RIDE ACROSS HARDY’S DORSET

CHOOSE TO RIDE FROM HILL FORT TO HILL FORT, ALONG THE COAST OR ACROSS THE MARSHWOOD VALE

THE RIDE

There is no set format for the ride - it can be anything from two days to four days, depending on how long you and your group would like it to be. We can stay at a different place each night and move on the next day OR stay at one place for the duration of the ride. A support vehicle will transport all the necessary kit for you and your horse and meet us at our lunch spots and at the end of each day.


As we design the itinerary around you, w

e particularly encourage private groups for this ride however if you would like to join a group, we will put together a mixed group as long as there is enough interest. Please get in touch to discuss this.

DORSET’S HILL FORTS

Rich in archaeology, hill forts allow us to step back in time and re-imagine the lives and livelihoods of our ancestors. Dorset’s hill forts stand in prominent isolation in the landscape and are now well linked by bridleways, making horse riding the best way to explore and get a sense of their positional power whilst enjoying panoramic views across Hardy’s country.


Most of Dorset’s hill forts were built around 2,500 years ago and lived in until the Roman Conquest in 44 AD. By virtue of their formation, position and isolation, most hill forts have evolved into outstanding habitats for wild flowers, birds and butterflies.

HORSES



You are expected to bring your own horse on the ride, however hirelings may be available on request for experienced riders. Horses must be fit enough to cover between 15 - 20 miles in one day.

Each overnight spot has grazing which will be segregated for your horses. There will be a yard with facilities and limited stabling on request. There will be knowledgeable people on hand to help with feeding, watering, tacking up and washing off horses over the course of the ride. Lunch spots are carefully planned with appropriate places to tie up the horses and a support team will ensure hay nets, water buckets and headcollars in place when we arrive.


THE FOOD


Eating and drinking well are key components of the experience and a lot of thought goes into each meal to ensure that they are all delicious and, where possible, locally sourced. Imaginative lunch spots are chosen for their views (and shelter!) and consist of classic English alfresco food.

“On another day, I shall put my foot in the iron, hear the saddle creak, and go forth again on the timeless bridleways of England”

James Wenworth Day - Farming Adventure: A thousand miles through England on a horse