Review
"I had a lovely weekend with Angie and her daughter Claire in Wiltshire. I was looking for an opportunity for a trip where I would feel comfortable travelling solo and that would give me the opportunity to get reacquainted with riding after many years not riding. I found this stay was a really good fit for me.
The accommodation (room in Angie's house) was simple, homely and comfortable. Angie is extremely warm, fun and welcoming, she instantly makes you feel at home and part of the family, which is lovely. I found this trip much more rewarding than having lessons at a riding school on often de-sensitised/robotic horses, because all of the horses are Angie's own and she helps you to get to know them in a bespoke way that builds a relationship and trust with the horse, and she gave some really helpful 1-2-1 tuition as we rode. It is so evident how much Angie loves her horses, she is an excellent and experienced rider, so riding was her was even more rewarding because of this. I also really appreciated that safely was prioritised - I was allocated a very steady, calm horse and we did some relaxed routes through the countryside, which was suited to my ability but no risks were taken. The riding was as described - 3 rides over the course of the weekend, and we were blessed with some lovely autumn weather too! Don't expect a luxury experience but do expect an authentic one: life at the stables can require a bit of mucking in and I found it's more rewarding if you can get involved, help out and enjoy it.
I would recommend this stay in Wiltshire especially if you are a solo traveller, or a couple. I made use of the offer of a pickup/drop off at Salisbury station which was really handy. But next time I would like to bring the car so that I could explore the area on the Saturday afternoon. I went for a walk on the Wessex Ridgeway but I was somewhat limited in options in Tollard Royal - luckily the weather favoured me. Thanks to Angie and Claire!"
Day One
Arrive today after lunch and settle into your accommodation by the stables. For couples, friends and families we have an onsite log cabin which is charmingly located with great views across the estate. There is one bedroom that can be a double or twin bed and a sofa bed in the lounge that can be made up for families. There is a bathroom and a small kitchenette with microwave and fridge. The local gastro pub is walking distance or the hostess will prepare lunch / dinner upon request (prices below). For single ladies or friends wanting to stay in the main house there is a twin room, continental breakfast is included with this option. Riding will start this afternoon with a guided 2 hour hack through this beautiful private estate which was formerly the hunting ground of King John. You may come across the herd of deer!
Within walking distance there is a gastro pub for evening meals or your hostess will prepare dinner upon request (prices below).
Day Two
Today there will be another 2 hour hack out around the estate. We do have some gentle canter tracks for those who are used to cantering out in the open but the restrictions on the estate due to the other wildlife prevent galloping.
If you are looking for other things to do locally during your stay we would recommend a visit to Larmer Tree Gardens. Set in the outstanding landscape of the Cranborne Chase, these beautifully laid out gardens were created by General Pitt Rivers in 1880. These gardens are an extraordinary example of Victorian extravagance and are recognised by English Heritage as a Garden of National Importance.
Day Three
This morning there will be another ride prior to departure around lunchtime.
Package price of £435pp includes –
• 2 nights self catering accommodation in log cabin for 2 people
• 3 x 2 hr private estate hacks OR
• 2 x 3 hr private estate hacks
For singles we offer 2 nights B&B in the house with 3 x 2 hr rides or 2 x 3 hr rides and the price is £475 or 2 nights in the log cabin just for yourself plus the riding is £615.
Child immersion of 1/2 day ride on arrival day, then middle day of riding and horse care and then 1/2 day ride on the departure day £475 please see Pony Mad / Horse Crazy.
**Weight limit 13 1/2 stone**
Customer reviews:
"I had a great time with Angie in Wiltshire. Rode the same horse both days, a lovely, gentle large hunter called Rocky. First day out was with Karly, and second with Angie. Great horses, breathtaking scenery and lovely hosts."
"An ideal holiday for a single lady rider
I had a fantastic time during my short break in Wiltshire. I stayed for an extra night, and had three fantastic hacks over three days. The countryside is stunning and so quiet, and the horses are very high quality and looked after well. Safety is also taken very seriously.
It was especially nice to be able to stay with Angie and family, and be treated from the start like one of the family! Claire was a great teacher, and it was just me on the hacks so I could choose the pace we took and also learned lots from Claire."
To read Equestrian Escapes reviews click on the link
What to do and where to eat:
There is a pub within walking distance.
Travel is possible without a car. Please get the train to Salisbury, a collection is offered by the host (pay them directly) £20.
Professional massage is offered by the host's daughter £45 - please book and pay for directly.
The host will generally be able to offer a dinner menu £12.50 please book and pay for directly.
We inspect all the horses in our horse riding holidays to ensure the best quality holiday for you.
If you are interested in reading more about equestrian aids have a look at our articles page - /A-is-for-Aids/
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.