In many ways, visiting the Lake District is like reconnecting with nature, the land and about rediscovering all that it is to be at one with it. Switch off your mobile phone, put down your car keys and revel in the simple things life has to offer.
And little brings you closer to nature than making an alliance with one of its most majestic and graceful creatures, the horse. Exploring the waters and landscapes of the Lake District on horseback is uplifting and inspiring.
Lakelovers cottages make for the perfect base for horse riding breaks in the Lake District. We have around 500 luxurious holiday cottages scattered in and around the most popular destinations in the region and so finding one within close proximity to a good equestrian centre is simple.
Each cottage is handpicked for you and all have been awarded 3 to 5 stars by VisitEngland. They are all unique and whether you are travelling in a small, intimate group, with family or a large group, we have just the place for you.
So, don your jodhpurs and saddle up, as we take a look at some of the options for a memorable Lake District horse riding holiday.
No matter what your level of experience, Lakeland Pony Treks have a ride that is suitable for you. Based at Limefitt Park, just off the A592 near Troutbeck and set amongst beautiful scenery, this centre is a great option for families.
The Lead Rein Ride is good for complete beginners, young riders and those who are nervous about taking to the saddle. Experienced staff ride alongside you to ensure that you are comfortable and have a great time as you gently meander through the surrounding countryside.
There are also rides for intermediates with some confidence and experience, but for the more adventurous, maybe the Two Hour Fell Ride is the one to consider.
On this trek you walk, trot and canter up the famous Garburn Pass towards Kentmere, before heading across Applethwaite Common, taking in Dubbs Reservoir and then returning to the centre via a picturesque wooded area.
At Old Hutton near Kendal, you will find Holmescales Riding Centre, who offer a comprehensive service that includes treks for novices and intermediate riders, hacks for the more experienced and rides for groups of mixed abilities.
An impressive stable is home to many beautiful ponies and horses and you are able to select one that you think best matches your experience and the type of ride you wish to sign up for, thus giving the service an element of the bespoke.
Holmescales also have livery stables and so should you want to keep your horse with them, on a full or part of the time basis, you can.
Riding for all Abilities
Just to the north of Ullswater, west of the A5091, the Rookin House Equestrian and Activity Centre, which offers a range of activities; quad biking, archery, shooting and of course horse riding and trekking.
Established 25 years ago Rookin House is affiliated with the Pony Club and is ABRS approved. Their services cater for all abilities including riding lessons in a large indoor school, birthday pony parties and trekking.
Take in the stunning views of the Ullswater and Matterdale Valleys as you wind your way through the northern landscapes of the Lake District on one of the numerous routes mapped out around the centre.
Experienced riders are in for a real treat if they decide to pay a visit to Black Horses, situated to the north of Cartmel on Aynsome Lane.
Here, Greenbank Farm breed, train and work the impressive Friesian horses. Famous for being black, powerful and elegant, this breed has been on the brink of extinction more than once, but now, thanks to the likes of Greenbank, they are in the ascendancy.
The farm doesn’t see itself as a riding centre, but run “Experience Days” during which you can ride a Friesian in one of several scenarios.
Enjoy a quiet hack through the historic village of Cartmel or along local bridleways with views of Cartmel Valley and Morecombe Bay from the top of Hampsfell. For something more exhilarating, you can book a beach ride and enjoy galloping over the sands.
If you would rather let someone else take over the reins, Black Horses also give you the opportunity to ride in a horse drawn carriage. The Cartmel Village Ride will pick you up on your doorstep, should you be staying nearby and take you on a romantic tour of the village. Champagne, chocolates and flowers are available on request and help make the moment complete.
Based near Millom, only a short ride away from the stunning Lake District coast, Heavy Horses offer thrilling horse riding experience on a magnificent Clydesdale, Shire or Ardennes. Whether you’re an experienced rider who would love the thrill of a fast ride along the stunning nearby beaches, or if you’d like to get to know the power of these beautiful animals in a more gentle experience, you’ll enjoy a fell or farmyard trek.
Heavy Horses really know about making your experience memorable, and their champagne Carriage Driving experience is certainly one to treasure.
Horse riding holidays in the Lake District are a great way to see the surrounding area from a completely new perspective, to enjoy some fresh air and exercise and to acquire some new skills or brush up on some you may not have used for a while.
And, at the end of the day you can rest assured that you are returning to a fabulous Lakelovers Lake District holiday cottage where luxury and comfort are abound and where you can get a good night’s rest, ready for the adventures that the next day will bring.
Our experienced customer service team are on hand online, via email at enquiries@lakelovers.co.uk or on 015394 88855, to give advice and recommendations on booking a Lake District activity.
Old Ambleside House is a luxurious property that dates back to the late 16th/17th Century that has been lovingly refurbished by the current owners to create an amazing property right in the heart of old Ambleside to create the most fantastic, high quality retreat for friends and family.
Ellerthwaite House is a beautiful Victorian semi-detached property in a perfect location just a short stroll of under 5 minutes from Windermere village where you will find a great mixture of bars, restaurants and cafes, along with a variety of unique little shops, galleries and boutiques. Perfect for family gatherings or friends to enjoy, and only five minutes' drive from Bowness and the shores of Lake Windermere itself.
Located on a quite side street in the centre of Ambleside village, just a few minutes walk from a great selection of shops, bars and eateries, Fell Cottage is a beautiful cottage that has been finished in contemporary manner to offer quality accommodation in a convenient location.
Finished to the highest possible standard, No 1 and No 2 Rose Cottages are two adjacent country cottages that are presented to the very highest standard and offer and amazing option for two couples wishing to travel together but wanting their own space and privacy. Both cottages are finished to the same very same standard and so arriving at the cottages you will be spoilt for choice between the two. The cottages are set in the unspoilt village of Bouth just a few minutes drive from Lake Windermere in the heart of the pretty Rusland Valley. These superb romantic retreats offers something special and provide you with the opportunity to enjoy time together and for your holiday to be as active or relaxing as you wish.
Set on a quiet side street, just five minutes walk from Keswick Market Square, Little Leveret, is a real treat of a cottage that reflects the owner's attention to detail and desire to create the perfect Lakeland hideaway.
La'al Field House is a much loved family home that is now being offered as a great holiday home within walking distance of the bustling market square and just across the road from the former Cumberland Pencil Mill and its famous Pencil Museum! This larger than average family home offers plenty of space for everyone to relax, a large garden, views to the surrounding fells and just a few minutes from all the town's amenities.
Captains Cottage is located in the pretty village of Pooley Bridge and offers contemporary, quality accommodation only a short walk from the shores of Ullswater.
Finished to the highest possible standard, No 1 Rose Cottage is set in the unspoilt village of Bouth just a few minutes drive from Lake Windermere in the heart of the pretty Rusland Valley. This superb romantic retreats offers is something special and offers you're the opportunity to enjoy time together and for your holiday to be as active or relaxing as you wish.
Enjoying a beautiful location overlooking the surrounding countryside in the pretty Lakeland village of Bouth, No 2 Rose Cottage is a real delight. This beautifully presented cottage offers a welcoming retreat with many period feature complemented with a contemporary finish. For those seeking peace and quite, quality and privacy, No2 Rose Cottages is an excellent choice at any time of the year.
Highbank is a well presented, larger than average, Victorian terrace house just five minutes' walk from the popular restaurants, cafes, bars and shops in the village of Bowness and less than ten minutes' walk from the shores of Lake Windermere. This excellent family friendly property is just the ideal base for an excellent family holiday or a getaway with friends.
Hedgehog Hideaway is a beautifully presented cottage of incredible character and quality. Lindale village is perfectly located for exploring the Lake District and taking advantage of the wonderful nearby village of Cartmel and the incredible foodie destinations.
Set in a secluded location looking out across the Rusland Valley, The Lodge is a contemporary romantic retreat to relax and unwind and enjoy each other's company. Presented to a very high standard this cosy hideaway offers quality accommodation and not only benefits from lovely views, it is complemented by a hot tub and elevated patio where you can sit, with a glass of wine and enjoy the beautiful views across this pretty and tranquil area of the Lake District
Originally built for the local gamekeeper, Low Dog Kennel Cottage offers a wonderful blend of charm and character alongside stylish and contemporary living. Enjoy the walk through the open countryside to the neighbouring village of Cartmel with its historic 12th Century priory and a great range of village pubs and popular eateries including the acclaimed Michelin Star restaurant, L'Enclume; artesian local shops including the famous Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding Shop and
A few minutes' drive or a delightful walk from the shores of Ullswater, in the pretty village of Dacre, Boxtree is a beautifully restored, two bedroom, 18th century farmer's cottage. This delightful cottage is packed full of quality, charm and character.
Bellflower Cottage appears, from the outside, to be a typical, Victorian end of terrace house but step inside and you will be instantly taken aback by the cool and contemporary makeover the owners have created. Here old and new blend effortlessly to create a fantastic cottage offering the ideal place to relax with family and friends, situated within easy walking distance of Windermere village.
Nestled between the hills of the Kentmere Valley, One Long Houses, commands some of the best views in the area. The eighteenth century farmhouse has been lovingly restored and opened into the adjoining barn to create one of the most impressive properties in the area. Finished to the highest standard with exacting attention to detail the current owners have created the prefect holiday retreat for friends and families.
Dorothy's Place is the most charming apartment set high above Bowness on Windermere with uninterrupted views of Lake Windermere from its extensive landscaped Gardens. Built in the early 1800's Dorothy's Place is nestled amongst this historic building which exudes rich features and one of the areas most iconic private houses.
The northern tip of Bassenthwaite, just ten minutes' drive from Keswick is a haven of peace and quiet and this lovely location is shared by Barn Cottage, the Bassenthwaite Ospreys and the Lakes Distillery.
Camellia Cottage is a picture perfect Lakeland Cottage, set in the quite hamlet of Crook just a few minutes' drive from the shores of Lake Windermere and within relatively easy reach of the Central Lakes. The Cottage is an ideal place to relax or engage in a wide range of activities. You may want to sail on the lakes, play golf (a 13 hole course is available in the village and two 18 hole courses are nearby), fish, cycle or simply walk from the door or on accessible Lakeland fells. The range of activities, together with access to great places to eat and drink make Camellia Cottage a prefect Lakeland retreat.
Hill Cottage is located on one of the quaintest parts of Ambleside perched above the town looking over the lake and surrounding fells.
In many ways, visiting the Lake District is like reconnecting with nature, the land and about rediscovering all that it is to be at one with it. Switch off your mobile phone, put down your car keys and revel in the simple things life has to offer.
And little brings you closer to nature than making an alliance with one of its most majestic and graceful creatures, the horse. Exploring the waters and landscapes of the Lake District on horseback is uplifting and inspiring.
Lakelovers cottages make for the perfect base for horse riding breaks in the Lake District. We have around 500 luxurious holiday cottages scattered in and around the most popular destinations in the region and so finding one within close proximity to a good equestrian centre is simple.
Each cottage is handpicked for you and all have been awarded 3 to 5 stars by VisitEngland. They are all unique and whether you are travelling in a small, intimate group, with family or a large group, we have just the place for you.
So, don your jodhpurs and saddle up, as we take a look at some of the options for a memorable Lake District horse riding holiday.
No matter what your level of experience, Lakeland Pony Treks have a ride that is suitable for you. Based at Limefitt Park, just off the A592 near Troutbeck and set amongst beautiful scenery, this centre is a great option for families.
The Lead Rein Ride is good for complete beginners, young riders and those who are nervous about taking to the saddle. Experienced staff ride alongside you to ensure that you are comfortable and have a great time as you gently meander through the surrounding countryside.
There are also rides for intermediates with some confidence and experience, but for the more adventurous, maybe the Two Hour Fell Ride is the one to consider.
On this trek you walk, trot and canter up the famous Garburn Pass towards Kentmere, before heading across Applethwaite Common, taking in Dubbs Reservoir and then returning to the centre via a picturesque wooded area.
At Old Hutton near Kendal, you will find Holmescales Riding Centre, who offer a comprehensive service that includes treks for novices and intermediate riders, hacks for the more experienced and rides for groups of mixed abilities.
An impressive stable is home to many beautiful ponies and horses and you are able to select one that you think best matches your experience and the type of ride you wish to sign up for, thus giving the service an element of the bespoke.
Holmescales also have livery stables and so should you want to keep your horse with them, on a full or part of the time basis, you can.
Riding for all Abilities
Just to the north of Ullswater, west of the A5091, the Rookin House Equestrian and Activity Centre, which offers a range of activities; quad biking, archery, shooting and of course horse riding and trekking.
Established 25 years ago Rookin House is affiliated with the Pony Club and is ABRS approved. Their services cater for all abilities including riding lessons in a large indoor school, birthday pony parties and trekking.
Take in the stunning views of the Ullswater and Matterdale Valleys as you wind your way through the northern landscapes of the Lake District on one of the numerous routes mapped out around the centre.
Experienced riders are in for a real treat if they decide to pay a visit to Black Horses, situated to the north of Cartmel on Aynsome Lane.
Here, Greenbank Farm breed, train and work the impressive Friesian horses. Famous for being black, powerful and elegant, this breed has been on the brink of extinction more than once, but now, thanks to the likes of Greenbank, they are in the ascendancy.
The farm doesn’t see itself as a riding centre, but run “Experience Days” during which you can ride a Friesian in one of several scenarios.
Enjoy a quiet hack through the historic village of Cartmel or along local bridleways with views of Cartmel Valley and Morecombe Bay from the top of Hampsfell. For something more exhilarating, you can book a beach ride and enjoy galloping over the sands.
If you would rather let someone else take over the reins, Black Horses also give you the opportunity to ride in a horse drawn carriage. The Cartmel Village Ride will pick you up on your doorstep, should you be staying nearby and take you on a romantic tour of the village. Champagne, chocolates and flowers are available on request and help make the moment complete.
Based near Millom, only a short ride away from the stunning Lake District coast, Heavy Horses offer thrilling horse riding experience on a magnificent Clydesdale, Shire or Ardennes. Whether you’re an experienced rider who would love the thrill of a fast ride along the stunning nearby beaches, or if you’d like to get to know the power of these beautiful animals in a more gentle experience, you’ll enjoy a fell or farmyard trek.
Heavy Horses really know about making your experience memorable, and their champagne Carriage Driving experience is certainly one to treasure.
Horse riding holidays in the Lake District are a great way to see the surrounding area from a completely new perspective, to enjoy some fresh air and exercise and to acquire some new skills or brush up on some you may not have used for a while.
And, at the end of the day you can rest assured that you are returning to a fabulous Lakelovers Lake District holiday cottage where luxury and comfort are abound and where you can get a good night’s rest, ready for the adventures that the next day will bring.
Our experienced customer service team are on hand online, via email at enquiries@lakelovers.co.uk or on 015394 88855, to give advice and recommendations on booking a Lake District activity.