London International Horse Show returns to the ExCeL (18 to 22 December 2024) for five packed days of action and excitement. The home of the UK legs of the FEI World Cups in dressage, driving and jumping, London International is the place to be at Christmas. Read on for a guide to the action.
The unmissable Christmas show
Top level sport, amazing displays and marvellous masterclasses take place throughout the week at London International, with highlights including. . .
Three World Cups
Home to the UK’s FEI World Cups in jumping, dressage and driving, the show is at the top level of equestrian events in Great Britain. Catch the FEI Dressage World Cup, presented by Bret Willson Dressage International Ltd and supported by Horse & Hound, on Wednesday and Thursday, followed by the FEI Driving World Cup on Friday and Saturday, and the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup leg on Sunday!
Beloved classes
If you think of London International there are a few things that immediately spring to mind – the LeMieux Puissance and the Cavago Six Bar are just the start! The famous festive showjumping classes such as the Santa Stakes and the Christmas Tree Speed Stakes will get you in a jolly mood, and racing fans won’t want to miss the Markel Jockeys Jumping in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund on Friday evening. For younger visitors, an absolute must-see is the GS Equestrian Pony Club Mini-Major – back once again to complete a thrilling Wednesday afternoon performance.
Delightful displays
Back at the London Show for the first time since 2011, Lorenzo the “Flying Frenchman” is set to dazzle the audience by standing atop his galloping horses, clearing obstacles, and orchestrating breathtaking sequences, embodying his reputation as he “flies” around the international arena. Joining the London line-up are – of course – the Defender Shetland Pony Grand National on their end-of-season outing, while more Kennel Club Dog Agility than ever before will be represented in both the London and international arenas. Special for 2024, the GB medal winners from this summer’s Paris Olympics will be taking part in a parade around the international arena on Wednesday 18 December during the evening performance.
Showing magic continues
Last year saw the show introduce a new second arena, The New Horizon Plastics London Arena, which successfully hosted the finals of the London International Showing Series. The programme this year will be even bigger and better, seeing 28 showing classes crowning this year’s winners. All competitors have arrived at London by competing in qualifying classes in some of the UK’s best county shows over the summer..
And elsewhere. . .
And of course, it wouldn’t be London International without the rest! The huge shopping village packed full of country lifestyle and living stalls, a non-stop Live Zone with all-day entertainment from your favourites, plus amazing food stalls and restaurants, bars aplenty, and the most luxurious hospitality on offer!
Top tips for fabulous festive fun
Check out our three insider tips for London International to elevate your festive visit.
The Live Zone
The Live Zone line-up this year is the best yet! You can expect talks, Q&A sessions, meet and greets, and so much more from our dedicated zone in the shopping village. Confirmed appearances include meets with Meg Elphick, Harlow Luna White and This Esme, as well as an interview with Netflix Original Free Rein actors Joe and Bruce. It will also feature a live episode of the Poles, Piaffe & Prosecco podcast, a talk from Power of Polo, daily talks from the show’s official charity, the RDA, and daily children’s activities run by LeMieux and the Pony Club UK.
Marvellous LeMieux masterclasses
The New Horizon Plastics London Arena will, for the second year running, play host to the marvellous LeMieux masterclasses. These span a range of disciplines – dressage, training, grassroots to glory, driving and jumping – and will feature equestrian experts and celebrity favourites. These masterclasses will offer a comprehensive exploration of the path to competitive success, tailored to inspire and educate riders of all levels and promise to be highlights of the show.
Exhibitor sustainability award
For 2024, London International Horse Show, partnered with White Griffin Environmental Equine Consultants, are running a sustainability competition with the aim of recognising exhibitors demonstrating outstanding commitment to sustainable practices within the equine industry. The award reflects the show’s commitment to minimising the environmental impact of hosting the event and reinforcing the message that the industry can thrive while reducing its carbon footprint and conserving resources.
And finally. . . a special tickets discount
As a special treat, all Horse & Hound readers can enjoy 25% off tickets to certain international (main) arena performances at London International Horse Show. This offer is valid for performances on Wednesday 18 December morning (grand prix dressage), Wednesday 18 December afternoon, Thursday 19 December afternoon, Thursday 19 December evening, Friday 20 December afternoon, Friday 20 December evening and Saturday 21 December evening (excludes top-priced tickets).
Use code: H&HLIHS24 when you order your tickets here
