Gallery: Olympia’s past history

The London International Horse Show at Olympia (15-21 December) is one of the most loved shows in the equestrian calendar – and it has a rich history going back more than a century.

History of the show

In 2007 Olympia celebrated its 100thanniversary, making it one of the oldest horse shows in the world.

The venue itself opened on Boxing Day in 1886, when it was called the National Agricultural Hall. After just one year they staged the first Great Horse show – that was later to become the London International Horse Show that we know and love today. Show jumping was added to the programme in 1907.

Below are some amazing shots taken from the show over the ages – some date back to 1908. It’s incredible how things have changed – but in many ways, it hasn’t changed at all. Enjoy.

Photos courtesy of Hpower and the Brooks-Ward family