Top Things to do in New Forest National Park Hampshire
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Things to do in New Forest National Park Hampshire, England: The Best Horseback Riding Tours
If you need a word to perfectly describe New Forest, “welcoming” would be it. The lowland (i.e. no mountains) park is filled with scenic views and wide trails that beg to be explored as they wind through centuries-old woodlands. Visit Bolderwood, a protected forest and deer sanctuary that was once the hunting grounds of the Norman kings. Fish at Moors Valley before heading skyward for a treetops walk. Prefer the country-house life? Head to Beaulieu, where you can get lost in the Victorian-era at the Palace House before following in the footsteps of medieval monks at the property’s abbey.
Restaurants in New Forest National Park Hampshire
1. Arniss Equestrian
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 184 reviews
British Horse Society approved riding school offering both lessons and hacking, with direct access on to the New Forest. Beginner instructional rides, mixed ability rides, and longer rides for more experienced riders. Experience days, pub rides, & special occasion experiences available. Please see our website or call us to discuss your requirements.
Reviewed By SusieF222 - Feltham, United Kingdom
Not having ridden for a good number of years, returning to it with Arniss has been amazing. All my nerves were soon forgotten with the friendly helpful staff, yesterday I went again, another Hack through the forest, Amy was really knowledgeable about the forest, we reached a beautiful area where we stopped and Amy took photos for us. I would recommend this place for anyone who would like to experience horse riding, with the added bonus of stunning scenery and the chance of seeing amazing wildlife. I will be back again, thanks to all at Arniss my passion for horse riding has been rekindled.
2. Bagnum Equestrian Centre Ltd
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 104 reviews
We are a friendly, family run Equestrian Centre based in the New Forest, we offer hacking, lessons and walkouts for adults and children from the age of 5 years old. We cater for all abilities, from beginners to the very advanced rider. Our friendly staff will provide you with help and guidance while showing you the fantastic scenery in the wide open forest. Our private and group lessons are held in our new outdoor arena with one of our qualified istructor. We also offer Jump lessons to our more advanced riders in our outdoor jumping paddock. We hold regular competitions as well as holiday pony club camps for children.
Reviewed By bneilpb - Deal, United Kingdom
My 3 teenage children, my wife and I enjoyed a 1 hour hack through the beautiful forestland ably guided by Cassidy and Asher. The horses were all in amazing condition which added to the overall experience. Our experience from the time we arrived at Bagnum to the time we left was so enjoyable. The staff were very attentive and ensured all of the family knew exactly what we needed to do despite us all having some riding experience. The hack itself was very enjoyable with a mix of walking and trotting through tracks and on road. We felt totally reassured by our two guides throughout. Thank you Bagnum Equestrian Centre for such a great time. We look forward to seeing you again soon.
3. Coombe Stables
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Coombe Stables is situated in the heart of the New Forest. Offering both private and group lessons with highly trained instructors, Coombe Stables caters to total beginners up to experienced riders. Now offering wonderful New Forest Hacks and school holiday activities.
Reviewed By retiredtravelbonus
My daughter went twice during our stay and had a wonderful time. They match the rider to the appropriate horse, have both riders and ponies well being as paramount and provide a wonderful experience. Although quite experienced riding in an arena, she had never hacked out. They gave her a superb first taste of this activity. I would happily recommend to any rider experienced or novice.
4. Burley-Villa School of Riding
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 210 reviews
Reviewed By P5645OFcarolk
Booked a 2 hour Western ride for myself and my daughter. After being greeted on arrival, Kate and Carol made sure we were well matched with our horses (Blue and Cree) and comfortable in the saddle and with the knowledge to control our horses on the ride before leaving the stables. There was a short walk on the road where the girls made sure we were safe before a very enjoyable walk/jog through the New Forest. Thank you for a lovely experience.
5. Brokenhurst Riding Stables
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 80 reviews
Reviewed By ShazzerB68 - Eastleigh, United Kingdom
My husband bought vouchers for my birthday for us to take a 2hr ride through the New Forest. Of course due to Covid-19 this was then put on hold. I did have difficulties getting through to the office to make my booking but this was more on my part and only being able to call in the afternoon (when I imagine they are very busy). Eventually we made a booking and were given strict covid-19 instructions on what to when we arrived. It was a beautiful, sunny day which helped and we had the most fantastic ride through the New Forest under instruction from a Polish lady who really was very friendly, patient and helpful. We were both novice riders and thoroughly enjoyed our time. The horses were very responsive and placid which was great. I would thoroughly recommend this to anyone who is thinking about it. All staff that we met were friendly, helpful and informative. After 2hrs though we were both very saddle-sore!!
6. 4 Seasons Forest Rides
Overall Ratings
2.5 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By JerryL746 - Windlesham, United Kingdom
We had a lovely ride through the beautiful New Forest with Alice. She was very quick and clear with communications when booking, she was very helpful and was able to find a spot for us to ride. It was especially helpful as she has access to a wide range of horses that can accommodate everyone from kids to adults. The horses were very well maintained and happy and made for great, calm companions on the ride. Alice was thorough and professional when dealing with all safety aspects of riding, and had riding hats that can be borrow. We rode for about 3 hours, stopped at a lovely pub for lunch and then a great ride back. It was a very reasonable price and enjoyed every second. I'd recommend her riding centre to anyone and hope to be back sooner rather than later
