Horse and Pony Section 2026
The Horse and Pony section is a major part of the Ryedale Show, with a full day of competition and displays across multiple rings. Featuring a wide range of classes from in-hand showing and ridden classes to working hunter and driving, the section attracts competitors from across the region and beyond.
With eight rings running throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a continuous programme of equestrian activity, showcasing quality horses and ponies, skilled horsemanship and traditional showing classes.
About Our Horse & Pony Section
🐴 Showing & Breeding Classes
A wide variety of in-hand and ridden classes are held throughout the day, including Mountain & Moorland, hunters, riding horses, cobs and coloured classes. There are also specialist breed classes such as Cleveland Bays, Irish Draughts, Shires and Clydesdales, alongside hunter breeding and youngstock classes.
These classes highlight both the quality of breeding and the skill of exhibitors, with championships held across many sections.
🏆 Qualifiers & Competition Highlights
The show hosts a number of prestigious qualifying classes, including qualifiers for the London International Horse Show and the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse series.
The popular Rising Stars classes provide opportunities for amateur riders to compete at a high level, with classes for ridden hunters, working hunters, cobs, hacks and riding horses.
🐎 Working Hunter & Performance Classes
Working hunter and working show horse classes combine jumping and showing, testing both the athletic ability and presentation of horse and rider. These classes are always a highlight, offering exciting competition and a great spectacle for visitors.
Style and performance classes also feature, focusing on ride quality, harmony and overall presentation.
🐴 Heavy Horses & Traditional Displays
Heavy horses play an important role in the show, with classes for Shires and Clydesdales, as well as young handler competitions.
In the Main Ring, visitors can enjoy traditional displays including heavy horses in plough harness, turnout classes and parades, celebrating the heritage of working horses in agriculture.
🎠 Main Ring Entertainment
The Horse & Pony section also contributes to the Main Ring programme, with events including mounted fancy dress, private driving, Pony Club mounted games and the Grand Parade.
These displays provide a fantastic showcase of horsemanship, tradition and entertainment for all ages.