Personalised escorted trail rides; 1.5 hours to a full day
Our riding benefits from an extensive network of byways and bridleways that offers off road riding among the best in South East England.
Our routes are meticulously and individually researched and designed to form a series of circular routes from our headquarters at The Watermill, Great Bardfield and typically occupy half day and full day riding. However I can plan shorter rides of 1.5 to 2.5 hours if this fits your schedule, this has proved popular for summer evenings.
The routes are planned to minimise the amount of road work. Full day routes feature the option of pub or picnic lunch. There is no shortage of fabulous pubs in this area and with the proximity of London showing its influence. The choice of fare is wide ranging from rustic and traditional pubs serving the local needs (such as The Horse and Groom which often plays host to the local hunt) offering delicious and ample portions of home cooked produce, to gourmet bistro establishments for the foodies.
In addition, I have access to a large local estate; Spains Hall , one of most historically interesting country homes in Essex, with extensive farm tracks in both heavily wooded and open countryside. This estate is suitable for half day rides and we recommend it as an introduction ride. It is also the best suited or for our shorter rides (1.5 hours to 2.5 hours).
My horses have been selected on the basis of their performance, stamina and safety records on, and off, road. They spend their whole time out in the field or on the trail and you will find them lively willing and fun. However they do ask of you, the rider, a level of experience that is appreciative of their spirit and interaction. Riders should be competent in walk trot and canter across uneven surfaces.
The main picture shows a ride stopping for coffee and chocolate fudge cakes at the picture postcard village of Finchingfield with its wooden windmill, pond and sixteenth century cottages, a short ride from our stables. The cafe overlooks the village green, where we can tether our horses. The other pictures are of The 17C Watermill where we have our headquarters and Spains Hall.
