Cornwall is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK, famous for sandy beaches, picturesque villages and wild inland areas. But it’s not just people who enjoy the scenery of the Southwest point of England, it’s also a paradise for our equestrian friends, horses. Teaming up with a pony, stallion or mare is the perfect way to discover the beautiful county's landscapes while making a connection with the magnificent beast that carries you.

Great options for all, from countryside trekking, and introductory farm based lessons, to more playful activities with horses and even the opportunity to swim off Cornwall’s coastline on the back of a horse. It doesn’t matter where you are you won’t have to go far to find the horseback riding experience for you. The best prices are yours if you know the right places to look.

Where are the best places to go horseback riding in Cornwall?

• Redruth: In the Cornish language Redruth meant red river, so called for the colour of the water that runs down from the mineral rich hills in the area. Nowadays there are many riding stables and bridleways in the countryside surrounding the town. With beautiful beaches a stone’s throw away on the North coast as well, there’s a lot to see. So why not book a residential horse riding holiday? Or if you don’t have the time, come along to enjoy a full day or hour long horseback trek or lesson. Everyone’s welcome, from beginners to advanced riders and children to adults.

• Bodmin: 80 square miles of treeless, granite wilderness lie to the Northeast of the pretty town of Bodmin, and this almost uninhabited area makes for enchanting horse riding. Setting off from a stable located on the fringe of the moor, you’ll soon lose sight of all traces of civilisation and believe that you’re riding through a mediaeval fantasy. If you prefer, you can also ride a horse down the Camel River Valley, which widens into a beautiful inlet of the Atlantic ocean. From newcomer’s taster sessions through to dressage and showjumping masterclasses, an equestrian experience is waiting for you in Bodmin to meet everyone’s needs.

• Penzance: As you approach Land’s End, the Southwesternmost point of England, you enter a land of marvels. In the Bay of Penzance, the castle of St. Michael’s Mount rises out of the water. This will be the background for an equally wonderful activity - swimming with horses. That’s right, the equestrian inhabitants of Penzance love the water and enjoy nothing more than taking the plunge with visitors. If you know how to ride a horse and you want to try something with a twist, this is a unique way of bonding with them, in which you don’t need to worry about the usual saddles, stirrups and other equipment. You can even attempt some tricks like riding standing up! For first timers, swimming with horses is the perfect introduction to the activity as the fear of falling is much lower in the water. Finally, therapeutic effects have been reported by visitors with illnesses and disabilities. This is a magical experience!

• Newquay: The most popular surf destination in the region, Newquay has a lot to offer besides water sports. Stables nearby are the perfect choice for families with young children, even 4 year olds can get in the saddle here. The local area is great for trekking, with some that allow inexperienced or nervous riders to get comfortable on a horse, while more seasoned riders can give free reign to their desires, and head for the beaches or cliffs along the coast.

• Falmouth: Known for the harbour, National Maritime Museum and surrounding beaches, Falmouth is a popular destination for visitors to this region. Within easy reach you’ll find several equestrian centres, where you can take a ride along country lanes, or take advantage of indoor riding facilities when the sun isn’t shining.

• St. Ives: A favourite for artists since the Victorian era, St. Ives is set on the North Cornwall coast between two bays. Get to know this stunning spot from the saddle with a horseback trek. Routes are available for all abilities, and you can also take lessons, or work towards a qualification in Equitation or Stable Management, among others.

• Perranporth: With an enormous expanse of golden sand, Perranporth beach is the ideal location to disconnect from the modern world. Feel the sea breeze in your hair as you trot, canter or gallop through the surf, or explore the coastline on expansive bridleway trails. Some routes will even lead you past charming country pubs, where you and your steed can stop for refreshments.

• Liskeard: The perfect combination of beautiful scenery and absence of busy roads makes equestrian centres near Liskeard an excellent place for a horseback ride. And trekking isn’t the only activity that you’ll find here. You can choose from workshops on grooming, mane plaiting and even horse-painting here! It’s an ideal option for an event, whether birthday party, stag or hen do, or anniversary celebration.

• Launceston: The gateway to historic County on the border with Devon, Launceston has been a preferred horse riding destination for decades. Holiday stays in quaint cottages, classes for children and adults and a cross country race course complete with jumps and obstacles are waiting for you here!

How long does an experience last?

- The only factor in determining the length of a horse ride is your preference. The equestrian centres in Cornwall are set in stunning landscapes, so you don't need to go far to enjoy hills, woodland, or coastal views. The traditional ride is known as a “hack”, a ride intended for enjoyment and to exercise the horse, and these usually last an hour or two, covering between 5 and 10 miles. On the other hand, multiple day treks are also available for veteran jockeys, and these can include a variety of terrain and path-type, to help you develop your riding style. Multiple day riding holidays are also an option with on-site accommodation.

- If what you’re looking for is a lesson, you’ve also got a lot to choose from. Taster sessions for children and beginners can be as short as half an hour, while teens or adults can spend a couple of hours or half a day to really develop their technique. Courses that lead to qualifications usually take place over several days, staying at the stables is often possible

Requirements to do this activity

You don’t need to be a veteran horseman or woman in order to enjoy this human-animal harmony. Even if you’ve never seen a horse with your own eyes before, you’ll be able to meet, get to know and ride one here. That goes for children as well, with equestrian centres catering to young riders, in some cases as young as 4 years old. Of course, small children can’t ride large adult horses, but they’ll be delighted to know that an adorable pony will be their steed. The upper end of the scale is determined by weight. 13.5 - 14 stone is usually the upper limit for getting on a horse, but contact the stables to find out more as they might have the right horse for you.

Some stables here are also making equestrian experiences as accessible as possible, with options available for those with disabilities or special needs. Horses are known to do wonders for those who face challenges in their lives, providing stress relief and companionship.

Making a group booking for an equestrian adventure is sure to leave you with life-long memories. Look no further than a horse trekking scene for you birthday, stag or hen party, company away day or any other special occasion. You’re in for a treat.

Well, there you have all the information necessary to do this activity, don’t miss your chance this year. Start planning your fairytale experience now!