If you have always wanted to find out what it is like to drive a horse and carriage - now is your chance!
Day 1
Arrive at our historic stables in the heart of Nottinghamshire near Sherwood Forest. The centre is steeped in history and the stables date back to 1610. Close to quiet lanes in a beautiful countryside setting. We will start you off with an introductory lesson - this includes getting to know your driving horse with grooming, handling and getting the harness ready. The harnesses are all traditonal leather and carefully fitted to each horse. We have two carriages a two wheeled and a 4 wheeled 'rural wagonette'. We end the lesson with a ride round our paddock. And then a lesson in unharnessing.
Tonight you can choose to stay in a 4 star hotel or 3 star with spa facilities, both have restaurants on site. The 4* is a family run hotel and originally a coaching inn and still retains the attractive stone facade. It is set in six acres of beautiful grounds and has a new fitness, health and beauty centre. Only 8 miles from Chesterfield station so arrival by train is possible. Our 3* hotel with leisure facilities for those wanting the use of a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
Day 2
Today you will have a second session, again starting off by preparing the horse and harness. There is alot to learn with parts of the harness and it will already be more familiar. Learn to back the horse into the shafts, mount and dismount the carriage and controlling the reins from the drivers seat.
In your free time you can explore local sites like Sherwood Forest and Creswell Crags. Or book spa treatments at your hotel.
Day 3
Your final morning by now you will have driven the carriage yourself and today a chance to sit back and relax as we take you for a jaunt through the local countryside.
This short break is available all year round and can be combined with mounted riding including side saddle - get in touch and we can put together a personalised programme.
We recommend you dress in comfortable riding clothes bring your riding hat and gloves. The centre can loan hats.
Prices
Prices are based on two people sharing the lesson and room.
2 nights B&B with 2 half day carraige driving lessons and a carriage drive staying in 3* Hotel with spa facilities and pool £450pp
2 nights B&B with 2 half day carriage driving lessons and a carriage drive staying in 4* Coach House Hotel £495pp
Solo traveller in 3* Hotel £550 & in 4* Hotel £595
To read Equestrian Escapes reviews click on the link
We have a wide range of 60+ Riding Holidays at your disposal. If you would like to enjoy a short break in Malaga then please look at our Horse Riding Holidays Spain. Feel free to phone Equestrian Escapes on: 01829 781 123
We inspect all the horses in our horse riding holidays to ensure the best quality holiday for you. Beauty treatments should be prebooked to avoid disappointment.
For tips regarding your holiday such as what to wear and riding ability, please visit the Travel Tips page.
We work hard to ensure that each customer has a great time on their holiday. Please see some riding holiday reviews here.
We have a large range of holidays to suit a range of riding abilities. Please see here for more information.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.