Jemima Kirkwood
26 May 2021
Northumberland is certainly a land to be explored, and what better way to take in the sights than on horseback?
Whilst this may sound adventurous and appealing, not everyone is skilled in horseback riding, so we have pulled together some of the best riding schools in Northumberland who will get you on a horse and trekking in no time!
Whether you are an experienced rider or a beginner, there are lots of riding schools in Northumberland that can cater to your needs. Some will even offer lessons, so if you know how to ride but are a bit rusty, a refresher course might be on the cards.
Northumberland offers up tremendous landscapes for horseback riding. Most people will be drawn to the beaches as there is something romantic about the idea of trekking a horse along a beach with the sound of the waves lapping and sand under hoof. The Northumberland National Park is also a dreamy place to ride horseback with lots of woodland and moorland to discover, as well as tree-lined tracks and flowing rivers. The Cheviots and Kielder Forest Park are also known to be enjoyed by more experienced riders and the scenery is second to none. Many riding schools offer guided treks and hacks which are guided, meaning an instructor will accompany you helping you make the most of the trip.
Here are some of the best centres for horse riding lessons and hacking in Northumberland…
Ranging from instructional rides to moor rides, Kimmerston Riding Centre welcomes everyone to come and spend some time with their gorgeous horses. The instructional rides are for those new to the sport and those who need to brush up on some forgotten skills.
They host 1-to-2-hour rides which take you on gentle treks along quiet countryside roads, fields and woodlands and they can also take you up to the moors on Ford Moss where the views are said to be incredible. You’ll see lots of wildlife on your travels here spotting, everything from deer and hares to buzzards.
Location: Wooler, NE71 6JH
Fancy horse riding on a Northumberland beach? Slate Hall is the place to come. Specialising in beach rides in Northumberland, as well as taught lessons and development rides, this is a popular place for those keen to mix sand with horses. Based in Seahouses, the beach rides take you past the historic Bamburgh Castle and offer up views to the Farne Islands and Dunstanburgh Castle.
You can imagine life as a Viking as you take on some Bamburgh horse riding, as this is where many battles were fought to win over this castle! This is such a nice way to get into the fresh air and enjoy your surroundings from a different perspective.
Location: Seahouses, NE68 7UL
Located just 2 miles from Alnwick in the picturesque countryside, you will find this riding school perched on top of a hill with views out over the Northumbrian coast. The school offers riding lessons and pony treks to its visitors and, with over 30 horses, there is a horse to suit everyone.
The countryside hacks are a lovely way to explore the area and the guides will give great tips on how to manage your horse, feel great in the saddle, and help you improve your technique the whole way round.
Location: Alnwick, NE66 2HG
This riding centre has around 20 ponies and horses providing a great range to pick from, and you will usually get guidance and advice when it comes to matching your skill level and experience. You can pick from lessons, refresher courses or just some good old countryside hacks.
They accept group bookings up to six people but are also happy for you to come alone and spend quality time with their friendly ponies. This is one of the best and friendliest equestrian centres in Northumberland.
Location: Alnwick, NE66 2LS
Set in the Redesdale Valley between the villages of Otterburn and Elsdon, this riding school in Northumberland provides lessons for adults and children of all ages and also fantastic trekking sessions for experienced riders. Home to a variety of horse and pony breeds, they pride themselves on happy horses and satisfied customers.
Join in some treks with the locals who visit every weekend, or book yourself into a beginners' lesson during your time off – you never know, it could become your next passion!
Location: Otterburn, NE19 1AF
We hope you have had fun finding out about these riding schools and that you are on your way to booking a horse-riding holiday in Northumberland today. With so much beauty around, it is the perfect way to soak it all in. You will make memories forever horse riding along the Northumberland coast, with the sea at your fingertips it seems like the best way to explore it.
Stay in a self-catering cottage during your horse-riding holiday to Northumberland
View our Northumberland cottages today and plan a self-catering break to the area. With no time curfews, you can be out adventuring all day knowing you have a cosy home to return to with a hot shower and welcoming bed. What more could you want?
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.