RIDING ACTIVITIES
Book A Ride
What could be better than a visit to Exmoor that includes riding one of our iconic rare breed native Exmoor Ponies. Our Centre offers many riding possibilities for all abilities. We will do our very best to make sure you have an experience to remember.
All sessions must be booked in advance by calling 01398 323093. Please note: riding activities are not available during our closed winter season. Activities resume in Spring 2024.
In order to choose a suitable pony you will be asked for the rider's age, weight and height.
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Advance Booking Essential: To avoid disappointment, we recommend early booking due to their popularity, especially during holiday periods.
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Riding hats are provided. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear.
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Please note that all rides must be pre-booked
We carry full insurance and are licensed by Somerset Council - License No. LN/0002199.
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Trek The Moor
Enjoy the feeling of freedom riding one of our special ponies on the moor. 11 years and above, for experienced riders able to walk, trot and canter independently. Find out more below.
Group Fun
If there is a group of you who would like to ride, this is the session for you. No riding experience is needed. Find out more below.
Walk & Trot
The Lanes
Enjoy a ride around the lanes near the Pony Centre. Suitable for ages 8 years and above, and competent at walk and trot independently. Find out more below.
Taster Sessions
If you have little or no riding experience, our 'Taster Sessions' are ideal. Suitable for both children and adults it is tailored to your individual requirements. During a session you will learn more about this special native pony, pony handling and care and have hands on experience grooming and tacking the pony. The highlight of the session is the chance to ride in a comfortable and controlled environment in our indoor arena. A memory that will stay with you for a long while.
Suitability:
For all abilities and ages from 4 years upward. Previous riders have ranged in age from 4 to 78 years!
Cost for 1 hour session: £35 for one or two participants with one pony.
Cost for 40 minute session: for 4 and 5 year olds £25 for 1 or 2 children with one pony.
Trekking
Ask any Exmoor pony enthusiast what they would most like to do, and almost everyone without exception will tell you that they would love to ride an Exmoor on it's native Exmoor soil. Enjoy the feeling of freedom riding our special ponies on the windswept moor where you could glimpse wild ponies and wildlife. An Exmoor Experience Trek may take in a walk into the river at the ancient Tarr Steps, or the spectacular views over the Punch Bowl, and almost always an encounter with the curious Caractacus Stone! Winsford Hill, where we are located, is the home of the largest free-living herd of Exmoor ponies.
Our ponies are very well schooled and responsive. Your comfort and safety is paramount, you will be questioned about your riding ability when booking, in order to ensure that you are matched up to a suitable pony.
Suitability: Experienced riders aged 11 and above.
Must be competent to trot and canter independently in open spaces. There is a weight limit of 11 stone.
Group Fun
If you do not want an individual riding session our Group Fun sessions are just the thing. You will be able to get to know your pony before going for a ride around the beautiful surroundings of our Centre. The sessions last 1 hour, and each participant must be accompanied by an adult to help lead their pony.
Suitability: For beginners/novices aged 4 years and above. There is a weight limit of 11st
Cost: £30 per person.
Ride Around The Lanes
For the more experienced rider what could be nicer than a lovely ride around the lanes near the Pony Centre. Beautiful scenery and a chance to spot some free living Exmoor Ponies and deer. The session lasts 1 hour.
Suitability: Must be competent at walk and trot independently. Minimum age 8 years.
There is a weight limit of 11st.
Cost: £40 per person.