Horse riding in Wiltshire can be both a pleasure and a challenge. What better way to unwind than by enjoying the beautiful Wiltshire countryside on horseback.

Wiltshire is primarily a rural area and as such is well suited with an accessible extensive network of well maintained bridleways throughout the county.

There is a good choice of riding establishments throughout Wiltshire and if you are new to riding then you will be able to find qualified instructors to help you. It is essential to use qualified instructors from day one as you may find that you develop poor riding habits which will take a lifetime to undo.

Riding for the Disabled Association is a voluntary organisation and there are several groups in the county. For further information and details go to the website address www.riding-for-the-disabled.org.uk

For a day out there are equestrian events for all to enjoy from Horse Trials to Horse Racing.

Amongst some of the most popular annual summer Horse Trial events in the county are the Wilton Horse Trials, held in the grounds of the ancestral home of the Earl of Pembroke just outside Salisbury, the Barbury Castle Horse Trials on the Marlborough Downs and Longleat Horse Trials held in the grounds of Longleat near Warminster.

Why not enjoy a day out at the Salisbury racecourse, one of the oldest flat-racing courses in England dating back to the 16th century. The course is set on the rolling hills with splendid views overlooking the medieval city of Salisbury and its magnificent cathedral spire. The course was voted the Best Small Racecourse in the Southwest in 2002 and race meetings held throughout the summer.

There are also regular point to point racing fixtures held at the Larkhill course, close to Stonehenge, and at the Barbury racecourse just outside Marlborough.

Last but not least there are a small but growing band of enthusiastic carriage drivers who arrange events and drives in the county. Carriage driving is an exciting and challenging sport. One such club, The White Horse Harness club (website www.whitehorseharness.co.uk), organise Indoor Horse Driving Trials through the winter at the Cholderton Equestrian Centre and full one and two day outdoor events in the summer, latterly in the Marlborough area.

So whether you are a spectator or enthusiastic participant Horse Riding in Wiltshire has plenty to offer.

Horse Riding in Wiltshire