In pictures: Soaring, galloping and prancing – Victorian horses return to Audley End

Beautiful animals and elegant outfits, it could only be the return of the Victorian Horses of Audley End annual event.

Taking place at the English Heritage site near Saffron Walden last Sunday and Monday (August 28-29), crowds – which numbered in their thousands – watched the horses soar, gallop and prance through the house’s beautiful grounds.

The displays highlighted, among other things, the art of riding side saddle and Victorian cavalry skills, and also saw riders take part in the Gymkhana Games. Kirstie Horne, property manager at Audley End, English Heritage, said: “We enjoyed another fantastic spectacle over the bank holiday weekend with the Victorian Horses of Audley End.

“It was wonderful to see so many visitors coming to enjoy the event and once again our expert and dedicated stables team put on a fabulous show, which was enjoyed within the beautiful grounds of the mansion and in the glorious sunshine we had over the weekend.”

[Read more: Interview: James Blunt to perform at Audley End House & Gardens]

For more information on Audley End, visit english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/audley-end-house-and-gardens/.