WILLOW FARM XMAS HACK

We had a fantastic time on our Xmas hack and thanks to all who took part for making it such fun !!!

Hacking Out from Willow Farm

The beautiful countryside and quiet country lanes surrounding Willow Farm make it a perfect base for some excellent hacks. Close by we have orchards, woods and pasture land to gaze at and ride across ……. once you are out and about in the area it is hard to believe we are so close to the M2. We offer various levels of hacking throughout the year, to suit riders of most abilities. As our horses are not trained trekking horses, and can be quite spirited, it is important that new riders have a 30 minute assessment lesson before their hack, to ensure their capability and therefore safety and also brush up on any 'issues'.

What's on Offer?

Sedate Hack: 1 hour. Out and about on the lanes and perhaps fields in the local area. For novice riders who can benefit from finding out how different hacking is from riding in the indoor school.

Walk and Trot Hack: 1 hour. Similar to the sedate hack, with a little more trotting! Great for riders who have had a long break from the sport and need to get fit again. Also enjoyed by riders who are not quite ready or able to canter - but want to get out and about and start working towards the faster hacks.

Canter Hack: 1 hour. Leaving the Willow Farm driveway, we usually head straight out onto the field opposite. Our horses and ponies are keen to go and there is plenty of space and opportunity for cantering, interspersed with spells on the local lanes adjoining the orchards.

Woods Hack: 1 ½ hours. An exciting ride, on a demanding bridleway, cantering through the woods - obviously! Riders will need a good degree of balance and ability, as the path bends from left to right and may be overhung by foliage in some areas. A great challenge and lots of fun. Usually followed by a long canter along a more orderly bridleway, this is a very popular ride.

Fast Hack: 2 hours. Make your way out to the huge pastureland of the Belmont Estate, then gallop flat out! Always a fun ride, obviously for experienced riders only as the horses and ponies often get very excited.

Safety: Members of staff supervise all our hacks; they are there to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Our horses are well schooled, but staff know them best, so please listen to the advice you are given. The horses are trained to listen to squeeze and release pressure on the reins and it is important that you ride them in this manner.

If you have any doubts - why not book a couple of lessons to brush up on your signals!