The UK is a land of ancient landmarks, postcard-perfect villages and endless rolling hills – and there’s no better way to take it all in than from the back of a horse. But with so many scenic spots to choose from, where should you start?
From the wild moors of the south to the breathtaking highlands of the north, the UK offers countless opportunities to see unforgettable views. So to help you plan your ride, here are some of the most scenic places to horse ride in the UK.
Navigation
1. New Forest National Park - South East England
2. Cotswold Way - South West England
3. Hadrian's Wall - North England
4. Windsor Great Park - South East England
5. Lake District - North West England
6. Dartmoor - South West England
7. Giant's Causeway - Northern Ireland
8. The Pennine Bridleway - North East England
1. New Forest – South East England
The New Forest is a dream destination for equestrians. With its charming villages, winding woodland trails and sprawling heathland, it’s a paradise designed for horse lovers.
Whether you’re bringing your own horse for a rustic riding retreat or joining a guided hack for the day, you’ll be sharing the landscape with the area’s famous free-roaming ponies, donkeys and cattle.
And after a long day in the saddle? Expect cosy pubs, thatched roofs and hearty meals waiting just around the corner.
Views to expect: Quaint hamlets, coastal glimpses, and sweeping forest panoramas.
2. Cotswold Way – South West England
Riding through the Cotswolds is like stepping into a storybook. With golden-stone villages, rolling patchwork fields and ancient bridleways lined with hedgerows, the Cotswolds Way offers a gentle but unforgettable riding experience.
Many routes pass through or near picturesque market towns like Broadway, Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water – so you can tick off your Cotswold village bucket list from the back of a horse.
Want a tailor-made hack fit for royalty? Why not embark on a 3-hour Cotswold Explorer ride with our host Lucknam Park.
Views to expect: Honey-coloured cottages, open farmland and idyllic English countryside.
3. Hadrian’s Wall – North England
For riders who love a bit of history with their hack, Hadrian’s Wall delivers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers rugged landscapes and windswept trails that run parallel to the ancient Roman wall dividing England and Scotland.
Riding here feels like travelling through time, with dramatic views over Northumberland’s moorland and the occasional crumbling fort peeking through the grass.
Views to expect: Rolling hills, Roman ruins and wild northern skies.
4. Windsor Great Park – South East England
Once the private hunting ground of monarchs, Windsor Great Park is now a royal treat for riders. Just outside London, the park’s sweeping avenues, ornamental gardens and ancient oak trees create a magical backdrop.
Guided hacks are available for visitors wanting to experience the estate’s grandeur on horseback.
Views to expect: Stately avenues, royal monuments and manicured parkland.
5. Lake District – North West England
A haven for outdoor lovers, the Lake District pairs dramatic mountain backdrops with glimmering lakes and wooded valleys.
Horse riding here feels like you’re immersed in a landscape painting, with trails ranging from gentle lakeside ambles to more adventurous fell routes. It's a great spot for confident riders looking to cover ground and soak in the scenery.
Views to expect: Mountain ridges, still lakes, and endless horizons.
6. Dartmoor – South West England
Wild, remote and full of mystery, Dartmoor offers a true sense of adventure. With its windswept tors, stone circles and roaming ponies, this national park is perfect for riders wanting to connect with the land’s ancient, untamed spirit.
Just keep an eye on the weather — it can change as quickly as the terrain. Looking for your next trekking destination? Check out our host Dartmoor Riding Holidays.
Views to expect: Granite outcrops, sweeping moorland and atmospheric skies.
7. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
The basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway are one of the UK’s most iconic natural wonders — and seeing them from the saddle is something truly special.
Coastal rides in this region combine dramatic cliffs, green pastures and folklore-rich landscapes where legends feel close at hand.
Experience the coastal beauty of this iconic landmark for yourself with
Views to expect: Crashing waves, volcanic rock formations and wild coastal cliffs.
8. The Pennine Bridleway - North West England
Stretching over 200 miles through the rugged beauty of the Pennine hills, this National Trail is a true bucket-list route for experienced riders.
The Pennine Bridleway winds through limestone dales, moorland plateaus and quiet farmland, offering a constantly changing backdrop and a real sense of journey.
Whether you ride a short section or take on a multi-day trek, it's a ride that rewards the adventurous.
Views to expect: Rolling uplands, dry stone walls and sweeping valley views.
9. Isle of Skye – Scotland
The Isle of Skye is as rugged as it is breathtaking. With its dramatic cliffs, mystical lochs and shifting skies, it's a dream for adventurous riders looking for somewhere off the beaten track.
Trails here offer a mix of coastal and highland scenery — and you may well find yourself accompanied by the sound of bagpipes carried on the wind.
Views to expect: Jagged mountains, sea lochs, and atmospheric misty landscapes.
10. Black Mountains – Wales
Tucked into the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountains are known for their untamed beauty and vast riding potential.
Whether you’re winding through wooded valleys or cantering along open ridges, the sense of freedom you'll feel is unmatched, not to mention the breaktaking panoramic views.
This area is perfect for longer trail rides and multi-day treks – for riders who don't mind heights!
Ready to go? You You can head off on a mountain-top Welsh adventure with our trusted hosts at The Grange Trekking Centre.
Views to expect: Open hilltops, lush valleys, and dramatic skies over ancient peaks.
Ready to saddle up?
Whether you’re looking for a gentle countryside amble, an exhilarating beach canter or a full-on mountain trek, the UK offers no shortage of unforgettable places to ride.
Each destination on this list brings its own unique charm — and there's nothing quite like exploring them on horseback.
Ready to saddle up? Many of these locations are available to book directly through Cavago, whether you’re bringing your own horse or simply looking for a one-off experience.
