Queen Camilla breaks tradition as she swaps dresses for trousers at Badminton Horse Trials

King Charles and Queen Camilla were in the US on a state visit

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GB NEWS

Dorothy Reddin

By Dorothy Reddin


Published: 08/05/2026

- 11:52

The Queen last attended the event in 2024 wearing a blue dress

Queen Camilla attended the Badminton Horse Trials in a trouser suit, marking a huge break in tradition.

Her Majesty, who serves as both President of the Ebony Horse Club and Patron of the British Equestrian Federation, was greeted upon arrival by Jane Tuckwell, Event Director of MARS Badminton Horse Trials, who introduced the Duke and Duchess of Beaufort.


Camilla, who almost always wears dresses, paired her black trouser suit with a navy blue Chanel vanity bag that features a quilted pattern and top handle.

Young members of the Ebony Horse Club showcased their equestrian abilities in a brief demonstration.

\u200bQueen Camilla

Queen Camilla has broken tradition by swapping her usual dresses for trousers at the Badminton Horse Trials

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PA

The Brixton-based organisation was chosen as the prestigious event's official charity for this year's competition.

Following the riding display, Camilla met with competitors, former champions and British Equestrian Federation representatives at a reception.

Her appearance comes after her niece, Zara Tindall, was photographed on Thursday during the Dressage at the Badminton Horse Trials.

The Ebony Horse Club marks three decades of operation this year, having worked to transform the lives of young people since its founding in 1996.

Queen Camilla

Queen Camilla carried a navy Chanel handbag for the occasion

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PA

Based at an equestrian centre in Brixton, the charity provides riding instruction and stable management training to disadvantaged youngsters from the local community.

The organisation focuses on enhancing both the emotional and physical wellbeing of participants whilst establishing routes into higher education, apprenticeships and equestrian careers.

Her Majesty has held the position of President since 2009, during which time she has made numerous visits to the Brixton facility and engaged with young riders on multiple occasions.

The Queen's longstanding connection with the charity has included hosting a reception for supporters at Clarence House and officially opening the Ebony Community Riding Centre in 2011.

Queen Camilla

Queen Camilla pictured during a medal presentation on day two of the Badminton Horse Trials

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PA

Queen Camilla

The charity provides riding instruction and stable management training to disadvantaged youngsters from the local community

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PA

Earlier this year in February, Her Majesty encountered Hezekiah, a 19-year-old jockey who developed his skills through the Brixton programme, at Plumpton Racecourse where he achieved second place in his inaugural professional race.

The Queen's most recent appearance at Badminton was in 2024, when she presented the trophy during the competition's 75th anniversary celebrations.

Camilla was photographed speaking to her nephew, Peter Phillips, his daughters Savannah and Isla, and his girlfriend, Harriet Sperling. The couple are due to marry next month.

MARS Badminton Horse Trials holds five-star status, the sport's highest competitive tier, and ranks among only seven such events globally.