Winter Classic Series
Welcome to the British Showjumping Winter Classics Series
Running October to March, the Winter Classics Series delivers a premium national jumping circuit across the UK — combining top-class competition, championship qualifiers, and a pathway for developing young horses and riders.
What is the Winter Classics Series?
The Winter Classics is a seasonal showjumping series organised by British Showjumping, held during the autumn and winter months (October through March). It brings together a programme of qualifying classes, championship rounds, and finals across a wide range of levels and age groups.
Competitors can contest:
• Winter Grade C
• Winter 1.35 m / National Winter 1.35 m
• Winter Novice
• Under 25
• UNIBED – High Performance Equine Bedding Winter Grade B & C
• 6- and 7-year-old qualifiers (from January to March)
• Blue Chip qualifiers (various classes)
The series culminates in championship finals held at major indoor and spring shows, making it one of the flagship domestic showjumping programmes in the UK.
Competition Levels & Heights
The Winter Classics accommodate a breadth of heights to suit different classes and horse-rider combinations. Qualification rules often require a clear in the first round.
Championships & Finals Venues
The Winter Classics season leads into finals held at prestigious shows across the UK. Key final venues include:
• London International Horse Show (ExCeL London)
• Royal International Horse Show (Hickstead)
• British Showjumping Winter Championships (Formally the Spring Championships)
These finals bring together the top qualifiers from the Winter Classics circuit, giving riders and horses a high-profile stage for their national championship performances.
Event Locations & Schedule
Winter Classics events take place at a variety of indoor / all-weather equestrian centres around the UK. Recent and recurring venues include:
• Aintree International Equestrian Centre — Winter Classic shows in January
• Arena UK — Winter Classic show in January
• South View Equestrian Centre — hosts Winter Classic qualifiers in February
• Kelsall Hill (for additional qualifiers)
The full calendar of Winter Classic shows (venues, dates, and qualifier schedules) is published annually on the British Showjumping website.
What’s Included for Competitors
By participating in a Winter Classic show, riders may benefit from:
• The opportunity to compete in qualifier classes (Grade C, 1.35 m, Under 25, B & C, 6-/7-year-old)
• The chance to earn a qualification to finals at major shows
• Access to Blue Chip qualifiers integrated into certain classes
• A consistent winter circuit across multiple venues
• Indoor/all-weather facilities to maintain competition through the colder months
British Showjumping may, in some seasons, adjust the number of qualifying slots (e.g. adding extra qualification places) depending on cancellations or scheduling changes.