The Ultimate Guide to Cornbury Horse Trials: Fashion, Food & Fun in the Countryside
There’s something special about the Cornbury Horse Trials. Set deep in the Cotswolds countryside, this annual event brings together world-class equestrian sport, sweeping views, and an effortlessly chic social scene. It’s the kind of day that combines mud-splattered wellies with champagne flutes, and honestly - I wouldn’t have it any other way.
This year, I had the most wonderful time attending with friends (who, believe it or not, I first met through Instagram!). Brought together by our shared love of the countryside, we’ve grown into true friends, the kind who can sit for hours over lunch, catching up and laughing until our sides ache. So what more perfect group for the most perfect setting?
For anyone planning to attend Cornbury, my first tip is simple: be prepared for the elements. The British weather can be full of surprises, and this year was no exception. One moment we were strolling through golden sunshine, the next we were running for cover as a thunderstorm rolled across the valley. With that in mind, wellies are a must: chic ankle boots won’t stand a chance once the ground softens!
That said, Cornbury is also a social affair, and dressing up is half the fun. I opted for a long-sleeved black top from Chicwish with a sweet bow collar, paired with a floral embroidered midi skirt. Practical? Perhaps not entirely. But when paired with stylish yet practical Holland Cooper wellies, it struck the perfect balance between polished and countryside-ready.
We began our day in the VIP marquee with a leisurely lunch and chilled glasses of Maison Mirabeau rosé (the event sponsors for the VIP hospitality). There’s something indulgent about sipping wine in such a beautiful setting, while horses gallop across the valley just beyond the marquee walls.
The menu itself was a celebration of the season. Smoked meats - tender beef and slow-cooked pork shoulder - melted in the mouth, rich with flavour and warmth. The turbot was exceptional, delicate and perfectly cooked, a dish that felt as elegant as the event itself. Boundless salads and colourful sides of roasted autumn vegetables completed the table, each one bursting with freshness and reminding us that this is one of the loveliest times of year to eat farm fresh produce.
Conversation flowed as easily as the rosé, laughter rising between mouthfuls, and I was reminded once again how grateful I am for these friendships - proof that Instagram can sometimes spark real, lasting connections.
After lunch, we hopped into the Aston Martin (complimentary service) and headed up the valley to catch some of the cross-country action. The timing couldn’t have been more dramatic: just as we arrived, thunder cracked across the sky, followed by lightning and a sudden downpour. Spectators scattered, and we found ourselves sheltering (happily!) in the champagne tent. Not the worst spot to ride out a storm!
Once the skies cleared, the sunshine poured back across the course, and we wandered along the fences, cheering on the riders as they tackled the challenging jumps. The combination of powerful horses, brave riders, and the stunning Cornbury estate backdrop made it a sight to remember.
Back at the marquee, we rounded off the afternoon with tea and dessert - the perfect pick-me-up after our ramble. Plates of freshly baked scones piled high with clotted cream and jam appeared alongside tumblers of eton mess, each one a swirl of cream, meringue, and late-summer strawberries. For those who preferred savoury, a lavish cheeseboard awaited - wedges of British farmhouse cheese, crisp crackers, and seasonal chutneys that felt wonderfully indulgent after an afternoon in the fresh air.
Of course, no day at an event like Cornbury would be complete without a browse through the boutiques. From heritage country brands to chic independent labels, there was plenty to tempt. It was the kind of shopping that makes you want to linger, touching fabrics, eyeing tweeds, and chatting with the makers themselves.
By the time we made our way back to the car, the day had left its mark: a little mud on our boots, wind in our hair, and smiles that hadn’t left our faces since morning. As we wound our way back through the country lanes, I couldn’t help but think how Cornbury captures the very best of the countryside: tradition, elegance, and a touch of adventure. It’s the perfect reminder of why these events matter - not just for the sport, but for the atmosphere, the friendships, and the memories made along the way.
Top Tips for Attending Cornbury Horse Trials
Wellies first. Don’t risk ruining your favourite shoes - comfort and practicality are key.
Layer up. The weather can change in an instant; a light jacket or knit is a lifesaver.
Embrace countryside chic. Florals, tweed, or a statement accessory all work beautifully.
Plan your day. The cross-country is unmissable, but don’t forget the shopping village and of course, tea in the marquee.
Bring a camera. Between the horses, the scenery, and the fashion, there are photo moments everywhere.
Cornbury isn’t just about the sport - it’s about the atmosphere, the friendships, and those little moments of joy that linger long after you’ve left. It’s a day I’ll treasure, and the girls and I are already booking it next year, to become an annual tradition.
