A newly refreshed cross country course set in long-established parkland
About us
Brent Pelham Cross Country Limited is a trading subsidiary of Major Barclays Farms, a working family arable farm since 1865. Set in 40 acres of parkland and woodland, the site has seen many decades of equine activity, from cross country events to Pony Club rallies.
Since its recent redesign, the course is now available throughout the year for riders and horses of all abilities to enjoy. Our Cross Country Course is available for schooling hire throughout the eventing season (approx. April - September, weather dependent). Whether you’re preparing for a competition or just want to have fun with friends, our course incorporates everything from mini fences through to BE Novice, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
We provide professional year-round maintenance to ensure safety for both horse and rider. Individuals, groups, instructors and clinics all welcome. We encourage trainers to use the the course as a training ground where they can offer clinics.
Our history
It is believed that the park has never been ploughed which accounts for the good turf and generally good going. It has seen many contrasting activities over the years. There is much evidence of Roman activity, the entry gate leads off the Roman road from Braughing to Great Chesterford and on. It has witnessed a visit by Queen Elizabeth 1st. The visit was brief, only one day. This was a sign that she liked her hosts (if she disliked them she would stay for a week and bankrupt them!)
The park was for many years used to graze mouflon, a kind of exotic sheep found in Cyprus and elsewhere. Some remains of the required deer fencing still remain. The Ministry of Agriculture did not know whether to classify Mouflon as sheep or deer or goats so put them on the "too difficult" list. The mouflon thus remained off the ration list for two world wars. We are grateful for this omission. The last was eaten in 1948!
Over the years, the park has been used for many cross country events and pony club rallies, including the Gosling cup. It has also played host to a wide variety of entertainments, horse shows, country fairs and wedding receptions. It is hoped that it will continue to provide fun and education to horses and humans for many years yet.