How to Go Horse Riding in the Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons, located in the south east of Wales, are a mountain range named after the ancient practice of lighting beacons on the peaks to warn of English invasions. The mountains are surrounded by the gorgeous Brecon Beacons National Park, 1347 sq. km of wildlands and waterfalls, making this the ideal place for a scenic horse ride.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Decide on the length of your trip. Do you want to go for an afternoon, a day, or several days? There is so much to see that you could easily spend a week in the Brecon Beacons. Conditions can be favourable from as early as February to as late as October.
2. Arrange a horse. If you do not have your own horse, you can make plans to borrow one from a trekking or riding centre in the area. These centres can also provide equipment and a guide, which is highly recommended for anyone new to riding.
3. Book accommodation. One of the greatest things about the Brecon Beacons is that many of the B&Bs can accommodate you and your horse. You can find an extensive list of horse friendly B&Bs on the Horse Riding Brecon Beacons website or ask for recommendations from the riding centre.
4. Choose your ride. The Brecon Beacons National Park has over 600 miles of bridle paths and tracks, so you will be spoiled for choice. There are several suggested rides on the Horse Riding Brecon Beacons website, or plan your own route through the hills and pathways. You can also ask the riding centre to choose a ride for you.
5. Pack the necessities. Equipment like jodhpurs, hard hats and riding whips can usually be obtained from the riding centre when you arrive, but it is a good idea to pack riding boots and warm, waterproof clothing. An Ordinance Survey Map, a compass and high visibility clothing are recommended if you're travelling without a guide.

Tips & Warnings

• You can simplify the planning process by booking a holiday package from one of the many trekking and riding centres in the area. They will plan your trek and provide you with a guide and accommodation.
• There are many horse friendly pubs in the Brecon Beacons, so you can jump off the horse and stop for a drink.
• Take a break from the horse riding for other activities like climbing, gliding, potholing, canoeing and mountain boarding, or perhaps make a visit to the Brecon Mountain Railway or the Dan-yr-Ogof caves.
• Most riding centres have insurance, but it is a good idea to arrange your own personal accident insurance.
• Mobile phones don't always work on the peaks and in the valleys, so don't rely on them.
• Some riding centres have a weight limit of between 13 and 15 stone.
• The weather can change quickly in the Brecon Beacons, so wear warm, waterproof clothing.