Planning Your Trip

Make sure you plan your trip with an appropriate map or guide book. Many maps and routes are available on different web sites (including this one!) but be aware that these may only provide an indication of the route and may not be to scale. You should carefully research ahead of your trip to ensure that the route is right for you. If in doubt, it is always worth getting a copy of the relevant Explorer or Landranger Ordnance Survey Map, which are ideal for riders.

If you are not sure you really know how to read a map - why not consider going on a map reading course or using the handy guides which are available free from Ordnance Survey Maps. Once you know how to read a map, the world is truly your oyster and you can plan your own routes.

Check the weather before your trip to make sure you are as prepared as you can be.

It is important to tell people where you are going, and what your estimated times of arrival back to base are likely to be. Prepare a route plan before your journey outlining where you're going, where your breaks are likely to be and how long you expect the route to take.

Remain flexible to your plans at all times and be prepared to change routes if the situation arises. A change in weather conditions may mean that a road is vulnerable to flooding or too dangerous to ride in wet conditions. Forced breaks due to injuries, or just tiredness, may mean that you need a shortcut home. A back-up route, prepared before hand will make it easier when out in the countryside to think quickly and act appropriately.

Riding Holidays

If you want to explore the countryside on horseback, there are specialist riding holiday operators who offer fully guided holidays, led by a local with knowledge of the landscape, wildlife, culture and folklore of the area to share. If you prefer to go at your own pace, there are companies offering baggage forwarding services so your horse can travel light! You can arrange self-guided holidays which often include pre-booked accommodation for horse and rider, maps, guides and route notes.

Planning your holiday

Wherever you go, ensure a good riding holiday by taking note of the following tips:

• Decide exactly what you want and select your destination accordingly.
• Before booking, find out as much as possible about the surrounding areas, the facilities on offer, the standard of instruction and the type of horses available
• When booking, ensure your potential host knows what you expect and how experienced you are. Do NOT overstate your riding experience or you may arrive to find there are no suitable horses available.
• Take your own riding hat to the current safety standard, plus suitable boots and clothes for riding - some establishments have strict dress codes to ensure your safety and comfort. Ask!
• Find out what else is available - sightseeing, other sports etc. and what clothing and equipment you might need to take.
• Take out insurance - horse riding is a risk sport and if you are injured or become ill, you don't want to be left stranded.