The UK’s premier spring event for horse lovers, The National Equine Show 2026, returns to the NEC Birmingham next weekend, from 28 February to 1 March 2026.
Set to welcome over 15,000 equestrian enthusiasts, the 2026 edition delivers a premier retail destination featuring a curated selection of more than 200 global brands. Attendees will discover the cutting edge of equestrian apparel, performance technology and equine wellness, complemented by a dynamic programme of interactive demonstrations.
A major highlight of the 2026 show is the appearance of the Paris 2024 Olympic gold medal-winning British eventing team — Ros Canter, Laura Collett and Tom McEwen — who will reunite on stage for an exclusive Gold Medal XC Mastermind Live session. Their appearance marks one of the most anticipated equestrian line-ups of the year, giving fans a rare opportunity to hear first-hand insights from their historic Olympic victory and what it takes to win gold on the world stage.
Don’t miss the inaugural ‘Influencer Games’ on the Saracens Horse Feeds Inspiration Stage. Watch your favourite equestrian stars go head-to-head in this high-energy session – which team will you be cheering for? Featuring Freddy Steele, Hannah Sims (@sillyprune), Sam Dracott, Harlow Luna White, Joe Ashman, Simon Grieve and Demir Topcu.
The event also offers fans exclusive access to their heroes through a series of Meet & Greets with celebrated riders, digital influencers and community icons.
The newly unveiled agenda features a robust line-up of inspirational and thought-provoking sessions designed to tackle the industry’s most pressing topics and emerging trends.
Show highlights include:
The Saracens Horse Feeds Inspiration Stage, sponsored by Saracens Horse Feeds and hosted by Rosie Turner, features fireside chats, panel discussions and live podcasts with leading lights in the industry. Inspiration Stage special sessions include live recordings of the ‘Poles, Piaffe and Prosecco’ podcast, as well as the Gold Medal XC Mastermind Live panel. This exclusive session features the Paris 2024 Olympic gold-winning eventing team: Ros Canter, Laura Collett and Tom McEwen.
Popular Meet & Greets, sponsored by GS Equestrian and Country, are returning, allowing enthusiasts to get up close and interact with their heroes. Opportunities include appearances from Gemma Owen, Megan Elphick, Esme Higgs, Harlow Luna White, Sam Dracott, Hannah Sims ‘Silly Prune’, Khadijah Mellah, Sam Wolfenden, Ros Canter, Laura Collett and Tom McEwen.
The 360 Skills Theatre, sponsored by The Society of Master Saddlers, is packed with talks and workshops from industry experts. Event attendees have the unique opportunity to learn from a diverse array of professionals on topics including nutrition, photography, fitness and mindset.
Further engaging features and spaces geared to benefit enthusiasts of all ages and abilities include:
The Mindset Space with Flying Changes Mindset – transforming the way riders approach confidence, performance and connection with their horses. Flying Changes Mindset has a full agenda on their stand and is also running its popular 1-to-1 coaching sessions.
The Rider Wellness Zone in collaboration with EqueSoul Fitness – taster sessions across the weekend, including EqueStretch, EqueSculpt, EqueStrength and EqueCore, will focus on horse and rider welfare by educating equestrians on their personal wellness.
The Hobby Horse Arena by Hobby Horse Adventures – visit the Hobby Horse Arena to collect your official sticker, rider number and a qualifier certificate for both the International Competition at Thoresby Park (1–2 March) and the Championship at Croft Top Equestrian Centre (26 April).
The PolyJumps Eventer Experience, sponsored by PolyJumps – test your eventer skills in the most advanced, state-of-the-art equestrian simulator.
Meet the Therapy Ponies with Lunar Eclipse EFL Therapy Horses CIC – discover the magic of Lunar Eclipse, a non-profit organisation dedicated to redefining equine-facilitated learning and wellness.
The Bra Fitting Boutique, sponsored by MAAREE – movement matters, and getting the right support affects balance, posture and the connection with your horse.
Turnout Showcase with Smart Grooming – an interactive and educational learning experience covering all aspects of grooming, show preparation, clipping and trimming.
The Pony Club Zone, sponsored by The Pony Club – an action-packed Pony Club experience with fun activities and engaging talks.
Julie Driver Pilates Education Zone – an experienced UK and international Pilates teacher (25+ years), Julie creates tailored programmes for equestrians.
The Dressage Experience, sponsored by Zoetis – experience the precision of elite horsemanship at the National Equine Show, where you can test your skills on the world-class Racewood Dressage Simulator. Engineered to replicate authentic Grand Prix movements, including the highly technical piaffe and passage, this simulator offers a true-to-life riding experience. While you’re at the stand, be sure to connect with our official sponsor, Zoetis, to learn more about their latest innovations in equine health.
Equine Meet & Greet Zone, sponsored by Atelier Equine – don’t miss the chance to bond with some of your favourite ponies at the National Equine Show. The Equine Meet & Greet Area is open to everyone but be sure to arrive early as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Event Director Liz Ormesher comments: “We are preparing to host our most ambitious National Equine Show to date. With a record number of premium exhibitors and an expected all-time high in attendance, the energy surrounding this year’s event is unmatched. Our team has worked tirelessly to curate a world-class programme of immersive, educational sessions and interactive activities across both days. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who supports the show – particularly our partners and sponsors, whose vision and loyalty make this possible. We look forward to welcoming you all to this year’s equestrian wonderland.”
Last tickets for the National Equine Show 2026 are available to purchase now – buy online for a special discounted £5 off the on-the-door price.