Horseback Riding Tours on the Welsh Coast
For a truly majestic experience, as well as a chance to see a different side of Wales, why not try horseback riding on the beach? These beach horse riding tours on the coast offer stunning views, gorgeous ponies to befriend and an amazing experience to write about on the postcard you send home! But they’re not just for tourists.
Horse riding on the beach is something that everyone needs to try at least once, so even locals should give it a go! Ready to get started? Here are our top picks for horseback riding tours on the Welsh coast that you do not want to miss out on.
Beach horse riding experiences
Nolton Stables, Pembrokeshire
In the middle of the gorgeous St Brides Bay sits Nolton Stables. Only 15 minutes from Haverfordwest county town, this stables has over sixty horses and ponies with something to suit everyone. Rides can go between one- to two and a half hours and the main location for beach horse riding with these stables is Druidstone Haven beach. They also offer countryside rides when the tide is in, or a combination of the two so you can pick the perfect trek for you.
Llanwnda Stables, Pembrokeshire
With some of the best coastal trail riding in Wales, Llanwnda Stables is a must-visit for horse riders of all kinds. Set in Britain’s only coastal National Park, treks from these stables boast one of a kind views. With beach horse riding experiences lasting one, one and a half, or two hours long, they can accommodate riders anywhere on the spectrum of experience, from novice to expert.
At most, there will be a group of up to six customers per trek to make sure plenty of attention is paid to you and your horse. For the more experienced rider, why not try an evening trek, for a gorgeous view of the sunset over the Welsh coast?
Havard Stables, Pembrokeshire
With wonderful views of Newport and Dinas, Havard Stables offer treks for riders of all abilities. Options include one hour treks up the mountain, pony rides and picnics, and pony days in the holidays for younger riders. There’s also a weekly saddle club on Saturdays and lessons are available for beginners. More advanced riders can go on two hour (or longer) treks across bridle paths and sheep trails, to explore the ‘Angel Mountain’, Carningli.
For a fun day out for experienced riders, why not check out their Cream Tea rides? On this unique horse riding experience in Wales, you can travel on horseback to Penlan Uchaf Gardens in the Gwaun Valley, and enjoy a delicious cream tea. If that’s not your thing, they also offer half-day Pub Rides going to the Dyffryn Arms and then back through a beautiful bluebell wood.
For the romantics, there’s even a Romantic Couples Ride, with a discreet escort up the mountain where you’ll have some free time to enjoy a hamper for two. With so many options, there’s something for every kind of rider here.
Preseli Pony Trekking, Pembrokeshire
Set in the heart of the Preseli Hills, this fully licensed and insured Pony Trekking Centre offers stunning coastal views. Preseli Pony Trekking offer escorted pony trekking routes from anywhere between one hour and a full day. With a chance to take in some truly spectacular scenery, and follow the routes of travellers long past, this is a great option for the rider with a love of history.
The length of the trek will depend on your skill level, as hill treks will require some previous riding experience. The new trail ride for this year costs only £130 and involves a full day trail ride to Newport and a one-way ride crossing the highest ridge in the Preseli Hills, Foel Feddau. You’ll then ride through the Gwaun Valley and climb Mynydd Carningl before finishing in Newport. There’s even a stop off for a picnic lunch at Waun Mawr, another gorgeous historical site, so be sure to pack your favourite snacks!
Anglesey Riding Centre, Anglesey
Alongside the beautiful Menai Straits, with awe-inspiring views of the Snowdonia mountain range, Anglesey Riding Centre offers coastal treks unlike anything else. With over five miles of private bridleways, this is an ideal horse riding centre for beginners, as it’s super safe and there’s no fear of running into traffic.
The minimum age for riders is four and there are also lots of options for older and more experienced riders too, so there is a beach horse riding experience for the whole family here! Sessions start at half an hour long for beginners under seven, but more confident riders can go for one and a half-hour long treks along the Welsh coast.
Got a specific activity in mind? It’s worth contacting the centre beforehand, as beach gallops are offered for capable riders, but only after calling in advance!
Cilan Riding Centre, Gwynedd, North Wales
The beautiful Cilan Headland is home to Cilan Riding Centre, a long-established riding centre only three miles from Abersoch village centre. The area is one of Special Scientific Interest, as well as one of Wales’ many nationally recognised areas of Outstanding Beauty, so rides here are an excellent opportunity to see some rare flora and fauna.
For ages four and up, the hour-long beach horse rides are all escorted – perfect for a family trip out! Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy amazing panoramic views during your trek, including Porth Neigwl, Ynys Enlli, Snowdonia, and Cardigan Bay.
Looking for alternative days out on the Welsh coast? Why not check out our list of the best places to surf in Wales. Or, if you love horses want to get away from the seaside for a while, why not explore some popular ways to see the Brecon Beacons on horseback?
