Northern Saddlery Convention 2026 to bring major equine CPD event to the North
A new continuing professional development event for the UK saddlery sector will launch next autumn, with the Northern Region Members of the Society of Master Saddlers confirming the Northern Saddlery Convention 2026.
Taking place on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 October in Durham, the two-day convention is designed to strengthen professional standards, encourage collaboration and advance saddle fitting practice. Organisers say the event will provide a high-quality educational gathering for the North of England, attracting experts, manufacturers and industry professionals from across the UK and overseas.
Open to all equine professionals, the convention will welcome saddle fitters, saddlers, vets, physiotherapists, musculoskeletal practitioners, coaches, trainers, manufacturers, retailers and riders focused on equine welfare.
Programme highlights
- Day one at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Durham, with seminar sessions, refreshments and an evening ‘Northern Shindig’, including a three-course dinner.
- Day two at EDC Equine Centre, Houghall, featuring live saddle fitting demonstrations, adjustment workshops and collaborative learning sessions.
- 12 hours of recognised CPD across the two days.
- Exhibitor showcase for manufacturers and suppliers.
- Saddle Swap Shop for buying, selling and exchanging stock.
The initiative has been structured on a cost-neutral basis, with any surplus reinvested into future CPD opportunities. Sponsorship packages from £100 are due to be released shortly.
Trade and Allied Trade members of the Society of Master Saddlers are being offered complimentary exhibition space, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Early bird delegate tickets are priced at £230 + VAT plus booking fees.