Ellesmere Riding Centre - Trail Ride Holidays in the UK.

Black Mountains Trail Rides
General Information
We organise small groups of experienced riders to ride with us through the beautiful Black Mountains. We keep the rides small to provide quality, not quantity, and it gives you an opportunity to better get to know your fellow riders! Each day you will have to catch your horse in the morning (except on the first day, when your horse will be ready for you when you arrive), feed and groom him, tack him up and get him ready for the day's ride. For those not too good at this, help is always at hand and you'll soon become expert after all, this is part of the fun. Throughout the journey, you are accompanied by an experienced guide who knows a great deal about the local countryside and history, as well as the best ways through the mountains - and whose assistance is always at hand if you need any help.
The countryside we ride through is magnificent and awe inspiring with narrow flower lined lanes between rambling hedgerows leading to miles and miles of wooded valleys, open moorland and unspoilt mountains; and with the rides often taking us over 2000 feet, there are numerous opportunities to marvel at the wonderful views of the largely undiscovered valleys of the Black Mountains below.
Riding Ability & Weight Limit
You do not have to be an expert rider for these trips but you must be able to ride at a canter over rough ground, and capable of spending 6 hours a day in the saddle. The rides are exhilarating and challenging sometimes covering over 20 miles a day. The pace is moderate to fast with some steep scrambles, sudden descents and long canters. Should you be in any doubt about your riding ability, please feel free to contact Myfanwy and she will be happy to discuss it with you.With a herd of 20 horses to choose from, she will always be able to provide the ideal mount for you. Please note, that because of the long distances covered, the weight limit is 14.5 stone (92kg)
Our Horses
The mounts are good, forward going cobs and cob crosses ranging from 14.2hh to 16hh. These horses are renowned for their strength, natural sense of balance and toughness that is essential for riding over this rough terrain - they are in fact made for the job.
Clothing
Hard hats are essential - but if you do not have one we have them available. For your own comfort it is best to be equipped adequately for this ride. You will need: • Jodhpurs or similar, jeans are NOT suitable: • Riding boots or strong boots with a low heel. • Waterproof coat / long stockmans coat. • Riding gloves are advisable. • Riding whip. • Casual clothes for the evening.
Luggage
Please keep luggage to a reasonable amount. It will be transported for you daily by the back up team to your overnight stop. Small saddlebags are provided for your camera, etc.
Insurance
Although Ellesmere Riding Centre has its own insurance cover, we do strongly advise all riders to take out their own Personal Accident and Travel Insurance.