; members are also responsible for ensuring their guests comply.
For everyone else, smart-casual with a nod to the countryside is the sweet spot. A floral dress, tailored chinos, a gilet or a classic blazer all feel perfectly at home at Windsor. Just don't forget a lightweight waterproof, and leave the stilettos at home.
The Royal Windsor Horse Show kicks off the Season with a hop, skip, and a trot into summer, bringing together riders, horse lovers, and sports fans from around the world. Whether you're drawn by world No.1 showjumpers, the poignant centenary celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II, or simply the magical backdrop of Windsor Castle, 2026 promises to be a truly memorable edition. Mark your calendars and get your tickets before they sell out.
