Rub shoulders with equestrian royalty in Kentucky

Head to Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky this April for two of the biggest weekends the state has to offer, the Kentucky Derby and Rolex Kentucky.

Rolex Kentucky, the ultimate test of horse and rider, takes place 28th April to 1st May. This three-day event tests the relationship and finesse between horse and rider in three disciplines: dressage; cross-country and jumping. Every year, over 80,000 spectators converge at the stunning Kentucky Horse Park, recently updated with a 6,000-seat climate controlled indoor arena and an impressive 7,500-seat outdoor stadium.

Taking place May 7th at the Churchill Downs Racetrack is the infamous Kentucky Derby where you can enjoy rubbing shoulders with horse-lovers Leonardo Dicaprio, Paris Hilton and others on "Millionaires Row", aptly named due to the many celebrity guests that flock to the Derby each year. As well as taking part in the festivities, the Derby also boasts an impressive list of celebrity horse-owners including famed movie director Steven Speilberg.

Derby goers can enjoy placing bets whilst sipping on a traditional "Mint Julep" cocktails - the official drink of the Kentucky Derby.

For information on Kentucky visit: kentuckytourism.co.uk