Ullswater Saddleback Horse Trails

Riders with their own horses can access the Northern Lake District through Ullswater Saddleback Horse Trails, a BHS-approved centre based just outside Penrith. The school specialises in guided trail rides rather than lessons, working with experienced riders who want to explore fell and lakeshore routes under local supervision. Horse holiday packages combine several days of riding with on-site accommodation, giving visitors a chance to cover more ground than a day trip allows.

The centre caters exclusively to adults, which keeps group sizes focused and routes suited to confident riders. Disciplines on offer are hacking and trail riding, with routes planned around the terrain around Ullswater and the surrounding fells. Riders bring their own horses, and the team provides the guiding and route knowledge rather than schooled mounts. Anyone looking for beginner lessons or pony rides will need to look elsewhere.

Facilities are set up with the visiting horse owner in mind. There are paddocks for turnout, parking for horseboxes and trailers, and two self-catering cottages that can be booked as part of a riding package. There is no stabling on site, so horses stay in the paddocks or in the horsebox overnight. The setting is rural, with direct access onto open countryside, and the cottages give guests a base within easy reach of Penrith and the lakeshore.

Ullswater Saddleback holds a place on the British Horse Society approved register, and the site carries the BHS Horses Welcome accreditation, a scheme that recognises venues set up to receive riders and their horses. The postcode for satnav is CA10 2NG. Enquiries about guided trail rides, holiday packages, cottage bookings or paddock availability should go directly to the school via its website or phone line.