A Bristol equine charity is set to welcome visitors through its gates this weekend (Saturday 25 July) for Horse Fest, its annual open day.

HorseWorld, which is Bristol’s oldest equine rescue centre, will open the doors to its 180-acre site in Whitchurch and allow members of public to attend its open day for the first time since 2024. 

The event was cancelled last year due to an outbreak of Strep Zoo, a setback which cost the charity around £20,000 in fundraising.

Ride a robot

Attractions at this year’s event will include the chance for visitors to ride ‘RoboCob’ the robot horse, take part in the Hobby Horse Grand National and meet residents such as Shetland ponies, Jewels and Ariel, and Shire horse, Dime.

Also in attendance will be Avon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service who will demonstrate horse rescue techniques using their model horse. 

There will be food and drink stalls, merchandise stands, the chance to sponsor an animal, and the opportunity to meet many of the other rescued horses living on the farm. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or chairs, to enjoy their own picnic or food bought on-site. 

‘Better than ever’

“After the disappointment of last year’s cancellation, Horse Fest is back and it’s better than ever,” said Jo Coombs, ceo of HorseWorld.

“Our Open Day is one of the most important events in our calendar, both for the funds it raises and for the chance it gives the general public to come and see the work we do first-hand. 

“At just £8 for adults and free for under 16s, we hope it’s also a great value day out for families. 

“In 2024, we saw over 2,000 visitors through the day, so we can’t wait to fling open our gates and welcome everyone back in again.”

For more information and to buy tickets, click here. 

Image © HorseWorld.

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