Posted on June 24, 2024
Trotting through valleys, open fields and vast woodland, it doesn’t get more quintessentially English than traversing The Cotswolds on horseback.
Exploring these rolling hills on a horse riding tour is something anyone can do, whether you’re a complete beginner or experienced rider. So why not take that dream of galloping through the countryside with a trusty steed and turn it into a reality with one of these horse riding tours in The Cotswolds?
Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre
Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre have been sharing their passion for horses with locals and tourists since 1999. Their philosophy is to give everyone and every animal the best opportunity. That’s why so many of their horses and ponies are rescues.
One of their most popular tours are their river rides, perfect for kids or nervous adults who fancy giving horse riding a go! With guides walking alongside riders, the tour takes place at the river in Lower Slaughter where riders and horses can splash around in the waters.
For something a little more traditional, they offer hacks for experienced or beginner riders which take you through the picturesque Slaughter villages and if it’s a warm, sunny day, the route leads through a refreshing splash in the River Eye.
Find out more about Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre’s rides here.
Cotswolds Riding at Durhams Farm
Durhams Farm Riding School is a family run business situated in The North Cotswolds and is home to 32 rescued, retired and working horses and ponies. Their farm spans 60 acres of glorious countryside, set between the popular market towns of Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Norton.
Experiencing a hack in The Cotswolds is such a fantastic way to see the countryside and the team are happy to escort riders along one of the many wonderful bridleways or woodland trails in the area. For something a little different however, why not check out their pub rides? There’s no better way to travel to the local pub than on horseback.
Lasting between 3 1/2 - 4 hours, the ride involves a trip to The Greedy Goose or The Fox Inn at Broadwell for a delicious lunch and maybe a pint, before making the trip back with a full belly and grin on your face.
Find out more about the rides available with Cotswolds Riding here.
High Pointe Tours - Cotswold Country Estates Ride
If you’re looking for the ultimate equestrian escape to The Cotswolds with all the romance of olde English countryside charm, then a four day Cotswold Country Estates Tour might just be for you.
You’ll traverse The Cotswolds on horseback, visiting magnificent private country estates, magical gardens with stops for high tea and even stay in a manor home that’s not open to the public. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy delicious home-cooked lunches provided by the hosts and candlelit dinners.
This tour is a truly unique experience and an opportunity to rewind time and immerse yourself in rural England from days past.
See the full itinerary and contact the guide over on their website.
Cotswold Farm Park Fun Rides
If riding is already your thing and you have a horse to take on an adventure, then head to Cotswold Farm Park! The fun rides give riders exclusive access to their private estate in the heart of The Cotswolds with a route covering approximately 10 miles of woodland trails, grass gallops, open hillsides and a splash through clear waters in the river Windrush.
The fun rides at Cotswold Farm Park come with a number of perks, including a photographer to capture your day, 50 optional jumps to suit all ages and abilities plus access to hot and cold refreshments in their café.
To find out more about booking a fun ride, head over to the Cotswold Farm Park website where you can book a time slot. These slots ensure that all riders can take their time and enjoy their own space throughout the ride.
Cotswold Trail Riding
Located in the heart of The Cotswolds at Brookthorpe village, roam the rolling countryside and experience breathtaking views of the Severn Vale with Cotswold Trail Riding.
Their hacks can be tailored to work for you, whether that's a short ride through the local village or an all-day excursion along trails, woodlands, parkland and bridleways. Their pub rides are also a great option to unwind in style as you trot through organic farmland and open countryside, stopping off at a local pub for refreshments along the way.
Find out more over on their website.
Rein and Shine Equestrian Centre
Situated near Swindon, Rein and Shine Equestrian Centre provides a range of horse riding experiences tailored to suit both novice and experienced riders.
Known for its excellent facilities and professional staff, the centre offers guided hacks and trail rides that showcase the captivating Cotswolds countryside. Guests can enjoy the natural beauty of the region while riding through fields, woods, and along scenic trails.
Rein and Shine focuses on creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for all visitors, ensuring that everyone, regardless of skill level, can appreciate the joy of horse riding in such a picturesque setting.
Discover more on their website here.
The Riding School at Lucknam Park
The Riding School at Lucknam Park, located within the luxurious Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa estate, offers an exclusive and refined horse riding experience.
This top-tier facility provides guided rides through the estate's expansive parkland and surrounding countryside, featuring scenic trails and historic sites. The well-trained horses and expert instructors ensure a safe and enjoyable ride for all levels of riders, from beginners to advanced.
From traditional hacks across the estate to more private and romantic afternoon experiences in the afternoon tea or private ride and picnics. There’s options to fit anyone's fancy.
For more information go to their website here.
Cotswolds Riding at Jill Carenza Equestrian
Jill Carenza began riding before she could walk, or so the story goes. Located just off the famous Cotswold Way walking route is Cotswold Riding and Jill Carenza Equestrian.
With over 35 years of experience in the stables, they boast over 50 horses that suit all abilities, sizes and ages. However for confident riders, the nearby Cotswold Escarpment and cross-country scenery provides the ideal place for a fast hack.
Or why not try out the show jumping and dressage schooling facilities? Beginners can enjoy the tuition of a slower-pace bridleway hack and the famous pub ride where you can refuel at a Cotswold pub and chat to other riders and locals.
Find out more on their website here.
Barton End Equestrian Centre
Barton End Stables sits quietly in one of the Stroud Valleys, near the historical milling village of Nailsworth. This horse-riding holiday is the place to discover your passion or season your skills.
With a busy activity calendar all year round and over 40 horses of varying abilities, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. Fancy learning to ride side-saddle? Or how does an evening hack with friends sound? Barton End Stables takes pride in being a riding centre that offers a wide selection of activities to suit all comers, welcoming all skill levels and ages. If you are looking for an enjoyable riding experience with qualified Instructors and value for money, there are few better places you can find.
Discover more on their website here.