2012 at Belton International sees the continued development of this wonderfully popular event, set in the picturesque grounds of Belton Estate in Grantham with Sir John Brownlows’ exquisite 17th century house as the central backdrop to the events proceedings.

Three fabulously themed days designed to excite and delight the whole family, offering something for everyone, including exclusive retail therapy, fine dining, classic car displays, gun dog and canine agility shows, a traditional fun fair and much much more.

All eyes in the sport are now turning to London and in particular Greenwich for the equestrian disciplines. As the major pre Badminton event, and one of the early international dates in the calendar, Belton will be hosting many of UK’s and International top riders, all looking to gain qualification and impress the selection committees for the coming Games.

‘More than just a horse trials’ has been the long time mantra at Belton and this year is no exception, with a multitude of activities taking place along side the world class equestrian competition, that has established itself as one of the leading early dates in the UK’s eventing calendar. Captain Mark Phillips returns again as designer of the 3* and advanced courses that wind their way through this truly beautiful estate.

Friday is Lincolnshire and Ladies that Lunch day, with a Charity Luncheon taking place, tickets priced £30. This will be in association with Grantham Aga and supporting St Barnabas Hospice, Grantham. Celebrity Chef demonstrations coupled with late night shopping with over 100 tradestands (free entry after 4pm). Lincolnshire County Council will again be using the event to showcase all the wonderful elements that Lincolnshire has to offer.

Saturday is Countryside Day, with gun dog and dog agility demonstrations, ferret racing and activities for children around our new Park Arena. The Hospitality Marquee becomes the central focus for a Countryside Lunch and we see the return of the hugely popular trail blazing Inter-Hunt Relay.

Sunday is Family Day and where we see the international competition draw to its fiver pitch conclusion. In addition to the equestrian competitions and Tower Equine Stallion Parade, we have a host of arena entertainments, Grantham Classic Car Club display, a 10km run through the beautiful parkland. Have a go dog agility, pottery painting, face painting there is also the fast and furious Pony Club Games and an unaffiliated Dessage competition not to be missed.

Three days, tailored to make each visit a veritable feast of excitement, action, fun and enjoyment for young and old alike.

Advance tickets and all the lunch packages are now available to purchase online at www.granthamcup.co.uk giving you a significant saving on gate prices as well as avoiding some of the traffic congestion on the day. Don’t forget that children under 14 are free!