Access All Areas Spencer Wilton

After relocating to a stunning new base in Gloucestershire, Spencer Wilton is as ambitious as ever and gearing up for a big year in 2021, finds Polly Bryan

- Polly Bryan

IN a year full of chaos and confusion, arriving at Spencer Wilton’s new base, the swanky Cotswold Club Equestrian, feels like stepping into an idyllic bubble of peace and ponies. It’s only been a few months since Olympic silver medallist Spencer relocated here from Berkshire with husband and fellow dressage rider Darren Hicks, but I can see exactly why they already feel at home. This is no ordinary yard after all; it is a luxury equestrian centre founded by Charlotte Dunkerton, whose vision was to combine five-star equine facilities with the atmosphere of a high-end social club.

We’re in between lockdowns, and Spencer, Darren and I are sitting in the riders’ lounge – at a two-metre distance of course – sinking into deep leather armchairs, enjoying coffee and freshly baked banana muffins next to a roaring wood burner, and admiring the mahogany bar and twinkling chandeliers above our heads.

“It’s quite special, isn’t it,” remarks Spencer, 48, who has his dogs Percy and Pippin curled contentedly on his lap. “Charlotte had an amazing vision for this place and she’s followed through with it.”

The equestrian facilities are just as impressive as the riders’. Spencer’s five horses, spearheaded by his top ride Super Nova II, are living it large in a beautiful indoor barn, complete with solarium, fresh flowers and dreamy exposed brick – and even Shetland pony Tiny Tim is swanning around in a huge, airy loosebox of his own.

Meanwhile, Darren’s string of 10 are round the corner in a charming traditional courtyard, with its own smart tack room and romantic archway. In between lies the stunning glass-walled 50x80m indoor arena and shrubframed 20x60m outdoor arena, with an all-weather canter track and seven furlongs of gallops also on offer.