From Thursday 14 to Sunday 17 May 2026, the Performance Hub returns to Royal Windsor Horse Show with a dynamic four-day programme of live interviews, expert insights and interactive experiences – bringing the stories, personalities and behind-the-scenes moments of the sport into sharp focus.
Set within the private grounds of Windsor Castle, the Hub has become one of the most engaging spaces at Royal Windsor Horse Show. Here, the world-class competition seen in the arena is unpacked, explored and brought to life, offering visitors rare access to the people, expertise and traditions that define one of the most prestigious events in the international equestrian calendar.
At its heart, the programme is built around conversation and access. Talk Horse returns on Thursday 14 May, with Pippa Funnell and Tristan Phipps hosting a series of live podcast recordings that promise insight, honesty and plenty of personality. Alongside them, leading international Show Jumpers will join the line-up across the week, offering a first-hand perspective from the very top of the sport.
From there, the programme moves seamlessly between sport, service and heritage. Across the opening days, members of The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery – including Sergeant Alana Stirton and Sergeant Josh Tate – will share the precision, discipline and dedication behind one of the British Army’s most iconic ceremonial units. Later in the week, the Thames Valley Mounted Police will add a further dimension, giving audiences a broader understanding of horses at work beyond the competitive arena, while also being a familiar presence as they ride through and around the Showground across the week.
On Thursday 14 May, Viscountess Violet Garnock (née Manners) – founder of HeritageXplore – will explore the enduring ties between the British countryside, country houses and equestrian culture, while Adam Scott, Gardens and Nursery Manager at Windsor Castle and Bagshot Park, will offer a rare glimpse into the horticultural landscape of the private grounds across Friday 15 and Saturday 16 May.
As the Show builds towards the weekend, the focus turns to the craft and detail behind Showing at the highest level. Vicky Smith, Robert Walker and judge Nigel Hollings will take to the stage across Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May, sharing insight into a discipline where precision, presentation and tradition are paramount. Earlier in the programme, on Thursday 14 May, Richard Davison will also feature on the Hub ahead of the Defender Dressage Masterclass, offering insight into the partnership and precision required at the highest level of Dressage.
The Performance Hub also captures the lighter, much-loved moments that define Royal Windsor Horse Show. Across the weekend, the Defender Shetland Pony Grand National will be brought to life within the Hub, giving audiences a closer look at one of the Show’s most iconic and entertaining highlights.
Creativity and craftsmanship are woven throughout the programme. On Saturday 16 May, Zoë Carmichael, winner of the Royal Windsor Horse Show Scarf Design Competition, will discuss the inspiration behind her design, offering a contemporary interpretation of the Show’s rich equestrian heritage.
The Hub will also welcome equestrian influencer and Show Ambassador This Esme for a Meet & Greet on Sunday 17 May – set to be one of the standout moments of the week for younger visitors. Daily LeMieux Hobby Horse sessions will add an interactive and playful element, ensuring there is something for all ages.
Adding a further layer of refinement, Champagne Pol Roger will host a series of masterclasses throughout the Show. Led by Managing Director James Simpson and members of the Pol Roger team, these sessions will offer guests an opportunity to explore the heritage, craft and character behind one of the world’s most celebrated Champagne houses.
The programme will also shine a light on Royal Windsor Horse Show’s Official Show Charity for 2026, Warrior Equine. Founder Ele Milwright and Chief Instructor Jim Goddard will lead a dedicated session exploring the role of horses in supporting the wellbeing of veterans and serving personnel – a powerful reminder of the impact of equestrianism beyond sport.
Looking ahead, Zoe Roll will introduce EQUISS, a new independent safeguarding initiative launching at the Performance Hub, focused on supporting individuals across the equestrian sector and driving improved standards and accountability.
Simon Brooks-Ward, Chairman of Royal Windsor Horse Show, said: “The Performance Hub has become an integral and much-loved part of the Royal Windsor Horse Show experience, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage directly with the people and expertise behind the sport at the highest level. This year’s programme reflects the breadth of the Show itself, bringing together leading figures from across the industry in a way that is both accessible and engaging, while remaining true to the heritage of the event.”
Blending access, insight and atmosphere, the Performance Hub offers a different way to experience Royal Windsor Horse Show – one that brings visitors closer not only to the sport, but to the stories, expertise and traditions that sit behind it.
