Calling All Armchair Equestrians: Your Guide to Watching the London International Horse Show in Style (Pajamas Optional)
The London International Horse Show (LIHS) is upon us! Buckle up (or, more likely, loosen your drawstring waistband) for a week of top-tier thrills, spills (hopefully not too many!), and enough four-legged finesse to make even the most cynical cat person go "aww." But what if you can't make it to ExCeL in person? Fear not, fellow horse enthusiasts, for this guide will have you whinnying with delight from the comfort of your sofa.
How Do I Watch London International Horse Show |
Saddle Up for Some TV Time:
The BBC, bless their horsey hearts, will be broadcasting highlights throughout the show. Think of it as the horsey version of Strictly Come Dancing, but with less sequins and more...well, horses. Keep an eye on the BBC listings to see which classes they'll be showing.
For the Discerning Viewer (and International Viewers):
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
Want the full lowdown? Then FEI TV is your champion steed. This subscription service will be showing ALL the FEI World Cup™ classes in jumping, dressage, and driving. It's basically the VIP section of the show, without the need for a fancy hat.
But Wait, There's More!
For those who crave coverage beyond the World Cup classes, Horse & Country TV (H&C+) is your knight in shining armor. UK viewers can snag a subscription to watch pretty much everything else that's happening. International viewers can watch everything but the World Cup classes with an H&C+ subscription. It's like a global buffet of horsey goodness!
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Important Note: H&C+ does offer a free seven-day trial, so you can basically binge-watch the whole show for free...if you have the stamina!
DIY Show Jumping at Home (Not Recommended, But We Admire the Enthusiasm):
We wouldn't recommend trying to recreate the course over your living room furniture (trust us, your ankles will thank you), but there's nothing stopping you from grabbing some popcorn and cheering along like you're ringside. Just be sure to warn your housemates about the impending enthusiastic neighing.
## Frequently Asked Questions for the Aspiring Armchair Equestrian:
QuickTip: Absorb ideas one at a time.
How to watch the FEI World Cup™ classes?
FEI TV is your best bet!
How to watch the London International Showing Series?
Horse & Country TV (H&C+) is your champion.
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
How to save some cash while still enjoying the show?
Take advantage of the free seven-day trial on H&C+ (but remember to cancel before the week is up if you don't want to be charged).
How to avoid disappointing your pet cat with all this horsey enthusiasm?
Bribery. Treats. Maybe a new feathery toy.
How to convince your significant other that watching the horse show is educational?
Let them know it's about learning about equine biomechanics and the delicate art of human-horse partnerships. It's basically a nature documentary, right?