Swap four wheels for four legs and explore the South Downs on horseback to really get in touch with the natural wonders here. Hacking happily across the chalk downlands is one of the most relaxing ways to take it all in, even after rainfall when it's not your feet that will be getting muddy.
Top stables in the South Downs National Park include
3 Greys and
Happy Valley. Catering for all levels, nearly all hacks on the Downs are escorted and can accommodate novice or experienced riders. There are many different rides, so you can try a different one every day if you like and, in general, roadwork is kept to the very minimum. Which isn’t difficult, given the vast array of bridleways. Stables are very children friendly too, offering lessons, or just taking tinies out on short off road pony rides, led by a rein. And what a place to remember your first time on a horse.
At the other end of the spectrum, some horse riding companies offer pub hacks, tying your horse up at the local hostelry before going into sample a local ale. Most stables will offer birthday parties for children, but we are liking this pub hack idea for grown up birthday parties too.
