Little Badminton is a small village located in the county of Gloucestershire, England. It is situated in the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which makes it a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the picturesque countryside. The village is known for its beautiful architecture, including the 17th-century St. Michael and All Angels Church, which is a Grade I listed building. Little Badminton is also famous for its annual horse trials, which attract thousands of visitors from all over the world.
The Badminton Horse Trials is one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world, and it has been held in Little Badminton since 1949. The event takes place over three days in May and attracts some of the best riders and horses from around the globe. The trials consist of three disciplines: dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. The cross-country course is particularly challenging, with over 30 obstacles spread over a distance of four miles. The event is not just about the competition, but also about the social scene, with many visitors enjoying picnics and parties in the beautiful parkland surrounding the trials.
Little Badminton is also home to the Badminton Estate, which covers over 17,000 acres of land. The estate has been owned by the Duke of Beaufort's family since the 17th century and is one of the largest privately owned estates in the country. The estate is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and badgers, and it is a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. The estate also has a number of historic buildings, including the 18th-century Badminton House, which is the family home of the Duke of Beaufort. The house is open to the public on certain days of the year and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.