What'sOn
YOUR EXCLUSIVE GUIDE TO THE WELLINGTON ESTATE HAVE YOU TRIED PADEL TENNIS? FIND OUT WHAT THE LATEST SPORTING CRAZE IS ALL ABOUT AND BOOK YOUR FREE INTRODUCTORY SESSION AT THE BARNS AT WELLINGTON
TAKE YOUR PICK AND ENTER OUR WINTER COMPETITIONS FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN WONDERFUL EXPERIENCES ACROSS THE WELLINGTON ESTATE INCLUDING A FAMILY TICKET TO OUR WINTER LIGHT TRAIL, WELLINGTON
DELVE INSIDE OUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE FOR YOUR FREE COPY OF WELLINGTON FARM SHOPS FAVOURITE WINTER RECIPES AND FIND FESTIVE FOOD INSPIRATION WITH THE CLICK AND COLLECT SERVICE
Welcome
Discover thelatest edition of TheWellington W hat’s On Guide, offering a unique glimpseintolife on TheWellington Estate.
The magazine features an interview with Kim Williamson, who works on the Estate, overseeing sustainable gardening and growing for Wellington Farm Shopand coordinating shoot lunches atStratfield Saye House.
Gain an insider's perspective with an interview with the production company Zeal, highlighting the creative process behind bringing Wellington Country Park’s winter lighttrail tolife.
Also, explore our delicious complimentary recipes, including Salmon with Prosecco Beurre Blanc Sauce and more.
Competitions
Enjoysomewinterwinswithus,don’tmiss our5differentcompetitionsgiveawaysas yourreadthiseditionofTheWellington What’sOnGuide.
GoodLuck!
WELLINGTON WINDOW
TellusaboutyourroleonThe WellingtonEstate?
My role is very varied, working across different parts of the Estate. I joined WellingtonFarm Shoparound 7 yearsago. I lovethe rural element ofmy jobbecause it varies depending on theseason. In the summer, it’s all abouttending to plants thatI grow for WellingtonFarm Shop, watering them and managing the compostheaps.
During thewinter season,I assistin setting up special lunches for guests at the Stratfield SayeShoot, using foodprovided byWellington Farm Shop.Thistakes place from theend of September to theend of January.
In thesummer, you can find me helping out in thecafé at Stratfield Saye House’s Visitor Centre when the private home of theDukeand Duchessisopen fortours. WhatdoesatypicalShootdaylook
Theshoot days at the Old Museum,within the private grounds of Stratfield Saye House, are always fun. Over the years I have gotten to know familiar faces who are regulars on theshoots. I start a shoot dayby standing quietlybehind thedoor of the old joining workshop (nownamed the Old Museum) I have learned, from experience, toopen the doors very slowly dueto encounteringuninvited guests including squirrels bouncing off the walls andbirdsflying around!
I helpprepare thetable with seasonal foliage and take pride that it never looks the same. The ambience is set with candles and the fires are litto warm guests aftera morning out on the Estate. Wethen serve a lunch of Cumberland sausages, cheesy mash andbutter leaks, before dessert of lemon meringue and cream.
Canyoutellusmoreaboutthe gardeningelementofyourjob?
When I’m working, I take the old vegetables from theshopandputthem on one of5 compost heaps, which after6 months of turning over get used in our gardens I’ve had great success with potatoes and gourdsthis year, which I’ve passed on totheFarm Shop tobesold.
I’ve also grown lots of chardbecause it grows back easilywhen cut In addition, I’veputa varietyof seedsandbulbsinside theGardening Barn whichalsogetsold in theFarm Shop.
Typically,our hyacinths are frozen and set off in November to have them flowerby Christmas. Ittricksthem into thinking it’s growing season As for the unsoldbulbs, I collected them in apaperbag to dry and then storethem I’ve recentlyfound them all sprouting!
Didyouknow?
Ollie, the forester on The Wellington Estate, collected Willow cuttings and conkers I put them in thistime last yearand mostof theSaplings were6 inches high whenhecollected them to plant back on the Estate grounds. Top tip, don’t bury conkers in thesoil as theydon’tgrow,placethem ontop!
Tellusaboutthedifferentanimals atWellingtonFarmShop?
We have Poppy and Luna, ourresident cats. Poppy originally came from Battersea Dogs home and was initially feral, butshe’s become quite friendly over the years Afterbeing adopted when she was2 years old, she’s now 12 years old. Now,when I’m pottingup,she’ll comeand siton mylap or neverbetoofar fromme.
Luna, on the other hand, wandered in from down the roadand gave birth toa litter of 6 kittens in ourbarn. Despite being collectedand taken back home with her kittens, she decided to come back and makeWellington Farm Shop her homewherewenowlook after her.
We also a lovely highland cow whichI have been tending to forabout 2 anda halfyears Becausesherecognisesme and myvoiceIcanhand-feed her to check up onher coat and general health I haveto keepabeady eye onherandreport back to the Farm Managerabout how they are getting on.
Noday isever thesame. It makes working on the Estate a special placeto work, that’sfor sure.
We'rea family-friendlydestination fora funday or an overnight stay in the countryside. Enjoy adventure play areas, woodland trails, an animal farm and more. Perfect for children up to 8 greatfor groupvisits, schooltrips andevents. Come for a day of outdoor fun, fresh air, and lasting memories!
Discover the enchanting journey of Wellington Illuminovathis winterand be transported into a realm where dreams come to life. Aninteractivelight trailthatis perfect for all ages with limited slots for a truly bespokeexperience.
MAKING OF LLINGTON MINOVA
Wehaveafantasticteam workingaroundtheclockto workonallofthestagesof theproject,fromstudio programminganddesignto technologyandelectrical testing. For the third year, Wellington Country Park is excited to presentWellington Illuminova, auniquelighttrailcreatedwith Zeal, a production company fromBasingstoke.
Together, we wanted to createa lighttrail thatoffers more than just beautiful surroundings—an interactive experiencethatputsguests at the centre. This winter, we invite visitors to explore, immersethemselves andlet their imaginations run wild again.
WINTERTIMEAT THEANIMALFARM
Apeekbehindtheclosedgates
WhenWellingtonCountryParkclosesitsgatesfor thewinter,lifeattheAnimalFarmisanythingbut quiet.
Rosie,oneofthefarm'scherishedponies,gets extratreatsandacosycoattohelpherstaywarm duringthecoldermonths.
Thesmalleranimals,likerabbitsandguineapigs, aremovedindoorstokeepthemsnugandwarm, safefromthechillywinds.Withextrabedding, theystaycomfortablethroughoutthewinter,just likewedounderourblankets.Winterisalsoa timeforhealthchecks.Withfewervisitors,the teamcanfocusonensuringeveryanimalisin peakcondition.
Otheranimalsalsogettoenjoytheoff-seasonin uniqueways.Theytaketurnsexploringthepark, withalpacasgrazingattheentranceandponies wanderingpathsusuallyreservedforvisitors. Addingabitofexcitementtothequieterwinter days.
PADEL TENNIS
at The Barns at Wellington
Play through the seasons with our premium indoor and outdoor Padel Tennis Courts.
Fun,Fit
Do you want to join our all-access membership but you have never played Padel before?
We have everything you need, you can rent your racquets and purchase Padel balls from us to be ready to smash your first game.
Once you are a member and as your skills progress, join our fun Padel Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced drill sessions. You will meet likeminded people while perfecting the fundamentals of your grip, aim, control, and precision to improve your game Our members WhatsApp group gives everyone a chance to be part of our fun and social community.
N S
MEET OUR COACHES
kevin Padel Coach
how did you get into padel?
I found a sports resort in Lanzarote about 10 years ago that had everything you could imagine, including Padel. I immediately thought that someone had created a sport for me. I fell in love with the game from the off and I used to play it 3 to 4 weeks a year when I was out in Lanzarote… but then luckily for me, The Barns at Wellington opened I became a member at The
Barns and my love for Padel grew from there. I always say to new players, as you learn more about the game, your Padel addiction will begin! As you start to learn the sport, it becomes more and more fascinating. It becomes a game of chess where you are trying to move the opponents around and get them out of position so that you can win the point.
three top tips...
hoes! There is sand on the court so it can be very slippery ut them. Tennis shoes are not Padel shoes. your friend oy it!
ROSEBUD
Padel Coach
how did you hear about the barns at wellington?
I saw an advert for The Barns and wanted to check out Padel. I had heard about it from having a racket background and so I came and did an Intro Class here… and from then on I was addicted! I absolutely loved it from the start. I had heard of Padel before but never had the opportunity to play. I’m always curious, so it was lovely learning a new skill set and sport. The social aspect is huge too, as Padel is played as doubles.
three top tips...
1 Learn the rules – ask someone at The Barns how to score and the best ways to play. Introduce yourself to someone and say hello!
3. The glass is your best friend. Have fun and enjoy!
2. Book in a session with a coach to understand the main technical and tactical aspects of the game. Many players come from a tennis background, and padel is a very different game; learning the foundations of padel is important rather than just playing tennis on a padel court.
TheDukeofWellington’sEstatewasthrilled tohostthe13thWellingtonInternational HorseTrialsandCountryFairoverfourdays fromthe23rd tothe26th ofAugust,with1096 affiliatedcompetitors.
Thisyear,wewerepleasedtosee12nations representedatFEIlevel,includingTommy GreengardfromtheUSA,whowascompetingin theUKforthefirsttime,aimingforLeLiond’Angers withThat’sMeZ.
Wewereincrediblyproudtowelcomeseveral OlympiansfreshfromParisandnumeroushighprofileridersfromaroundthecountry.
Theeventslocationisreservedallyearroundonly forthesolepurposeoftheHorseTrialstoensure competitorsthebestgroundpossiblefortopqualitysport.
EvenwiththewetweatheronSaturday,our groundwasmeasuredandpraisedtobe “perfectgoing”byrespectedgroundsexpert MarkLucey.
Afterintroducingareinstatedfishinglake andwatercomplexforcompetitorsto experiencein2023,wewereexcitedto announceanimprovedviewpointfor2024, allowingvisitorstogetupclosetoallthe cross-countryaction.
“TheWellingtonEstateslakewasfurther developedforthisyear'sevent,withthe 1*and2*classesandequivalentnational classesbeingabletoexperiencethe newfeature.Thelakeisbecominga prominentfeatureofthelandscape andwillplayacrucialroleinfuture events.
Atotalof12newfenceswerebuiltforthis year'stracksacrossallclasses,which
DAYSOF COMPETITION
AFFILIATED COMPETITORS
OLYMPICRIDERS
INTERNATIONAL COUNTRIES REPRESENTED
CROSS COUNTRY COURSES
includedopencornersonMIM'ssafety systems,arrowheadbrushesfor Intermediateand3*classes,and cornersforthe100and105/1*classes.
Thecross-countrytrackscontinueto presentasignificantchallengeatall levels,helpinginthedevelopmentof horsesandridersastheyprogressto theirnextstages.Itisalsoestablishing itselfasadestinationeventformany.” AdrianDitcham,CourseDesigner.
TheCountryFairhasbeenvery successfulinrecentyearsduetothe varietyofactivities,arenadisplaysand tradestands,bringingequestrianand non-familiesacrosstheSouthof Englandtogether.
Familieswelcomednewentertainment andattractions,suchastheKnightsof MiddleEnglandandtheShetlandPony GrandNational.Aperfectwaytoround offthesummerholidaysandchildren under12wentfree.
“I’msoproudofwhattheteam achievedthisyearatWellington InternationalHorseTrialswithover 1000horsescompetingovernine coursesthroughouttheweekend.
Thegroundheldupincrediblywell.It waswonderfultoreceivesuchgreat feedbackfromMarkLuceythatthe groundgoingwasfoot-perfectacross thefieldsofplay.
Theeventwouldn’tbepossiblewithout thesupportofHisGrace,TheDukeof Wellington.
Iamimmenselygratefultothe volunteersandofficialsfortheir contributionsandforhelpingusbring thesporttothepublicinsucha positiveway.” DavidSheerinFBHS, EventDirector.
CryoTherapy
at The Barns at Wellington
Cryotherapy is an effective method for alleviating muscle soreness, inflammation, and fatigue following rigorous training or competition. This cold therapy accelerates recovery, improves circulation, and aids in injury prevention.
Following your initial consultation, you will spend three minutes in the dry chamber, accompanied by music of your choice.
At temperatures reaching -85˚C, the body is stimulated to release endorphins, enhance blood circulation, increase metabolism, detoxify cells, and activate healing processes. The result is a sensation of regeneration, rejuvenation, and balance.
wellingtonbarns.co.uk
NEW TO CRYO?
Revitalise yourself and experience rapid recovery with a refreshing cold blast!
Unlike ice baths, which can last up to 15 minutes, Cryotherapy offers a quick 3 minute session of intense cold exposure This method uses dry, frigid air to effectively reduce muscle soreness and inflammation, without the discomfort of sitting in icy water.
Cryotherapy provides a fast, comfortable recovery option with less skin irritation and minimal downtime, making it easier to fit into a busy schedule and enjoy the benefits of cold therapy.
INTRODUCTORY offer PRICE ONLY £10 Click to find out more
wellingtonfarmshop.co.uk
Wonderful Organic BronzedTurkey reared ontheBerkshireDowns, abletofree-roaminthe beautifulcountryside foradeliciouslyrichand fullflavour.
Ourhandy Roast TrimmingsBox contains alltheessentialfestive sides,vegetablesand saucesforaChristmas dinner.
Getreadyforamemorable Christmasspreadthisyearwith ourwonderfulonlineshop…
Our FestiveCooked Ham isslow-cookedonsiteatWellingtonFarm ShopbyourHeadChef. Glazedwithmaple syrup,studdedwith clovesandahintof winterspice.
Perfectforarelaxed Christmasmorningour ChristmasBreakfastBox containsBlackPudding, Bacon,Sausages,Eggs, Tomatoesand Mushrooms.Availablein twosizes.
PrimeFore-Rib from ourHerefordherd grazedonthewater meadowshereat StratfieldSaye.Dryagedformorethan21 daysfortaste&texture.
The BoxingDayBox containsaPloughman's stylefestivefeastwithall theessentialsforrelaxed eatingonBoxingDay thatgoesperfectlywith Christmasleftovers
Weofferanonlineclick-and-collectservicethatletsyouorderouraward-winningmeat, festivefood,drinks,andgiftsfromyourhome.SimplyaddallyourChristmasfavourites toyouronlineshoppingbasketandchooseyourpreferredcollectiondateandtime.
Fromfieldtowheeldelve intoour Cheeseboard Box fortheultimate selectionofawardwinningBritishcheeses thisfestiveseason. Availableintwosizes.
Win anafternoonteafor2
Takethepressureoutof entertainingwithour freshlymade Grazing Boxes.Filledwithan abundanceoffresh produceandlovingly hand-preparedwehavea greatrangetochoose from.
MakeTheMostof
OurEarlyBirdOffer
Pre-orderyourChristmas meatonlineorin-store betweenthe1st-31stof Octoberandreceivea freebottleofwineon collection.
Validonallorders£20 andover.
Enjoyallthe traditionaltreats butwithafestive twistwithaglass ofProseccoanda potofEnglish BreakfastTea. Bookingmustbe made48hoursin advanceandthis speciallythemed AfternoonTearuns fromthe1st -23rd of December.
Hallo'Welly'Ween Hallo'Welly'Ween Spooktacular FamilyFun! Spooktacular FamilyFun!
26TH OCTOBER - 3RD NOVEMBER
26TH OCTOBER - 3RD NOVEMBER
ThisOctoberhalf-term, we’vegot somewickedlyawesome plans brewing!We’re throwingthe biggest and mostfriendly spook’tacular Hallo’Welly’Weenever, and you’reall invited. Don’t forgetduringthisevent you also haveaccesstoour normal play facilities,thereisso much todo! Faceyourfearsandvisit ourcreepycrawlies DailyShowsandStoryTelling PumpkinPatch
Makeandtakerecycledcrafts Halloweenthemedtrainride
FabulousSausageRolls FabulousSausageRolls
Didyouknow thatallofoursausagerollsare madeon-sitebyourkitchenatWellington FarmShopdaily?Theyaremadewithour award-winningsausagemeatcraftedbyour Butchery.
Ingredients Ingredients
1tbspoliveoil
15gunsaltedbutter 3largeonions,finelysliced 3clove/sgarlic,crushed 180gpouchcookedwholechestnuts, chopped
2x450gpacksofWellingtonFarmShoppork sausagemeat
½x20gpackofsage,leavesfinelyshredded Plainflour,fordusting 500gblockofpuffpastry 1egg,beaten
2tspNigellaseed(onionseed),forsprinkling (optional)
Method
1. Heattheoilandbutterinalargenonstick fryingpanandgentlycooktheonionswitha largepinchofsalt,stirring,untilsoftand caramelized(35-45minutes).Stirinthegarlic andchoppedchestnutsforthefinal2-3 minutes,thenscoopeverythingoutontoa plateandsetasidetocoolcompletely.
2. Putalargebakingtrayinthe ovenandpreheatto220°C,gas mark7.Putthesausagemeatand sageinalargebowl,thenaddthe cooledonionmixtureandmix wellwithyourhands.
3.Lightlyflourtheworksurface androlloutthepastrytoa30cmx 40cmrectangle.Liftontoasheet ofbakingparchment.Arrangethe sausagemeatlengthwaysina mounddownthecentre1⁄3ofthe pastry,leavingagapateitherend.
4. Makecutsalongtheremaining exposedpastryatrightanglesto thesausagemeat,alltheway downandspaced3cmapart. Crossthestripsalternately(onthe diagonal)overthefillingtocreate alattice.Tucktheendsaround thesausagemeattoencloseit (trimawayanyexcesspastry,if needed).
5. Carefullylifttheroll,stillonits paper,ontothepreheatedbaking tray.Brushwiththebeatenegg, scatterwithnigellaseeds(if using),thenbakefor45-55 minutesuntilcrisp,goldenand cookedthrough,withnopink meatremaining(oruntilameat thermometerpushedintothe centrereads75°C).Allowtostand foratleast15minutes.Servehot oratroomtemperaturewithchilli jamorchutney.
Salmonwith ToastedSeeds andProsecco BeurreBlanc Recipe
SERVES8 15MINUTESTOPREPARE 30MINUTESTOCOOK
Lookingforanamazingfishdish?Lookno furtherthanthisdecadentsideofsalmon recipe;witha toppingoftoastedalmonds, seeds,dill,andcapers,thisdishissureto impressyourguests.Itisfinishedwitha creamyProseccoBeurreBlancandis completelygluten-free.It’sreadyinunder anhour,soyouwon'thavetospendallday inthekitchen
INGREDIENTS
35gbutter,softened 50gflakedalmonds,crushed 25g4seedmix
40gParmesan,finelygrated 2lemons,zested,pluswedgesto serve
2tbspcapers,drainedandrinsed 30gfreshdill,finelychopped 1-1.2kgsideofsalmon
7bayleaves
1tbspoliveoil
4shallots,veryfinelychopped 300mlvegetablestock
200mlProseccoordrywhitewine 150mldoublecream
METHOD
1. Preheattheoventogas6,200°C,fan 180°C.Melt10gbutterinafryingpan overamedium-lowheat.Addthe almondsandseedsandfryfor5 minutes,stirring.StirintheParmesan andhalfthelemonzest;cookfor3-4 minutesuntilcrispy.Transfertoaplate tocool;mixwiththecapersandhalf thedill.Seasonwithpepper;setaside.
2. Linearoastingtraywithnon-stick bakingpaper.Putthesalmononit, skin-sidedown.Mixtheremaining 25gbutterandlemonzest;season. Ruboverthesalmon;lay6bayleaves alongthecentre.Roastfor20 minutes.
3. Meanwhile,heattheoilinafrying panoveralowheatandfrythe shallotsandgarlicfor3-4minutes. Increasetheheat,addthestockand remainingbayleaf;simmerfor5 minutes.AddtheProseccoand simmerfor3-4minutesuntilreduced byhalf,thenstirinthecream.Cookfor 2-3minutes,thenstirthroughthe remainingdill;season.
4. Transferthesalmontoaserving platterandsprinklewiththealmond mix.Servewiththesauce
OneMembership
FITNESS CLASSES
SMALL GROUP PERSONAL TRAINING
WELLBEING CLASSES
CRYOTHERAPY
INFRARED SAUNA
SetinarurallocationclosetotheHampshire-Berkshire border, WellesleyPrepSchoolprovidesarelevantandmeaningful educationin theheartofTheWellingtonEstate.
Joinusforanopenmorningoraprivatetourtoexperiencethedynamic learningenvironmentandmeetthechildren.Familiesarewelcome to comeandexploreallthatWellesleyPrepSchoolhastooffer.
Luxury Wreaths
Beautifully Made To Order By Our Florist
Allofourwreathsare handmade&freshlymadeto orderbyourfloristfrom BlossomandWild.Pickfrom variouscoloursandstyles, eachdesignisuniquewitha spectaculararrayofseasonal foliage,adornmentsand accessories.
CLICKTHE BUTTON BELOW TO PLACE YOUR ORDER AND OUR FLORIST WILL BE IN CONTACT.
MadeToOrder
CHRISTMAS HAMPERS
Lookingforagreatwaytosurprise someonespecialwithavarietyof delightfultreats?Ourhampersare overflowingwiththefinestartisan food,drinks,homeware,andgoodies. Ourluxurioushampersandgiftsetsare theperfectchoiceforanyoccasion.
Simplyclickthebuttonto access our hamper requestform.Amember ofourshopteamwillget intouchwithyouto createtheperfecthamper according to your preferences. Pleasenotethatallhampersrequirea minimumof48hours'advancenotice fororders.
Thursday6pm|£5perticket|Bookonline
Christmas Shopping Evening
Step into the festive spirit and be the first to sample all of our delicacies at our much-loved Christmas Evening.
Friday7pm|Bookonline
Christmas Wreath Workshop
Make your own luxury Christmas wreath with the creative guidance from our expert florist. Guests will also enjoy a delicious festive evening tea.
Celebratetheseasonswithus!Ourfinal supperclubof2024mayhavesoldoutbut ourpopularintimateeveningswillbeback for2025.SignuptoourVIPclubtohear firstaboutfuturedatesandmenureleases.
Arthur Wellesley,the first Duke of Wellington andone ofEngland's greatest military leaders
InterestingFacts
The Duke of Wellington
Born:1st May1769,Dublin,Ireland
Died:14th September1852,Kent, England
He isfamousfor hismajorrole in the Napoleonic wars.
HewasPrime Minstertwice serving as Prime Minister from22nd January 1828to 16th November 1830 andagainfrom17th Novemberto9th December1834.
Wellingtonbootsare named after him.
Didyouknow?
StratfieldSaye Househas been home to the Dukes of Wellingtonfornearly 200 years.
It wasbought in December1817forArthur Wellesley, 1st Dukeof Wellington,withthe money that hadbeen voted to him by Parliament, in gratitude and recognition of his outstandingserviceinthewaragainst Napoleon, culminatingin the decisive
victoryat Waterloo.
The young Arthur hadjoined thearmy in 1787,aged 17.
Atthattimehewas an awkward lad,with noobvious military potential His mother commentedonhischancesofsuccess,“he isfood forpowder and nothingmore” But Arthur had unexpected reserves of energy, determination and focus and he proceeded to dedicatehimself to military service for the next 28 years,first in India andtheninPortugal andSpain,becoming the most successful General oftheAge.
He was honouredwiththe title Dukeof Wellington in May 1814 Following the battle of Waterloo, he was appointed Commander-in-Chiefofthe Allied Army of Occupation and so lived in Paris for the nextthree years The Duke’s former secretary, now an architect, Benjamin Dean Wyatt was instructed to look for a suitable country estate in England.
Atleastten otherHouseswereconsidered, such as Bramshill Houseand Uppark, before Wyatt drew Stratfield Saye tothe Duke’s attention, writing, “I feelno hesitation in saying, thatthe estate
StratfieldSayeHouse
TheheartoftheWellingtonEstate
possesses great beauty and dignity and is capable ofbeing madea princelyplace”.
The Dukeof Wellington approved the estate on hisfirstvisit in September 1817. He liked the park,with the River Loddon flowing through it, the woods andits relatively easy access to London and Windsor He planted a Cedar across the river from thehouse,which has now grown intoa magnificent tree.
StratfieldSaye Househad originally been built in the 1630s,on the siteof aneven older house, when Sir WilliamPitt, Comptroller of the Householdto James I, had acquired theestate from the Dabridgecourt family.Sir William’s great grandson George Pitt, 1st Baron Rivers,who alsobuiltthe present church, made many improvements to thehouseandpark, planting trees anddredging the River Loddontocreate aBroadwatertolooklike a lake in front ofthehouse.It was hisson, the2nd LordRiverswhosold thehouseand estate to the 1st Dukeof Wellington. Wyatt had envisageddemolishing the existing house andbuilding a splendid newducal Palace,as a moresuitable settingforaHero.Magnificentplanswere
drawnup,butWellingtonsoondecided againstbuildinganewhouse.Hewas pleasedenoughwiththeexistingone andmoreimportantly,sowerehiswife andchildren.
In1845QueenVictoriaindicatedthatshe wouldliketocomeandstay.TheDuke waswellawarethatwhilsthishousewas acomfortableresidenceforhimself,his familyandfriends,entertainingthe SovereignandHerCourtwasavery differentmatter.Thevisitpassedvery successfully,withtheQueenandPrince Albertverypleasedwiththeirstay.The Queenrecordedinherjournal,“Stratfield Sayeisalowandnotverylargehouse,but warmandcomfortable.”
TheDukediedatWalmerCastlein September1852andisburiedinthecrypt ofStPaul’scathedral.Butalltheseyears later,nowhereholdsastronger impressionofWellingtontheman,than StratfieldSaye.
Now,over200yearslater,StratfieldSaye Houseisstilltheprivatehomeofthe9th DukeofWellington.Itonlyopensa handfulofdaysayear,wherethepublic areallowedtovisit.
It was one of the best light shows we've been too. A fantastic, magical evening!
Prepare to be captivated by the magic of Wellington Illuminova as you step into a world where imagination knows no bounds.
This winter, embark on a journey through the illuminated paths of Wellington Country Park. Let the enchanting lights spark your creativity and transport you to a realm where dreams come to life.
Experience the illuminated night trail that never grows old. Limited slots offer a truly bespoke experience.
One lucky person will win a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children to our winter light trail running on selected dates from Friday 22nd November until Monday 23rd December.
The competition closes on 31st October 2024 at midnight, with the winner chosen at random from all entries.
Please check our website for full competition and admission terms and conditions
A year of celebration at...
WellingtonRiding hasbeen opensince 1974,making ita yearto celebratethe clients,colleagues andteam members who make it such a special place to ride. Plans started late last year with a memo from the GeneralManager abouta celebratoryweekend party... and the rest was history... 50 years of history to be precise!
Ouranniversarycelebrationdayplanningcommencedtofeaturehorses,people, reflectionsandfun,includingawelcomereception,liveband,a100horseparade, dressagetomusicdisplayandeveningparty.
The100horseparadewasaspecialmomentforallwhoattended,with10groups includingtheWellingtonRiding,PonyandSaddleClubs,RidingfortheDisabled, HighfieldFarmLiveries,HongKongJockeyClub,WellingtonRidingLiveriesand SchoolHorsesalongsidemembersfromourEducationDaysplustheThamesValley Police.Itwasfantastictoseesomanymembersofourcurrentclients,horsesand poniestaketoouroutdoorinternationalarena.
Wealsodidn’tforgetaboutabouttheupcominggenerationandlittleoneswho attended,withourIndoorSchoolArenaturningintoachildren’szonewithabouncy castle,circusperformer,ponyridesandafeatureonChatterHappyPonies,thetv programme,whichwasoriginallyfilmedatWellingtonRiding.
Wecouldn’tforgetaboutsomestandoutkeypeoplewho havecontributedtoWellingtonRidingoverthepast50 years,with10awardsgivenout,presentedbyLord Mornington.Afuntimewashadbyeveryonethatattended, andwearesuremanyattendeeswillhelpandbepartofthe next50yearsatWellingtonRiding.
Bringiton!
MANDY CHAFFIN
WeinterviewedMandyrecentlytocatchup withherafterallthetalkofour50ththis year!
Howhaveyouenjoyedthe50th celebrations?
It’sbeenbrilliant.Ihavehadagreattime catchingupwitholdclientsandcolleagues.The beautyofsocialmediathesedaysisthatyou canstillkeepintouchwithpeople,butit’svery muchthroughascreen.Itwasamazingto catchupinpersonandseesomanypeople attendthe50theventearlierthisyear.
Whathavebeenyourstandout momentsfromour50thcelebrations?
IhavetomentionmyChiefInstructoraward here,thatwasgreat.However,itwasalso amazingtobeinvolvedinsomanydifferent aspectsofthe50thevent.Wehadclientlessons all50themed–withfiftythriftyjumps,fiftynifty polesandfiftyshiftytransitionslessonsoverthe weekend.Wehadspecialjumpcoursessetup byourfantasticteamofcoaches. READMORE->
“I wasn’t ever expecting to end up in the equestrian world”
Wealsohadponyridesrunning…plusthesmalltask oforganisinga100horseparade!Itwasarealteam effortandIamthrilledtohavebeenpartofit.The wholedaywaslovelyandtheweatherdefinitely helpedasitwasabeautifulday.
“So manyelementscame together, from people to horses, to makesure that everyone hada great day of celebrations”
HowdidyoufeelwinningtheChief Instructoraward?
Well…itwasquiteasurprise.David,theGeneral Manager,hadkeptitverymuchasecretandsoIhad noidea.Wehadbeendeliberatingaboutthisaward andhehadneversaidmyname!
Iwassortingoutsomethingonmyphoneatthetime whentheChiefInstructorawardwasabouttobe calledout.Iwasn’tawareuntilsomeonenudgedme andsaid…thisisyou.IheardthefactDavidhadsaid ‘she’sturned50thherself’andthenrealiseditwas me.Inearlymissedit!
Howdidyouoriginallygetintohorseriding?
IwasborninCyprusintheRAFactuaryin1974.Sadly thewarthenbrokeoutandourfamilywas transferredtoLeightonBuzzardintheUK.Imovedto SomersetwithmymumwhenIwaseightyearsold. MymumwasatravelagentandsoIgotpackedaway onactivityholidaysandcamps.Iwasalwaysreally activeandthenononeholiday…Iwasabletoridea horse!Atthetime,Ididn’treallylikehorsesandit wasn’tpassionateorsomethingIneverthoughtI’d doasacareer.However,thevillageIgrewupin withinSomersetonlyhadtwooptions,eitherhanging aroundtheplayparkorhelpingwithhorses.Mybest friendsatthetimewereallhorsey,soIstartedtogo totheyardwiththem.
AttheyardIwasworkingat,therewasaponywho hadanearlyseveredfoot.Istartedtobrushand groomher,occupyingherwhilstmyfriendswent riding.Theyardownerthenpushedmetolearnto ridesothatIcouldridetheponyonceshewasfit again…
Whateducationandcourseshaveyou completed?
Theownersattheyardgaveuptheirleaseanda dealertookover,whowasgreatandverypassionate. ThenewownerrealisedIwasboldandbraveand wantedtogoforit…Ibecamehisriderandlovedevery
moment.Ileftthedealers’yardfora seasontogotoaracingyardto experiencesomeotherthings,like fitteningwork,butIkeptgettingdrawn backtothedealers'yard.Istayedthere untilIwas16andthendecidedto completemyBHSexams.Someoneat theyardtoldmethattheonlyplaceI shouldstudywasWellingtonRidingin Hampshire.Anotherpersontoldmeto gotoadifferentdealersyardthatwasat aplacecalledWellingtoninHampshire.
“I had to make the decision, W ellington or W ellington?”
Lookingback,IthinkImadetheright decisionandwassenttoNorth Hampshireforthestartofmyjourneyat WellingtonRidingasaWorkingPupilin 1990.Myfocuswasthentogodownthe BHSroute.BeforeIcamehere,Ididn’t evenreallyknowwhatdiagonalswere,I justrodethehorsesanddidn’thavethe technicalframework.
HowdidyouprogresstoChief Instructor?
Aftermyfirstyear,Istartedtoearnmy accommodationandeventuallypocket moneybyhelpingoutwithcoaching heretoo.Icontinuedcoachingand teachingfor6yearsbeforefalling pregnantwithmyson,Dylan,who eventuallyendedupworkinghereas well!OnceIhadenjoyedsometimewith Dylan,Icamebackanddidbitsof teachingbutalsoendedupworkingin theoffice.TheoldHeadSecretarywas leavingandbasicallytoldmeIshoulddo herjob!Withthesupportoftheoffice teamatthetime,Iwasdelightedtotake onthisnewroleinApril1996and workedintheofficefor5years.Iusedto runtheHolidaysalongsidethegeneral adminwithlessonsandliveries.Thiswas backintheportacabindays…the ReceptionatWellingtonRidingisvery differentnow!Icontinuedworkingand felthonouredtobepartofthevisionto gettowherewearetoday.Ibecame ChiefInstructorwhenDavid,thecurrent GeneralManager,tookonhisrolein 2016andhave’ntlookedbacksince.
What’syournormaldayas aChiefInstructor?
IIstartteachingfrom8amandI amusuallyfoundcatchingup ondiaries,tasksandprojects beforethat!Isupportwithany vetvisitsthathappenon-siteto ensureallofourhorsesare healthyandoverseeHighfield Farmliveries,wherewehave22 horsesstabled.Iregularlycheck inwiththeyardhead,Susie, eachdayandfitincoachingat bothHighfieldandWellington Riding…andallofthat’swithout anymeetingsoreventsthatI aminvolvedin!It’sabusybut veryenjoyablerole.
Doyouevervisitanyofthe otherEstatebusinesses?
Yes,it’sgreatbeingpartofthe Estateandhavingsomany optionsonthedoorstep…Ioften gototheFarmShopandone eventwelovethereisthe ChristmasEveningwhichwetry togetsomeofourclientsto attend.It’snicetocatchup awayfromhorsesandwork sometimes!Wecan’twaitfor thisyearsandthedatesalready inourdiaries.
Wehearthatyouhave recentlyreachedNational Dressage, a huge congratulationsandplease tellusmore!
Ilikethedisciplineofdressage andI’vegotagreathorsetoride atthemoment,Daimler,whoI currentlycompetewith.I’ve trainedhimuptoPrixSt George.He’sonly10andsoisat therightlevelforhisage.We competedintheregionalsin Februaryandqualifiedforthe nationalsthroughawildcardin September2024whichIthink wearebothlookingforwardto!
ToOurWonderful Volunteers
It wouldn’t be possible to run Wellington International Horse Trials or our events at Wellington Riding throughout the year without the help from our superb volunteers. your support is greatly appreciated.
Wellington Riding holds a calendar full of shows and events from unaffiliated to international level championships across all disciplines throughout the year
Volunteer roles include: score sheet runners, show jumping arena party, music operators, car parking attendants, scorers, and office assistants We also cannot run without our dressage writers, stewards and commentators, although these roles require training which we can happily provide you with Interestedin Volunteering?
Located on the historic Wellington Estate in the village of Stratfield Turgis, The Wellington Arms is a beautifully refurbished dog-friendly pub and hotel. The relaxed bar and inviting pub are home to a spectacular alfresco dining terrace and private dining rooms whilst offering a country escape with 25 boutique bedrooms.
For dogs who love to run free
“Oscar really gets the 5* treatment at Bruce’s! He gets so excited on Bruce’s days, waiting for his bus driver to arrive. It gives me real peace of mind knowing he’s so well looked after and having a blast with his friends while i’m at work. And I get 20% off as a Wellington Country Park Member! They’re hands down the best doggy day care around. I’m proud he’s a Bruce’s dog!“
- Oscar’s Pet Parent
at Wellington Country Park Award Winning Doggy Day Care
WIN a month of free award winning doggy day care!*
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