There are lots of reasons the UK is perfect for a horse-riding holiday; there’s such a variety of landscapes we’re spoilt for choice, from mountains and moors to vast sweeping beaches and rugged cliffs – there’s something for everyone, whether you want a leisurely trail ride, to something more adventurous, you’re guaranteed to find the right one for you.
We’re going to have a look at some of the best places to go on a UK horse riding holiday in 2026 for both beginners and experienced riders.
SCOTLAND
William Wallace Short Trail Ride
- Where: Scottish Borders
- Time: 2 days riding
- Riding ability: You need to be able to walk, trot and canter confidently.
Follow in the steps of William Wallace as you hack through amazing countryside, forests and rolling hills. You’ll pass by Wallace’s hideaways in the forest and caves around Lanark, and visit the site of the famous Lanark Castle, before going over the hills to Stobo Kirk. It’s one of many horse-riding trails in Scotland.
WALES
Brecon Beacon Short Break
- Where: Brecon Beacons
- Time: 2-3 days riding
- Riding ability: Intermediate and experienced
This break takes in breathtaking views of this Welsh national park that’s home to the highest mountain in South Wales, Pen y Fan. There are plenty of long canters over open moorland and along forest tracks, with shorter rides for less experienced riders. You’ll see Welsh mountain ponies in their natural habitat, as well as red kites, buzzards, red grouse and golden plovers.
ENGLAND
Beach Riding Holiday
- Where: Suffolk
- Time: 2 days riding
- Riding ability: Novice/intermediate, as well as more experienced riders who can trot and canter confidently.
This is the perfect opportunity to take in the sea air on the lovely wide, sandy beaches of Suffolk. You’ll start your trip with a lesson to assess your ability and assign the right horses to the right riders so that you’re ready for your first beach ride the next day. This holiday is ideal for new or nervous riders, as well as for intermediate and more experienced riders, so it’s perfect for families.
NORTHERN IRELAND
Sheans House Farm
- Where: County Antrim
- Time: Varies
- Riding ability: All abilities
On this trip you choose your own adventure, depending on your experience, ability and mood. Seeing the north coast of Ireland on a horse is a unique experience, whether you’re wanting a speedy gallop along the beach with the wind in your hair, or a gentle hack up into the hills with the smell of the peat in your nostrils. You’ll even be able to visit some of the locations from Game of Thrones.
WHEN TO GO
UK weather can be changeable, whatever time of year it is; January and February are the coldest months, with July generally being the hottest. While May, June, September and October tend to have mild/warm weather it’s worth remembering that midge season starts in Scotland in late May/early June and carries on until September.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner, the UK is a great place to explore with its beautiful landscape and rich history. There’s something really special about experiencing all of this on horseback, it gives you a different perspective and helps you feel connected to nature as well as to the people who were there before you.
Of course, however careful you are horse riding comes with a certain amount of risk, so if you don’t own a horse but you do ride, then our horse rider insurance could be the policy for you as it includes cover for you, as well as some *emergency cover for the horse you’re riding. Give us a call, or visit our website for a free, no-strings quote today.
*Emergency treatment for up to 24 hours following an external accidental visible injury plus veterinary certified euthanasia, and reasonable removal and disposal costs.
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