Historic demos reveal origins of dressage

Charlotte and Carl are often credited with bringing dressage to prominence in Britain but the sport first came here more than 350 hundred years ago.

Haute ecole

You can see how it all began at a number of dressage demonstrations at Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire.

It was William Cavendish the first Duke of Newcastle who introduced “haute ecole” to the UK. He was the riding master to King Charles II and used ground-breaking new training methods which were kinder than those used by his contemporaries.

His methods were published in a book in 1658 many of which are still relevant in modern dressage.

Revolutionary methods

William imported horses from as far afield as Turkey and North Africa and trained them at Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire, where he built the Riding House.

The indoor arena is the oldest in Britain and still being used today for demonstrations.

From April to October, leading experts in historic and classical equitation will host a series of events there, showcasing Cavendish’s revolutionary methods.

You can watch horses being trained at the ‘pillar’ – the white post Sir William used to encourage the horses to move in ever-decreasing circles. The displays will be set to baroque music and riders will be dressed in period clothing.

Inspiration and motivation

Debbie Houldsworth, English Heritage events manager: “It is an incredible experience to watch the horses and riders working through various stages of training, including for some, performing high airs in the historic atmosphere of the Riding House.

“But more than that, riders at every level will gain invaluable practical tips as well as inspiration and motivation from Cavendish which is sure to give fresh impetus to their own riding.”

For more information and prices visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover