A first-timer’s guide to visiting FEI Burnham Market

Heading to the FEI Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International Horse Trials for the first time? You’re in for a treat. Before you dive in, here’s a quick, friendly guide to help you get your bearings, pick up a few useful tips, and make the most of your visit from the moment you arrive.

What to Expect

The Horse Trials give you the opportunity to get remarkably close to the action. You’ll see elite riders and horses competing in an intimate setting, with the chance to watch them warm up, prepare, and perform just metres away.

World‑class sport

The event attracts many of the sport’s biggest names, giving you a front‑row view of top‑level eventing. Riders will be tackling courses crafted by Alec Lochore – the cross country course designer for the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in LA – making for a truly challenging test of skill and partnership.

A stunning coastal setting

Just minutes from the North Norfolk coast, FEI Burnham Market blends world‑class sport with a relaxed, holiday feel. It’s the perfect place to round off your day with local fish and chips or a peaceful walk along the beach.

Fabulous views

Alongside superb viewing of the dressage and cross‑country, the show jumping phase takes place in a natural amphitheatre, giving spectators unbeatable vantage points. Settle back on the grassy bank with a drink from the bar and soak up the action.

Shopping and browsing

From leading equestrian brands to country clothing, homeware, gifts and dog treats, the tradestand village is a highlight for many visitors. Whether you’re browsing or searching for something specific, you’ll find plenty to explore.

Which day should I come?

Each day at the Horse Trials has its own character, so the best choice depends on the experience you’re looking for. And if choosing feels impossible, a season ticket is the perfect way to soak up the whole weekend without missing a moment.

Friday – precision and poise

Friday gets things underway with the calm and elegance of dressage for the international competitors. While these riders deliver precision in the boards, the BE100 and Novice competitors will be out on the showjumping and cross‑country courses – adding a good dose of fast‑paced action. It’s a great day if you enjoy variety without the bigger weekend crowds.

Saturday – a bit of everything (and big names too)

Saturday has a bit of everything. Dressage continues for the international classes, bringing plenty of style and finesse, while the Intermediate and Advanced classes deliver fantastic entertainment across both the show jumping and cross country courses. These classes are the national equivalents to 3* and 4* and often attract some of the sport’s biggest names looking for valuable prep runs ahead of major targets like Badminton. If you want a day that combines top‑class dressage with thrilling jumping action, Saturday is a brilliant choice.

Sunday – big questions, big thrills

Sunday delivers peak excitement. Riders in the international classes tackle the show jumping before heading out onto Alec Lochore’s cross country tracks. If you’re looking for speed, and the thrill of watching top combinations take on serious questions, Sunday offers the most electric experience of the weekend.

Which ticket should you buy?

There’s something for every type of visitor:

• Day tickets – ideal for a relaxed visit or if you’re choosing a specific day’s action.
• Season tickets – perfect if you want to dip in and out across all three days.
• Hospitality – a treat-yourself option with great views, delicious food, and a comfortable base for the day.
• Picnic parking – bring your food, friends, and a blanket! This option enables you to park your car near key jumps or in the heart of the course, set up your chairs, and enjoy a picnic while watching the excitement unfold. General admission to the event is still required.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes – well‑behaved dogs are very welcome. Burnham Market is a dog‑friendly event, with lots to offer including, dog-focused shopping and a water station. Just remember to keep dogs on leads and clean up after them.

What food and drink will I find?

Visitors can enjoy a fantastic selection of food and drink at the Horse Trials, with everything from freshly brewed tea and coffee to delicious dishes cooked to order. Whether you’re after a quick bite between classes or something a little more indulgent, you’ll find plenty of high‑quality food options to keep you fuelled throughout the day. And for those looking to unwind, a cash bar close to the show jumping arena offers the perfect spot to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Top tips for where to watch

FEI Burnham Market is renowned for its fantastic viewing opportunities, and these insider tips will help you make the very most of your day:

Dressage – head up the hill behind the stables to immerse yourself in the grace and precision of the dressage phase. From here you can choose exactly which arena you want to watch, with the international tests taking place in the arenas closest to the warm‑up area. The warm‑up itself is a brilliant spot if you’d like a behind‑the‑scenes insight into how top riders and horses prepare before heading down the centre line.

Show jumping – the natural amphitheatre‑style arena offers comfortable, elevated viewing and superb sightlines from almost any position. With the shops and bar just a short stroll away, it’s an easy and enjoyable place to settle in and catch all the action.

Cross country – the course unfolds across classic rolling Norfolk countryside, providing wide, open vistas and numerous opportunities to follow the action from fence to fence. A favourite vantage point is the top of the mound beside the commentary box, where you can take in several key combinations from one strategic spot.

What else is there to do in the area?

The north Norfolk coast is renowned for its natural beauty, with miles of unspoilt coastline to explore. Stunning beaches such as Holkham and Brancaster are perfect for long walks, whether you’re stretching your legs after a busy day at the Horse Trials or giving your dog a run on the sand. The area is also home to an excellent selection of restaurants, offering everything from fresh local seafood to classic fish and chips – ideal for rounding off your visit with a great meal.