In today’s modern world of globalisation, technology and the 24 hour news cycle, we’re all looking for a bit of escapism now and then. CS Lewis, the creator of the Narnia series of books, had this in mind when he wrote the much-loved adventure stories that feature characters from our world crossing the boundary into the magical realm of Narnia. A mediaeval land of castles, forests and fantastic beasts, some of the most important being the horses. Lewis was born in Belfast and took his inspiration from the landscape of Northern Ireland, and if you’re in this city then getting away from it all can be as easy as stepping into a wardrobe and into an adventure. The mountains of Narnia are yours to explore, and with a noble horse as your companion is the best way to do it.

The capital city straddles County Antrim and County Down and is within easy reach of all kinds of stunning scenery on horseback. There are mountains to the North and South, and the coast of Belfast Lough and the Irish Sea to the East. The region outside the city is a rural, lightly populated land, with farms, hills and woods broken up by occasional towns and villages. These are the perfect surroundings for horse riding, as well as lessons, and relaxing days at the stables.

Where to travel from Belfast to go horseback riding?

You don’t need to go far from the Northern Irish capital to live out an equestrian fantasy. Around the neighbouring town of Lisburn you’ll find a number of well kitted out stables who welcome visitors for horse riding experiences, while continuing to the South it’s not long before the Mourne Mountains rise into view, where you can experience some of the best horse trekking around. In the other direction you can meet some wonderful ponies and horses for party or trail riding experiences near Ballyclare and there’s a complete offering of equestrian experiences in Ballymoney, just an hours’ drive away.

Another fantasy owes much of its inspiration to Northern Ireland, as this part of the country was the filming location for many parts of the Game of Thrones TV series. You can easily get to some of these real life Westeros locations from Belfast, including Slemish Mountain close to Ballyclare and Tollymore Forest near Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains. Many beauty spots in the North Coast were also used, and a longer horse ride from Ballymoney could take you to this wild shoreline.

What kind of equestrian experiences can you find?

• Trail riding: To really get to know the beautiful surroundings of Belfast, we recommend going on a ride across the landscape. Off-road trails, great views and fresh air await you whether you choose to traverse the hills or gallop along the beaches. This is also a wonderful way to get to know your horse. The relationship between the horse and rider is crucial to a successful ride, and by spending time together in the natural environment you’re bound to feel a connection in no time. And the more time you spend, the more rewarding the experience becomes, so you’ll be happy to hear that you can take part in multi-day and even week-long horse riding holidays here.

• Hacks: A hack is a short ride, usually between 30 minutes and two hours, which is as important for the horse as it is for you. Horses are athletic animals and to stay in good shape they need to exercise regularly, and hacking is the best to do so. If you go hacking outside the city you’ll take the horse on a variety of different kinds of path, including steep or uneven tracks, at a variety of paces that will be an exhilarating experience for both.

• Lessons: Horse trekking and especially hacking can be challenging experiences and in many cases aren’t suitable for novices. In order to take part, some equestrian education is necessary and the stables around are great places to do this. Set in picturesque countryside, they cater to all ages and abilities with experienced instructors and, most importantly, patient horses.

• Parties: Many children have an instinctive love for these gentle animals so why not give your son or daughter an unforgettable treat for their birthday? You can organise a pony party at stables near for a group of kids which will include some instruction and riding alongside games and some of the day-to-day tasks of stable life. We’re sure that your child will have a wonderful time with their friends - both human and horse.

• Therapy: Horses are naturally social animals that live in groups based on communication and respect, and they bring these qualities to their relationships with humans. The practice of horse therapy is becoming more established around the world and there are several practitioners within easy reach who give people the opportunity to reconnect with themselves in a wordless, stress free interaction with specially chosen horses.

Options to organize this activity

We understand that some people won’t have the time for it, but the option that grabs our attention most is a week-long riding holiday. Imagine spending your days in the saddles and nights in local accommodation as you explore the areas around Belfast and create a strong friendship with your horse! There are shorter treks on offer too, a couple of days, a single day or a few hours, so there’s no excuse to miss this opportunity. Hacking is a shorter experience too, rarely lasting more than 2 hours.

If you’re going to take lessons on horseback, they usually last between 1 and 2 hours, and after a couple of sessions you feel much more comfortable in the saddle. On the other hand, a party with ponies can be a full day treat for your child and their friends, or if you prefer you can organise it by the hour.

You don’t have to go far, or spend much, to live out your fantasies. The animals are waiting, and so are we! Make a booking today.