The United Kingdom is Unicorn's home territory so naturally we are the experts here! The UK is well known for its excellent horses and native breeds ranging from Welsh Cobs, Dartmoor and Fell ponies to Clydesdale and Shire heavy horses. Britain also takes great pride in its competitive Olympic teams and many international riders base themselves in the UK to take advantage of the training and facilities available here. We offer riding for all levels of rider: training, trails, very popular short riding breaks as well as longer rides covering all the “must-see” parts of the United Kingdom.
Horse Culture in the United Kingdom
Horses have played an important role in British society for centuries, and they have been used for transportation, agriculture, and in times of war. Leisure riding has also been continually popular across the UK, with many people owning horses or participating in riding lessons. Hacking or trail riding in the countryside is a common pastime which takes advantage of the UK's extensive network of bridleways and public rights of way.
The UK also has a strong tradition of equestrian sports. Horse racing, often called the 'Sport of Kings’, is hugely popular, and iconic events like the Grand National and Royal Ascot draw large crowds. Show jumping, dressage and eventing are also widely practiced, with the UK consistently producing world-class competitors in these Olympic disciplines. The UK also has several native horse and pony breeds, including the Shetland Pony, Welsh Pony and the Shire Horse, which are celebrated and preserved as part of the country's heritage.
The UK also has a long-standing reputation for excellence in saddlery and equestrian equipment manufacturing. This tradition dates back centuries, with British-made saddles, bridles and other tack being highly regarded worldwide for their quality and artisanship.
Horse Riding Holidays in England
Our horse riding holidays in England are centred around Dartmoor in Devon, located in the south of the country. Dartmoor is a National Park renowned for its wild, rugged beauty and diverse landscapes. It is the perfect destination for horse riding enthusiasts looking to explore the great outdoors and experience the English countryside.
We offer a unique chance to cattle drive on horseback, where you can herd over 400 cows, ponies and sheep over Dartmoor on a well-trained Quarter horse. Riders need to be confident to take on this experience as they will be riding up steep inclines, along valleys, through woodland and over the hill tops of Dartmoor where you can see breathtaking views over the moorland. This is the only real cattle drive in the UK, and always books up quickly so be sure to secure your spot early.
Or, why not embark on our 7-night Dartmoor Crossing trail ride. Ascend to the open moors and journey through the 1,000 square kilometre Dartmoor National Park, where herds of cattle, sheep, and wild Dartmoor ponies still roam freely. Experience excellent Western-style riding at a walk, trot, and canter as you traverse forests, rivers, wetlands, and around rock formations, all while visiting charming villages and picturesque hamlets scattered along the moor's edge.
We also offer a Dartmoor short break where riders can experience Western style riding over the moors on Quarter horses. This cowboy ride takes in the breathtaking scenery of Dartmoor and is suitable for intermediate riders who want a short break or who would like to try out Western style riding before taking on our longer cattle drive. Accommodation for this horseback riding vacation in England is in comfortable inns and there is a cooked breakfast and afternoon tea provided every day.
Horse Riding Holidays in Scotland
Scotland is known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, culture, and iconic landmarks such as Loch Ness and Edinburgh Castle. We currently offer 2 horse riding holidays in Scotland, both located in the Scottish borders. Located in Southern Scotland, the Scottish Borders is a beautiful region with rolling hills, rivers, and many historic towns that are steeped in history.
On our Scottish Castles Trail, riders can experience a taste of history as they travel through stunning Scottish landscapes, historical sites and visit a selection of castles along the way. The trail takes in Traquair Castle, the Falls of Clyde, the Bowhill Estate and the hidden homes of Borders Reivers, and there is a chance to stay in castles and inns, some with spa facilities to sooth away a day on horseback.
For a blend of high-quality instruction and enjoyable rides suitable for adults and children of all ages and abilities, our Caledonian Tuition and Trails ride is the ideal choice. Conveniently located within walking distance of a local market town, this centre-based ride offers great views and trails through the unspoiled Scottish wilderness. Guests enjoy comfortable en-suite accommodations and an on-site bistro serving delicious meals. Many visitors return repeatedly to savor the fantastic riding, warm hospitality, and the ever-changing beauty of the Scottish seasons.
Horse Riding Holidays in Wales
Horse riding holidays in Wales present some of the UK's most picturesque scenery. From rugged coastlines to undulating hills and the famous Welsh valleys, there's something for every rider to enjoy. Our Welsh Borders Trail is a 5 day adventure perfect for novice riders onwards, offering an ideal opportunity to explore the rural Celtic countryside. This trail will take you past famous sites such as Offa's Dyke, the wild and untouched Ceriog Valley, ancient woodlands and mysterious, crumbling castles. Enjoy accommodation at the host's farm, the second highest in the country, for the first and last nights, and stay at traditional Welsh Inns while on the trail.
Or for a short weekend break, our Brecon short break is an excellent choice. Spend 2 or 3 days riding well-schooled cobs and cob-crosses, enjoying exciting rides with breathtaking views. You'll find plenty of opportunities for long canters on tracks through heather and fern, open moorland, and forest paths. Most rides offer sightings of “wild” Welsh Mountain ponies in their natural habitat. Groups are small, guided by knowledgeable experts, and routes are flexible to suit different abilities. This is a centre-based ride, with comfortable B&B accommodation and dinners at local inns. If a weekend doesn't work for you, the Short Break is also available mid-week, subject to availability.
The Best Time to Visit the UK for a Riding Holiday
The best time to visit the UK for a horseback vacation depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Overall, the climate is well suited for horse riding because it rarely experiences extreme heat or cold temperatures, making outdoor activities comfortable for most of the year. However, prepare for frequent rain showers, as the UK is known for its wet and often drizzly weather. Keep in mind that the UK's weather is notoriously unpredictable, and you might encounter elements of all four seasons in a single day.
The summer months of June to August are the warmest and offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities. With long daylight hours, it's the perfect time for extended riding sessions. However, if you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists around, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). These times offer milder temperatures for horseback riding and are less crowded with tourists. The coldest month in the UK is typically January, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.
Book Your Horseback Holiday in the UK with Unicorn Trails
If you want to find out more about one of our equestrian holidays in the UK, please don't hesitate to contact our knowledgeable and helpful team for more information. We are experts in horse riding trails, and we can match you with the best horse riding holiday in England, Scotland or Wales for you based on your skill level and preferences. Our team can also assist you with any travel arrangements, ensuring that your UK horseback holiday is stress-free and enjoyable.
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