Don’t miss the London Harness Horse Parade!

Enjoy a fun, horse-filled day out at this traditional Easter event

Ready for a super-special Easter treat? Then, mark your diary for Easter Monday, 6 April 2026, when the South of England Centre in Ardingly will be bursting with horses, history and horsepower! With more than 100 horse-drawn vehicles taking part – plus amazing vintage and veteran motor vehicles – it’s like stepping back in time.

First started in 1885, this fantastic Easter day out shows how transport has changed from beautiful horse-drawn carriages right through to mechanical vehicles. There will also be classic cars, fun trade stands, yummy refreshments and even horse-drawn wagon rides. How cool is that?!

This year, you’ll have the chance to meet a real Chelsea Pensioner from the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Dressed in their famous scarlet coats and black peaked caps, these inspirational army veterans are regular visitors to the parade. You might even get the chance to have your photo taken with one!

The event combines the historic London Cart Horse Parade and the London Van Horse Parade (which began in 1904) and many carriage-driving families have been coming for generations, making it a true Easter tradition.

What’s happening on the day?

Gates open at 8am, so you can watch the horses being groomed and harnessed to perfection – a must for any pony fan!

• 9am: Static display of cars and stationary engines
• 10.15am: Veterinary and farriery inspections
• 10.30am: Judging of the light and heavy horse turnouts
• 12.30–1pm: Main parade and prize presentation

As a registered charity, the London Harness Horse Parade works hard to promote excellent standards of horse and pony care, encouraging owners to show their animals at their very best. So, to find out more and for advance tickets, click here.