Western trail ride in the new forest

Make your way to Burley Villa School where your trusted steed will be waiting for you. You’ll be given a riding hat to put on and then your instructor will take you through a safety briefing, before giving you a lesson that covers all the basics. You’ll be sitting in a Western saddle, which offers more comfort and security than a traditional saddle, perfect for first-time riders. Once you are confident and in control of your mount, your guide will take your group of around eight riders across the New Forest’s heathland, leafy glades and peaceful woodlands for the remainder of your session.

The ride will be at gentle walk and jog paces only. More experienced riders will not be able to to take faster paces. When you return to the stables, you can enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and soft drinks in the school’s Western-themed cabin.

Package includes

• Western trail ride
  • A two-hour group ride (for two people) in Western saddle, which includes loan of a horse and a hat, a safety briefing, lesson and then a hack in the forest, accompanied by an experienced guide
• Refreshments
  • Complimentary tea and coffee at the end of your ride
• One-night stay at The Mayflower
  • Accommodation for two in a boutique en-suite room
• Dinner for two
  • Relax over a delicious evening meal (up to the value of £35pp)
• Breakfast for two
  • Enjoy a cooked breakfast with continental buffet

Good to know

• Availability
  • Available Monday to Thursday from April until the end of October. Morning and afternoon sessions are available, please specify which you would prefer when booking.
• Location of stay
  • The Mayflower, Hampshire
• Check in / check out
  • Check in: after 3pm; check out: 11am
• Gear
  • For riding you must wear full length trousers and shoes or boots with a heels of 2cm to 4cm. Your shoulders must also be covered and rides will go out even if it is raining so please bring waterproofs.
• Suitability
  • This experience is suitable for beginner and experienced riders alike, and includes a lesson (or refresher) where instructors can assess your competency. The maximum weight for this experience is 14st/190kg and is not suitable for those who are pregnant.