Calling All Armchair Equestrians! How to Watch the London International Horse Show From the Comfort of Your Sofa (Without Spilling Your Tea)
The London International Horse Show (LIHS) is upon us! Brace yourselves for a whirlwind of equestrian excellence, from dazzling dressage to heart-stopping jumping. But what if tickets are sold out, or your budget is more "neigh sayer" than "neigh neigh"? Fear not, fellow horse enthusiasts, because this guide will turn you into a pro at watching the LIHS from the prime position of your sofa – beverage of choice in hand (because spilling tea is strictly for the royals).
Saddle Up for Some Sweet TV Action
The BBC, that bastion of British broadcasting, rides to the rescue! They'll be showcasing a generous chunk of the competition, so you can witness the best of the best strut their stuff (or should we say, trot their stuff?). Keep an eye out for the schedule – it's not out yet, but trust us, it'll be packed with enough neigh-tastic moments to keep you glued to the screen.
But Wait, There's More!
The BBC might not be able to show everything (those sneaky devils!), but fret not! Here's where things get interesting:
- FEI TV: Craving a global gallop through the world of equestrianism? FEI TV has you covered! They'll be streaming all the FEI World Cup classes – jumping, dressage, and even driving (because who doesn't love a good carriage race?). Just be warned, you'll need a subscription to join the ride.
- Horse & Country TV: This equestrian haven offers a goldmine of content, and the LIHS is no exception. They'll be streaming all the classes that the BBC doesn't cover, so you basically get the full shebang (minus the FEI World Cup stuff, that's FEI TV's territory). Just like FEI TV, you'll need to be a subscriber to watch, but hey, there might be a free trial waiting for you!
So, how do you choose your champion broadcaster?
- The BBC loyalist: You love a bit of free, classic British telly, and the BBC commentators feel like old friends. Stick with them!
- The global dressage devotee: FEI TV is your dream come true, with coverage from all corners of the equestrian world.
- The all-encompassing enthusiast: Horse & Country is your one-stop shop, as long as you don't mind opening your wallet (a little).
Bonus Tip: Check the LIHS website for any last-minute updates or schedule changes. You wouldn't want to miss a single prance or prance-off, would you?
FAQs for the Armchair Equestrian
How to find the BBC schedule? Keep an eye on the BBC website and listings for the latest information.
How much does FEI TV cost? Subscription prices can change, so check their website for current rates.
How long is the Horse & Country TV free trial? This can vary, so check their website for current offers.
Can I watch replays of the LIHS? Depending on the broadcaster, replays might be available. Check their websites for details.
Is there a dress code for watching the LIHS from home? Nope! Wear your pajamas, your finest attire, or anything that makes you feel comfortable. Just remember, tea spills are frowned upon (unless you're dressed as the Queen).
