Ride out adults & kids?

TinaOT

Would anyone know where it is possible to go for a ride out which caters for a group with both adults & kids? I'm looking in the Wicklow/Dublin/Wexford region - just a happy hack out. The kids are young but have been riding - confident trotters! Any ideas? thanks!

byhookorbycrook

On your own or others horses/ponies?

TinaOT

hi thanks for the reply - looking for a riding school or somewhere specialising in treks/ ride outs using their ponies/horses. so far everywhere i've called only take adults & one which i thought took kids - glendalough - no longer do treks.

convert

What about Abbeyfield near Clane in County Kildare or Doyle's Equestrian Centre near Rathvilly, County Carlow? A bit further afield than you were looking for, but definitely do treks.

byhookorbycrook

http://www.aire.ie/index.php?option=com_k2&view=itemlist&task=tag&tag=Trekking/Trail riding&Itemid=212

List of AIRE places that might be of use. I have brought my godchildren to Borris House in Carlow,fantastic place and good horses.
ww.equinetrails.ie
Both of the girls had a ball but would be able to canter and jump .

light21

Hiya TinaOT
If you look at www.belmountequestrian.com they do great through Camolin forest. I know the two girls running the riding school and they cater for both adults and kids to trek together. The centre is based 10 min from Gorey Wexford. Give them a call, im sure they wou.ld be glad to help, hope this helps

TinaOT

thanks a mil for all the help will check out all your suggestions. on the one hand i can understand the reluctance to allow kids out on ride outs - it can be hard enough when a group of adults turn up expecting to gallop off into the sunset but on the other side i think its a great experience for kids & as a family activity. will let you know how we get on!

godanicus

Hi guys, im sorry but if someone could help me out it would be great.
I have completed my bhs 1+2, road safety, and various bits and bobs along the way, worked in yards both race and sport and have a decent understanding of horses and was wondering if it is worth getting an animal of my own. I love horses but am a little worried about the expense and facilities around carlow. I dont want to go to riding schools and pay 30-40 per hr, i would love my own horse to go and form a bond with and practise together as a team with an eye to maybe hunt and whatever else i can do.
I am well able to ride and look after a horse, done it enough for other ppl , but would need any advice you can give on starting out.

I know the basic expense of horse, tack, clothing, feeding, transport, vet, farrier, dentist, but trying to decide weather to put my horse into a riding school in livery with riding facilities, or rent grazing locally and get permission to ride out on land. Any advice with regards to the latter would be greatly appreciated. P.s Im not minted or loaded just an average person trying to weigh up all options.

fits

I kept a horse on livery for a few months and I have to say it didnt really work for me. It is a good idea to have the support of a yard when you're a first time owner though. I now keep mine at home on 24/7 turnout year round and find it brilliant. I have no stabling which is awkward at times but I still think I'd keep them turned out except for when they're cleaned up for occasions anyway.
You'll probably need to try a few things before you figure out what suits you.

The most important thing though, is to get the right animal. Most first time buyers make a mistake and dont buy a suitable animal. Please dont take this the wrong way, but try not to buy on the basis of looks or flashiness or breeding. Moreso on what the horse is done and temperament. Get the horse vetted (five stage) before you part with any cash. I wouldnt really recommend buying at a sales at this stage either.

Whereabouts in Carlow are you?

A friend of mine acts as an agent and is excellent at matching riders of all abilities and budgets with lovely animals, so if you want her details, pm me.

godanicus

Hi, im in carlow town but travelling isnt a problem. Might look for a sharing arrangement in livery. Anyone out there interested in that. It seems to be an easy way to share the expense too, im flexible with days, just a thought.

granturismo

TinaOT wrote: »

thanks a mil for all the help will check out all your suggestions. !

Back on topic - If you do get a good hack out for the family in the East or S East, can you let us know. I'm in a similar situation and would like to do same. We tried Athlone EC last year and had a great ride out.

marley123

Hi There,

Killegar in Enniskerry may be worth a call - they seem to be very flexible re Kids & Adults.