In 1960, Hickstead founder Douglas Bunn welcomed the first competitors and visitors to the All England Jumping Course in West Sussex.
It was the realisation of his dream of creating a venue that could rival those on the continent, and very soon Hickstead became known as the home of British show jumping.
Five decades on and Hickstead is now established as one of the most famous showjumping venues in the world. In the years since the showground first opened its doors, hundreds of the sports brightest stars have been crowned champion in the International Arena, while millions of showjumping fans have packed the grandstands to witness those glories.
In additional to thrilling showjumping action, there are hundreds of showing championships, plus there’s carriage driving, scurry driving, sidesaddle, polo and more. And when you can tear yourself away from the action in the arena, there is a huge shopping village to browse, a new food area promoted by Food Rocks, a myriad of dining options to choose from and some fabulous family entertainment on offer.
“The Hickstead Derby itself has become a national institution – it’s one of those events a bit like the Grand National where it’s the not just the runners and the riders that make the headlines but the course itself. It’s an iconic showjumping contest, the like of which you won’t find anywhere else in the world; no other course asks this much of a test of horse and rider and no other course creates the type of drama”
Clare Balding
“Nicholas Colquhoun-Denvers, the Chairman of the HPA, delighted at the new arena facility declared recently that ‘Hickstead has created one of the most modern and impressive arenas in the country. Not only has it hosted very successful international matches but it has worked hard to encourage the young to play.”
Hickstead, the home of British showjumping
Contact The All England Jumping Course
The All England Jumping Course
Hickstead
West Sussex
RH17 5NU
T: +44 1273 834 315
