Jemima Kirkwood
04 August 2020
Humans and horses have had a strong bond throughout history. Horses have stood by us whilst building our towns, farming our fields, transporting our goods and they have even been there through the toughest of times like war and hardship. Today, horses are still deemed beautiful creatures which many hold in high esteem and bond close friendships with.
The Lake District, with its dramatic mountain scenery, remote valleys, clearwater rivers, lakes and forest trails, is known as the ‘adventure capital’ of the UK. Whilst exploring on foot, by car or on a bicycle can bring much enjoyment and adventure, there is nothing better than getting a fresh perspective on an area from sitting high up on a horse. For many, adventure is finding something that gets all those feel-good endorphins going and we can promise that a good old canter or hack up a hill on horseback will do just that!
From high up on a horse, you can see everything differently whilst enjoying the freshest of air, the sound of their hooves plodding along paths, and the movement and breath of their bodies as they take you on their next adventure. Being able to ride horseback can be extremely therapeutic and a lovely way to relax. If you have not tried this before, the Lake District would be a lovely place to experience it for the first time, getting you out into nature and surrounding yourself in glorious landscape.
Organised horse trekking in the Lake District
Horse riding in the Lakes is an activity that can offer something for everyone, from beginners to experienced riders. For the more horse-savvy rider, the terrain offered up in the Lake District is like no other with the opportunities for exhilarating beach canters or a hilly climb up one of the friendly fells. Guided tours and treks are a wonderful way to try out some horse riding during your holidays. As a family, horse trekking can be a great activity to get everyone exploring and having fun together amongst amazing countryside and beautiful views. It is a peaceful way of soaking up any area as you sit back and relax on your trusty steed as she does all the work.
There are 1,927.5 miles of Public Rights of Way across the Lake District; whilst not all give permission to access by horse, most of them do. Cumbria has the highest total of bridleways in the UK and there are lots of schools and liveries throughout that can guide you along the most beautiful ones. You can experience it all whilst staying in our Lake District holiday cottages.
Here are some of the best companies to take on your next horsey adventure…
Located nearby Windermere in the Lake District, Lakeland Pony Treks has a selection of rides that suit all abilities whether you are beginners or experienced riders. It is a family-run riding centre which focuses on giving lovely experiences to create memories that will last forever. One of the highlights is an interesting trek through the historic village of Troutbeck and the surrounding valley. Being a local company, you can be guaranteed stories and local knowledge which makes any ride more interesting.
- Location: LA23 1PA
- Stay close by: Woodland Retreat. Stay in this woodland log cabin and enjoy a secluded setting to return to after days out exploring. Remember to soak your worked muscles in the cottage hot tub! Sleeps 6. 2 dogs welcome.
- View all prices and riding school opening times on their website.
This is a great adventure venue in Cumbria which offers a variety of outdoor activities along with horse riding. Here you will find around 35 horses and ponies which range in size and cater for all abilities, ages and stages. This is an advanced pony school which really knows its stuff and can arrange treks, lessons, lead walks and even dressage lessons in the indoor school if that’s how you would like to spend your time!
- Location: CA11 0SS
- Stay close by: Thirlmere 16. This is a quirky log cabin situated near the shores of Lake Windermere, set within a holiday park with a chilled and relaxed vibe. It is modern and well equipped and has a hot tub to soak the muscles in after a good old pony trek.
- View all prices and riding school opening times on their website.
For a different kind of horse riding, you must check out this amazing riding school which is the only UK establishment specialising in Clydesdale, Shire and Ardennes which are known as ‘heavy horses.’ Due to their size and nature, they are known to be gentle giants and you will never forget cantering along a beach on one of these heroic creatures. Again, this is a family-run business which loves horses and loves providing memorable experiences for its visitors. It offers everything from horse riding holidays and fell rides to beach rides and gentle hacks.
- Location: LA18 5LY
- Stay close by: Carter Ground Barn. This is a beautiful holiday house set in the South Lakes with amazing views in all directions. Again, there is a hot tub for relaxing in after days spent on horseback and cosy wood burners to snuggle up beside in the evenings. Sleeping 8, this is the perfect family retreat.
- View all prices and riding school opening times on their website.
This excellent riding school specialises in beach rides and they sure know how to show you a good time. Welcoming all abilities from the age of 4 upwards, it is a wonderful school which is keen to share all there is to know about beach riding, and horse care and maintenance. Located in the picturesque village of Silecroft, it is a family-run business set only 1 mile from the beach. There are 7 miles of sandy beach to play on and more experienced riders can also go into the fells.
- Location: LA18 5LP
- Stay close by: Scafell Lodge. This is a cosy little lodge sleeping two which would make for the perfect romantic retreat. Make it a mini break to remember with some horse riding on the beach. 2 dogs welcome.
- View all prices and riding school opening times on their website.
All of these equestrian centres offer a welcoming and friendly environment for you all to enjoy some horse riding together. Whether there is one member of your family who wants to horse ride, or a whole group of friends, or you might be wanting to try it as a couple – these schools can cater to individual group needs and levels.
Having a riding school nearby your accommodation can be a great factor if you are a group with mixed interest, but also for those who are looking to try something new. The horses are trained to be with people and the feel-good factor you get when riding one is wonderful.
Stay in a self-catering holiday cottage in the Lake District
If we have inspired you to come horse riding in the Lake District then why not check out our wonderful collection of self-catering holiday homes which can provide a great base for those who want to get out and explore an area in depth? Equally, if you simply want to find somewhere to chill throughout the day there are lots that boast lovely gardens, views and hot tubs! From luxury holiday cottages to family-friendly holiday homes, there will be something to suit you. We even have a great dog-friendly collection so the four-legged friend can come too!
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.