Activities-Horse-riding-HERO-@kimmerstonridingcentre

Horse riding in Northumberland

Explore on horseback
Saddle up and take the reins in Northumberland, one of England's best counties for horse riding holidays. Quiet country lanes, ancient bridleways and miles of empty beaches make for some of the finest riding routes anywhere in the country. Local activity providers can supply horses, helmets and guided routes, or if you're an experienced rider, you're free to go exploring on your own.

Sightseeing from the saddle

Whether you're an experienced equestrian or taking to the saddle for the first time, Northumberland's horse riding routes and activity providers mean anyone can canter along our coast and through our countryside.

Northumberland offers excellent horse riding for all abilities, with miles of quiet country lanes, bridleways and open countryside to explore.

Beach horse riding in Northumberland

Beaches in Northumberland make for particularly spectacular riding experiences - gallop across miles of deserted sand and take in some of our finest coastal views and Northumberland castles along the way.

Horse riding in Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines

Heading inland, take an exhilarating upland hack through the stunning Northumberland National Park or the wild expanse of the North Pennines.

The North Pennines are a rider's haven, with trails following old railway lines as well as country lanes and bridleways.

The Cheviot Hills are great for you and your horse, with acres of big skies, rugged moorland, tranquil old shepherd's trails and sheltered forest bridleways.

There's fantastic riding at Kielder Water and Forest Park, where you can literally take your horse to water and explore 27 miles of shoreline on horseback.

If you want a meandering trek, try the Till Valley, Upper Coquetdale or Wild Redesdale.

To search for routes, public footpaths and bridleways in Northumberland, visit The British Horse Society's website.

Horse riding providers in Northumberland

Swinhoe Farm Riding Centre

Swinhoe Farm House, near Belford, NE70 7LJ. A small family business run on a 1,750-acre farm with spectacular views of the Cheviots and coast, overlooking Holy Island. Riding lessons from beginner to advanced, livery, hacks to St Cuthbert's Cave and BHS exam training. 01668 213370 / 07762 773559.

Kimmerston Riding Centre

Milfield, on the A697 north of Wooler, NE71 6JH. Set at the foot of the Cheviot Hills, catering for riders of all ages and abilities with tuition, hacking, and coastal and Northumberland countryside rides. 01668 216283. 

Haggerston Riding Centre

Haggerston Castle, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, TD15. Beach and countryside treks on the grounds of Haggerston Castle, suited to all ages including first-time riders and families. 

Sinderhope Pony Trekking Centre

Allen Valley, near Hexham, NE47. Moorland and dale trekking with breathtaking views over Roman Wall country. A favourite for families, beginners and confident riders wanting a real sense of remoteness.

Townfoot Riding School & Stables

Shilbottle, near Alnwick, NE66 2HG. A small, friendly yard welcoming all ages and abilities, with indoor and outdoor all-weather arenas, show jumping, and both coastal and countryside hacking. 01665 575020

The Pegasus Centre

Tranwell, near Morpeth, NE61 6AF. A Riding for the Disabled Association centre offering inclusive riding sessions for disabled and able-bodied riders of all ages, with indoor and outdoor arenas. 01670 518219

Alnwick Riding Centre

5 Bailiffgate, Alnwick, NE66 1LY. A family-run yard offering friendly lessons for beginners and children in a relaxed, local atmosphere. 07810 697397

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, most centres, including Sinderhope, Alnwick Riding Centre and The Pegasus Centre, offer fully guided, beginner-friendly treks and lessons.

Haggerston Riding Centre specialises in coastal rides, with routes taking in Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands.

No, most centres provide helmets and high-vis tabards as standard. Boots with a small heel are recommended.

Many centres welcome children from around age three, often with dedicated pony rides or kids' clubs. Check with individual providers, as this varies across the region.

Yes, Northumberland has extensive bridleways and open access land. Use The British Horse Society's website to plan your own route.

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