Access All Areas Spencer Wilton

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 woodburner, 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.”