The Best Beach Riding Holidays in the UK: Where to Go and What to Expect
If you’re looking to combine your love for horses with breathtaking coastal views, the UK offers some fantastic beach riding holidays. Galloping along the shoreline with your horse is an unforgettable experience that both you and your horse will cherish. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best destinations for beach riding holidays in the UK, along with recommendations for places to stay and estimated costs.
1. Wales: Cardigan Bay
What to Expect:
Cardigan Bay is known for its breathtaking coastal paths and stunning views of the sea. Enjoy long beach rides with your horse and explore the rugged coastline. The area is also rich in wildlife, with the chance to spot dolphins in the bay.
Where to Stay:
- Cwmtydu Cottage
This charming cottage offers equestrian facilities and direct access to the beach. It accommodates horses and is surrounded by stunning countryside.
Approximate Cost:
- £90-£120 per night for the cottage, with additional costs for stabling your horse.
2. Northumberland: Bamburgh Beach
What to Expect:
Bamburgh Beach features miles of golden sand and stunning views of Bamburgh Castle. This area offers fantastic riding trails that allow you to enjoy the scenery while riding along the beach and the surrounding countryside.
Where to Stay:
- The Carriage House
Located near the beach, this accommodation offers stabling facilities for horses.
Approximate Cost:
- £100-£150 per night, with additional costs for stabling.
3. Scotland: Isle of Skye
What to Expect:
The Isle of Skye boasts some of the most spectacular landscapes in the UK, with rugged mountains and pristine beaches. Riding on the beach here offers a unique experience, with the backdrop of the Cuillin Mountains making it truly unforgettable.
Where to Stay:
- Skye Equestrian Centre
The centre provides excellent equestrian facilities, including stabling and accommodation for horse owners.
Approximate Cost:
- £80-£120 per night, with additional costs for horse accommodation.
4. Cornwall: Perranporth Beach
What to Expect:
Perranporth Beach is famous for its three-mile stretch of sand and beautiful dunes. The beach offers a fantastic setting for riding, with ample space for galloping along the shore.
Where to Stay:
- The Perran Lodge
A family-run lodge that welcomes horses and offers stabling and grazing.
Approximate Cost:
- £70-£100 per night, with stabling at an additional cost.
5. East Sussex: Camber Sands
What to Expect:
Camber Sands is known for its stunning golden sands and is one of the few beaches in the UK where horses are allowed to ride. The flat terrain is perfect for long rides and enjoying the sea breeze.
Where to Stay:
- The Old Barn
This accommodation provides a horse-friendly environment with access to stabling and nearby riding trails.
Approximate Cost:
- £85-£110 per night, plus costs for horse stabling.
Tips for a Successful Beach Riding Holiday
- Check Local Regulations: Before heading to the beach, ensure you understand the local regulations regarding riding on the beach and any specific access rules for horse riders.
- Prepare for the Weather: The UK weather can be unpredictable, so pack appropriate gear for both you and your horse, including waterproofs and fly sheets.
- Nutrition Matters: Keep your horse's diet consistent to avoid digestive disturbances. Bring forage from home where possible, and consider incorporating a high-fibre mash, such as SPILLERS Perform & Restore Mash, into their diet to aid hydration for the long journey.
- Consider a Guided Ride: If you're new to beach riding, consider booking a guided ride to get familiar with the area and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Beach riding holidays in the UK offer a unique and exhilarating experience for both horse and rider. With stunning landscapes and the thrill of riding on sandy shores, these holidays are a fantastic way to bond with your horse while exploring beautiful locations. Be sure to plan ahead, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure!
For more information on SPILLERS products to keep your horse in top condition during your travels, visit our website or contact our nutrition specialists.