Best Horseback Riding Holidays in the UK for Summer 2025
Did you know that the United Kingdom is one of the best places in the world for equestrian holidays UK, featuring miles of rolling, green countryside and scenic bridleways?
Whether you want to ride along Cornwall’s beaches or go on a 15-day trip through Scotland’s beautiful countryside, horse riding holidays in the UK have something for everyone.
Weekend trips start from just £350, so even beginners can enjoy a fun and affordable riding break. Many places also include at least one riding lesson each week, helping you learn and improve while having a great time.
From a 100-mile trail in Northern Ireland to luxury rides at Gleneagles Hotel, there’s a wide range of horse riding holidays to choose from.
You can enjoy scenic rides in Exmoor or pick teen-friendly options with fun activities like horseball and western riding.
Ready for a summer adventure in 2025? Let’s explore the best horse riding holidays in the UK!
How to Plan a Horse Riding Holiday in the UK
Planning a horse riding holiday in the UK requires proper preparation to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience. From choosing the right season to understanding insurance requirements, here’s what you need to know for your equestrian adventure.
Best time to go riding in the UK
For the best weather, plan your horse riding holiday in the UK between April and October. Autumn is especially great with cooler days and fewer crowds. Trails are quieter, making rides more peaceful. Just remember to pack a raincoat – UK weather can change quickly
What to pack for a summer riding break
For your summer riding breaks, essential items include:
- A riding hat meeting current safety standards (preferably bring your own)
- Short riding boots with grips and half chaps rather than long leather boots Cotton riding trousers or comfortable riding tights (2-3 pairs should suffice)
- Long-sleeved cotton shirts for sun and brush protection
- Layered clothing for changeable weather
- Riding gloves, sunglasses with strap, and a bandana/buff
Remember that comfort is paramount when spending hours in the saddle on British equestrian holidays.
Choosing the right level of experience
Be honest about your riding ability when booking—it’s better to underplay rather than overplay your experience. Most UK riding holidays categorise riders into four levels: beginner, intermediate, strong intermediate, and advanced.
If you’ve never ridden before, consider taking a few lessons before your holiday. Alternatively, choose horse riding weekends for beginners that combine some time in the saddle with other activities to avoid overworking unfamiliar muscles.
Safety and insurance considerations
Standard holiday insurance typically doesn’t cover equestrian activities, so obtain specific horse riding insurance. Your policy should cover medical expenses, personal liability, and emergency assistance.
Furthermore, horse riding holidays book up quickly, especially for summer periods, so plan well ahead to avoid disappointment. Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow the guidelines provided by your hosts to ensure a safe and memorable countryside escape.
Types of Horse Riding Holidays to Consider
Trail riding and countryside escapes
The Welsh borders offer perfect terrain for trail riding, with stunning views of the rural Celtic countryside. The Jack Mytton Way in Shropshire gives riders scenic routes through unspoilt landscapes.
Dartmoor is one of the UK’s last wild places, best explored on horseback across its high, ancient land. Freerein also lets you ride lively ponies through Welsh hills, quiet lanes, green tracks and open fields ideal for cantering.
Beach horse riding holidays UK
Beach horse riding in the UK is a memorable experience. North Devon and Cornwall offer beautiful coastal paths and beaches near trusted riding centres.
Experienced riders can enjoy the Clydesdale Beach Ride—two hours on powerful horses through sand and sea. Studland Bay also features three miles of beach with stunning views of Old Harry Rocks and Poole Bay.
Horse riding weekends for beginners
Novice riders can build confidence through dedicated short breaks. Learn to Ride trails from Free-rein help beginners feel at home in the saddle, with practical instruction occurring in the hills rather than arenas.
These holidays typically feature patient, understanding horses and relaxed, friendly guidance. By the end, many participants significantly increase their confidence with all the basics.
Pony trekking holidays for families
Family-friendly destinations accommodate riders of all ages and abilities. Dunton Stables offers 2-night riding weekends and 4-night pony trekking holidays with twin en-suite accommodation located above the stables.
Some centres welcome children of all ages—the youngest on lead rein or in arenas—while others have minimum age requirements for trail rides.
Notably, children particularly enjoy spending time around stables making new friends, often finding this more exciting than even the most stunning scenery.
Top 5 Horseback Riding Holidays in the UK for Summer 2025
For summer 2025, the UK’s finest equestrian centres are ready to welcome riders of all abilities. From Welsh hillsides to Scottish Highlands, these five destinations offer exceptional horseback adventures with distinct character and charm.
1. Springhill Farm, Wales
Nestled on the picturesque border between Wales and England, this BHS-approved equestrian centre provides immediate access to diverse off-road riding adventures.
Just 7 miles from both Oswestry and Llangollen, Springhill Farm overlooks the stunning Ceiriog Valley.
Riders particularly praise the well-behaved, properly matched horses and varied terrain with “amazing views and great canter opportunities.” The farm offers self-catering accommodation with all facilities needed for a comfortable stay.
Previous visitors consistently rate their experiences as “fabulous” and “fantastic,” noting that staff are “knowledgeable and friendly” with rides “tailored to your abilities.”
2. Exmoor Horse Riding Holidays
Exmoor National Park delivers invigorating three-day riding experiences across spectacular terrain.
Each day features approximately 10-12 miles of riding through varied landscapes—from steep woodland climbs to rushing rivers and open moorland.
Their quality horses are “fit and forward going,” ideal for intermediate and experienced riders.
A typical package includes morning rides with breath-taking views towards the South Wales coastline, balanced with afternoon activities like bird-of-prey experiences or gentle horsemanship workshops, all culminating with cream teas beside a log-burning fire.
3. Freerein Riding Adventures
Located in Wales, Freerein stands out by offering both guided and self-guided trail riding opportunities. Their “fit and friendly forward going horses” take riders through some of Wales’ most beautiful yet varied scenery.
The experience includes traversing country lanes free of traffic, old green roads, hill tracks and open spaces perfect for cantering.
Afterward, welcoming Welsh country inns provide en-suite rooms and excellent cuisine, creating an ideal environment for post-riding relaxation with “great cider and ale.”
4. The Old Vicarage, Cornwall
This beautifully restored former stable in Pendeen, Cornwall sits just 1.5 miles from the coast in a designated national landscape. The accommodation sleeps four guests comfortably within a property featuring exposed stone walls, apex-style ceilings and a peaceful patio.
Located only 10 miles from picturesque St Ives with its golden beaches, the property offers easy access to the South West Coast Path and ancient sites like Men-an-Tol and Lanyon Quoit.
After days exploring Cornwall’s equestrian trails, return to this stylish hideaway with its jacuzzi-style bath perfect for soothing saddle-weary muscles.
5. Highlands Unbridled, Scotland
For those seeking true adventure, Highlands Unbridled offers extraordinary trail rides through Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes. Their signature experience is the North Route Coast to Coast ride—seven days riding with six nights accommodation—taking adventurous equestrians across the breath taking Scottish Highlands.
Riders traverse stunning terrain where “rugged mountains, misty lochs and ancient trails” create an unforgettable backdrop.
Previous participants describe the experience as having “views that delivered big time” with cantering opportunities “around the edge near the top of Mount Keen” that create lifelong memories.
Tips for Booking and Making the Most of Your Trip
Securing the perfect equestrian holidays UK requires careful consideration of several factors beyond simply choosing your destination. From reading reviews to understanding cancellation terms, these practical tips will help you book with confidence.
How to compare riding centres and reviews
When choosing a riding school, look for centres approved by the British Horse Society or the Association of British Riding Schools. Pony Club Centres are also great for children’s activities. While online reviews can be helpful, asking for recommendations in local horse-focused Facebook groups often gives more honest, first-hand insights.
Budgeting for your horse holiday
Horse riding breaks UK vary dramatically in price. Budget options start from around £450 for a 3-night stay, while children’s riding holidays typically cost about £780 for 5 nights (all food and riding included).
In essence, budget-friendly holidays often feature shared accommodation and basic meals, yet still provide quality riding experiences.
According to specialists, these economic options frequently foster a wonderful group atmosphere where you can meet like-minded riders.
What to expect from accommodation and meals
Accommodation standards range from simple to luxurious across UK riding holidays. Budget stays might involve helping with meals or horse care, creating an authentic “extended family” experience.
In contrast, premium options like specialist trail rides include stays in welcoming country inns with excellent cuisine.
Luxury packages often feature access to indoor pools and spa facilities—perfect for soothing saddle-weary muscles after a day’s riding.
Conclusion
The UK offers a wide range of horse riding holidays for all levels in summer 2025, from beach rides in Cornwall to scenic trails in the Scottish Highlands. Whatever your budget or experience, there’s a suitable option available.
Planning ahead is key. Consider the weather, pack the right gear, be honest about your ability, and arrange suitable insurance. Knowing the type of riding experience you want—relaxed, luxurious, or family-focused—will help you choose the right destination.
Each featured location has its own appeal, whether it’s the scenic Welsh borders at Springhill Farm, the open landscapes of Exmoor, or the rugged beauty of the Highlands.
Do your research, check reviews, and understand what’s included before booking. Look for BHS-approved centres for added peace of mind. With the right preparation, your summer 2025 horse riding holiday can be both enjoyable and unforgettable
Welcome to Sell Your Horse, a platform dedicated to connecting equestrians with each other, making horse buying and selling easier and more transparent. With a focus on technology and community-building. My mission is to help like-minded equestrians find the right connections, share knowledge, and build a trusted equine network.
Search The Blog
Follow us
Recent Posts
Search Popular Categories
Featured Listings
Adverts
Horses For Sale
Tack & Equipment
Horseboxes & Trailers
Equine Properties
4x4 Vehicles
Horses For Loan
Horses Wanted
Stallions at Stud
Equine Services
Riding Holidays
