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5 horse riding tours in The Cotswolds

Posted on April 15, 2021

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.

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• The competition season runs from early March to late October.
• The skill of dressage, the precision of show jumping and the bravery and boldness of cross country are combined into one exciting competition. As Britain is the epicentre of the sport, with nearly 200 competitions each year, many international riders make the UK their home. The Cotswolds are peppered with Events, from Badminton 5*, Blenheim Palace 4*, Hartpury 4*, Barbary Castle 4* to the Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park. In addition, there are many lower level events, often held in stunning locations on private estates. The major Events, such as Badminton and Blenheim, run over several days and are a world unto themselves, with multiple other equestrian competitions, parades, demonstrations, food and shopping. Smaller events are friendly, low key one day affairs where you can get much closer to the horses.
• Cotswold Horse Tours can arrange visits to both small and large Horse Trials and Events during the season. Our Eventing Package would include entry, membership to give access to comfortable hospitality for the duration of the competition, a highly experienced guide to explain what is to be seen and a group cross country course walk with an Olympic official. The price will vary according to the competition, hospitality arrangements and group size.
• We will be very happy to arrange a tailor–made stay for eventing enthusiasts to Badminton or another major event, including airport transfers, daily transport and accommodation. Please get in touch for a costing.
• Cotswold Horse Tours can arrange a Yard Visit to a top professional rider to see behind the scenes and observe training in progress. These tend to be informal, chatty times when you can ask lots of questions and meet some beautiful international horses. Cost is determined by group size (max 5 people). This package is easy to combine with another activity, such as going on a hack or going to the races.
• If you can demonstrate sufficient riding skill, Cotswold Horse Tours can arrange tuition in cross country jumping by a qualified and experience trainer on capable school horses. As this is on grass, it is not available in the winter.

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Cotswold Horse Tours

Active experience.

Based in Cirencester, but covering the Cotswolds and beyond, Cotswold Horse Tours offer a vast array of equestrian activities. They are a brilliant way to try something new and to explore the Cotswolds at a slower pace. There is something for all levels of experiences and tastes. Choose from a hack through the countryside for more seasoned riders, or a polo lesson which requires minimal riding skill. If you are looking for a spectator sport then get in touch with Cotswold Horse Tours and they will be happy to plan a day for you. Attending one of the local shows or races is an excellent choice for family groups.

Spectacular opportunities are on offer and there isn’t a better way to see the picturesque scenery of the Cotswolds than during a hack. Spend time exploring on horseback through the gentle undulations, then visit a tempting country pub for lunch. You could visit a chase with a guide who will keep you informed and get you close to the action. Following the route on foot first you’ll then get to feel the horses race by

There are so many renowned events held in this area. Cheltenham Festival and Badminton Horse Trials immerse you in the thrill and fantastic atmosphere. These spectacular occasions are not to be missed while you are staying in the area.

All horse enthusiasts will love any of the experiences available and it is even possible to book a visit to a professional eventing or racing yard. Get a peek behind the scenes before meeting the horses for a true insight into the world of equestrian life.

A day spent with Cotswold Horse Tours is perfect for those looking to try something new, or those with equestrian experience. Get in the saddle and head out to explore the area!

Please note: There is a five-person maximum limit on tours.

Take a hack around the Cotswold countryside, or, if you fancy something a little more high-octane, try Racing or Polo.

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Cotswold Tours & Travel

Experience the ultimate in private guided tours since 2004, experience luxurious and authentic cotswold tours and travel.

At Cotswold Tours & Travel, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, luxury experiences and tours in the Cotswolds and throughout the United Kingdom. As a highly respected leader in the industry, our focus lies on delivering perfection and catering to your individual desires and interests. We understand the importance of listening to our clients, which allows us to respond and deliver tours that go above and beyond visiting the usual tourist destinations. .

We believe in providing immersive experiences that bring you closer to the heart of British culture. Our tours offer the opportunity to go behind the scenes, exploring authentic local life and experiencing things that are not contrived for tourism purposes. While many guides may simply recite historical facts and act as tiresome “teachers,” our tour guides are bursting with passion and enthusiasm. As proud local ambassadors, we share the stories we love and introduce you to real local life while showcasing the best the area has to offer. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to meet local characters who add an extra dimension to your journey.

With our unmatched passion, extensive experience, and personal connections, we can provide you with a truly unparalleled travel experience. Our certified and talented tour guides ensure that every day of your journey is perfected, while their in-depth knowledge of the region will help you make the most out of your vacation. In addition, you will travel in style and comfort in one of our luxury Mercedes vehicles-together ensuring a memorable and exquisite trip.

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Your Cotswold Adventure starts here! --

Join the Cotswold Tour Company for a memorable adventure exploring the idyllic landscapes and charming towns and villages of this area of outstanding natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the quaint architecture, historic landmarks and local treasures as our meticulously planned tour navigates the winding roads and leafy lanes through this tapestry of English countryside. Discover not only the popular tourist destinations but also hidden gems and little known treasures nestled in the rolling hills.

Your Guide --

Meet Johnnie your local driver and tour guide, who has lived and worked in The Cotswolds for three decades. As we navigate the picturesque countryside, Johnnie, with his passion for the Cotswolds and love of local history will provide an informative and interesting commentary. Visitors will be left with cherished memories of this timeless English countryside. This is a private tour and will include only you and your driver. You will not share the car with anyone else.

Our tours showcase the beauty of the area while minimising time spent in the car and with this in mind, we have carefully chosen the routes and destinations. We aim to show you as much as possible whilst ensuring you have a relaxed and enjoyable experience and time to savour the unique atmosphere. There will be plenty of photo opportunities, breaks for a bite to eat, a cream tea, or a pint in a cosy pub, as well as a chance to explore local shops.

Our Cotswold Tours.  We have three options - 8hrs, 6hrs, or 4hrs. Each one takes you on the beautiful back roads to tiny villages, busy towns, stunning viewpoints and historic landmarks. These may include Chipping Campden, Broadway, Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, and Broadway Tower. There will be other locations off the tourist trail. Our aim is to show you the very best of the region and why it is so visited and admired in the time you have available.

The Best of Both Tour,  available from  1st April , visits charming towns, villages and, beautiful gardens. This combined experience promises to be a day filled with the unique character of the region.  You will visit one of the six gardens listed in the Gardens Tour and various towns and villages including Chipping Campden, Broadway, Snowshill, Lower Slaughter and Stow-on-the-Wold.

The English Country Garden Tour  available from 1st April , offers a visit to three out of a choice of six fabulous gardens in the area, dependant on opening times and the best seasonal displays. These may include Hidcote, Kiftsgate, Bourton House, Sezincote, Upton Wold and Snowshill Manor. There will be a chance to look at some of the beautiful countryside, towns and villages.

About the Tours --

TO KEEP THINGS SIMPLE WE HAVE CURATED FIVE TOURS

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Broughton Castle.