Horse riding
Many would argue that the most natural way to enjoy the countryside is on horseback. Certainly, it is how many of our ancestors and famous novelists and poets came to experience the diversity of English landscapes.
Riding in England is a long-established tradition and over the years has developed into a variety of exciting forms. You can enjoy anything from formal riding instruction to trail riding, cross-country or the more leisurely pursuit of trekking.
The length of a course can be arranged to suit; maybe you require a week's instruction with residential accommodation or perhaps you simply wish to ride for an hour or spend the afternoon trekking in the hills. Whether you are a complete beginner or experienced in the saddle, you will find there is something just for you.
Looking for a weekend getaway? Enjoy spectacular panoramic views from the Pennine Bridleway National Trail or the delightful rolling farmland of the South Downs Way.
England’s Northwest
The Lake District draws visitors from far and wide with its impressive mountains, fells and lakes, a landscape, which has inspired many literary greats, such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.
To really experience the best of what this region has to offer, you really need to get out and about. There can surely be no finer way of doing this than on horseback, and there are a collection of accommodation providers and other interested parties who have worked together to provide a comprehensive service for anyone wishing to take a horse-back holiday, be it for an afternoon's riding or a week-long trek. Horse Holidays in Cumbria (www.horseholidaysincumbria.co.uk/) allow you to hire a horse, and help with planning route guides, escorted rides, baggage transfer for those who wish to go from one farm centre to the next, and accommodation.
South West
One of the best ways to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the South West countryside is on horseback. The terrain is varied and endlessly fascinating and you can choose an area that suits your idea of perfect horse riding – from the rolling grassland plains of Dorset and Wiltshire, the quiet Devon lanes and bridleways and the wilds of Dartmoor, to the wooded combes, meandering river valleys and spectacular open moorland of Exmoor National Park.
Situated in idyllic rural locations - often near sparkling rivers, sandy beaches or tranquil forests and set in rolling, emerald countryside - many equestrian establishments offer friendly and welcoming B&B accommodation and well-cared for, well-schooled horses to ride. If you're just looking to go riding for an hour or two, once or twice during your holiday - you won't have to look far to find a suitable riding school or trekking centre. Some establishments also offer an introduction to grooming and stable care, so you can discover what its like to handle and bond with a horse on the ground. More dedicated horse riders will find themselves spoilt for choice when looking for accommodation providers with stables, perfectly located in ideal riding country. Some of them offer escorted rides or will take you further afield for a bracing ride on the beach, a visit to a cross country course or competition centre - or even a trip to enjoy the thrills and spills of horse racing.
Horse Riding Experiences from £75
Get into the saddle to explore some beautiful English countryside. If you've never ridden a horse, it's the perfect way to learn about this fascinating activity.
Buy Horse Riding Experiences now