Get the lowdown on this fixture from Eventing magazine's horse trials guide — including what riders say about the event, plus vital statistics
Date: Thursday 28 — Sunday 31 May 2015
Organiser: Musketeer Event Management
Contact: 01485 210070; info@musketeer.co.uk; www.houghtoninternational.co.uk
Location: Norfolk
Entries open: 23 April
Ballot date: 7 May at 12 noon
Entries close: 18 May
Link to Houhgton entries: www.britisheventing.com/houghton
How to get there
Houghton Hall is situated 10 miles east of Kings Lynn, just off the A148.
What the organisers say
Houghton is a spectacular event set in the shadow of the incredible Houghton Hall.
The dressage takes place on flat grass arenas; the showjumping is situated in front of the hall and the cross-country runs through the beautiful deer park.
The ancient turf — which is sandy, free-draining loam — and the use of machinery such as an agri-vator, creates the best possible ground conditions.
The cross-country courses, designed by Alec Lochore, are free-flowing, making the best use of the variety of natural features and topography. They aim to test, encourage and prepare all types of horses for the next level.
Houghton has a lot on offer, with a vast array of additional classes, including Burghley young event horse sections and affiliated British Showjumping. There will also be an owners’ marquee by the main arena with complimentary light refreshments, plus evening entertainment including a drinks reception, hog roast and disco.
What the riders say
Dressage & showjumping — “Dressage warm-up is limited, but the arenas are superb when you get there in a quiet location.” “Showjumping is up to height and well built.” “The three-star showjumping took place in torrential rain this year — they coped well!” “Large showjumping arena in tradestands, with ample warm-up.”
Cross-country — “Brilliant courses.” “Bold and galloping and the ground held up remarkably well although it was particularly wet for the two-star.” “Well presented courses with good technical questions which can suit a first-timer at the levels.” “Ground can cope with wet but can also dry extremely quickly from good to firm, but machinery is used as necessary.”
Percentage of cross-country clears 2014
CIC3*: 70%
CCIYR2*: 80%
CCI2*: 69%
CCI*: 65%
Download part one of the horse trials guide for just £1.49: Eventing horse trials guide part one
Buy Eventing magazine’s April issue for our full horse trials guide detailing every event from July to October 2015 or purchase a digital copy of the guide here.