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The top 11 horse riding experiences in Ireland
Try your hand at horseback riding across the country.
Enjoy an exciting horse riding adventure whatever the weather and experience the best of the Irish landscape from a whole new vantage point. Gallop across sandy beaches, trek through the mountains and feel the wind blow through your hair.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or completely new to the experience, all of these horse riding stables can cater to you.

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1Island View Stables, Co Sligo

Take a trek across miles of sandy beaches, moorlands and the Island View Stable’s private land in Sligo. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Donegal Bay, 50 horses and ponies enjoy living in the fields between Benbulben and the sea. Enjoy a fresh canter, a leisurely stroll or even a splash in the sea with these amazing creatures.

Three women riding horses on the beach in Sligo.
Trek across the beaches of Sligo with Mountain View Stables.
2Go Trekking, Co Mayo

Near Croagh Patrick and the beautiful Clew Bay in Mayo is where you’ll find Go Trekking. Just a short walk from Westport Quay, this trekking company specialises in beach excursions on Murrisk and Beartra, as well as woodland and mountain trips, which last up to four hours. 

Their horses are well-trained with pleasant temperaments and enjoy the gallops as much as the riders do.

3Killarney Riding Stables, Co Kerry

Originally established by Donie O'Sullivan in the late 1960s, today Killarney Riding Stables remains a family affair and is run by Donie, his wife Noreen and their son and daughters. 

Close to Killarney town and Killarney National Park, the area is a joy to explore on horseback. Spend a blissful afternoon in Kerry on a gentle walk or a lively canter through lush parks and leafy woodlands.

Group riding horses through Killarney in winter.
Take in Killarney on horseback.
4Dingle Horse Riding, Co. Kerry

Built in the hills overlooking the Dingle harbour, Dingle Horse Riding is just 2km from the centre of town. Their horses have been chosen for their temperament and suitability for all types of rider.

Guides at this establishment are well-experienced and happy to help riders pick the best option for them. From introductory horse riding lessons to challenging rides in the open countryside of the Dingle Peninsula, you have plenty of choice here.

5An Sibin Equestrian Centre, Co Clare

With a backdrop formed by the rolling hills of Slieve Aughty, An Sibin Equestrian Centre is a perfect place for visitors to get away from it all. Breathe in the fresh country air as you wind your way down quiet country roads on horseback and take in the natural beauty of The Burren

Passing by many miles of heather-laden bogland you can finish the journey in the Sibin, a restored 300-year-old farmhouse with a home-cooked dinner in front of an open turf fire.

Group riding horses through a field of flowers.
Visit An Sibin Equestrian Centre for a rustic break away.
6Ashtown Stables, Co Dublin

Go horse riding in Dublin, just 20 minutes from the city centre. Found beside the iconic Phoenix Park, Ashtown Stables are easily accessible for visitors. During your ride, pass by the Irish President’s official residence Áras an Uachtaráin and admire the natural landscape of this much-loved public park. 

Keep a lookout for the herds of fallow deer as well as the flora and fauna as you trot through the lush green land. Time your visit around the Dublin Horse Show and enjoy an incredible day out in the capital. 

7Castle Leslie Equestrian Centre, Co Monaghan

Known as one of Europe’s finest equestrian playgrounds, Castle Leslie Equestrian Centre is located on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside. This area is dotted with ancient woodlands and calm lakes. 

Discover the thrill of exploring the landscape on horseback. Riders of all abilities are welcomed here whether you’re looking for an exhilarating cross-country ride or a gentle hack.

Horses at Castle Leslie Estate.
Say hi to the horses at Castle Leslie.
8Mount Juliet Equestrian Centre, Co Kilkenny

Head to Thomastown to Mount Juliet Equestrian Centre where the ultimate retreat awaits. Enjoy horse riding, cross-country trekking, tuition, and equestrian sports on their 1500-acre estate framed by rolling green hills and unspoilt land. The Mount Juliet Equestrian Centre has 16 miles of professionally planned bridleways.

Riders enjoy stunning views from the saddle while passing through mature parkland. Their cross-country course is an excellent opportunity for experienced riders to hone their technique over well-maintained rustic jumps. Take an equestrian masterclass or book in for a show jump course, catering for all levels from beginner to advanced, with schooling fences and competition courses.

Horse under a heater in stables at Mount Juliet Estate.
Visit the horses and go for a lesson at Mount Juliet Estate.
9Annaharvey Farm Equestrian Centre, Co Offaly

No matter what the weather, the staff at the Annaharvey Farm Equestrian Centre in Tullamore aim to entertain visitors who grace their gates. From show jumpers to dressage and cross-country trips, there is plenty of choice here in their indoor and outdoor arenas and large farmland area. 

Fully qualified and highly experienced instructors are eager to ensure each rider’s visit is a rewarding one, warm fires and good food await on their return from a long day in the saddle.

10Galway Racecourse, Co Galway

The highlight of the Irish horse racing calendar, The Galway Races are a must for anyone who likes a great day out. Don your Sunday best and enjoy a lively affair of racing, dining, socialising and live music. Watch as Ireland's fastest horses gallop around the famous Galway Racecourse from the lavish restaurant or mingle with the punters track-side. 

Fantastic horse racing isn't limited to the seven-day festival, there's a great schedule of events throughout summer and autumn.

Race at Galway Racecourse.
Catch a race at the Galway Racecourse.
11Leopardstown Racecourse, Co Dublin

Horse racing in Ireland doesn't get much bigger than the Leopardstown Christmas Festival, watch as majestic horses race to claim some of the biggest prizes in Irish horse racing. Enjoy live racing at the Leopardstown Racecourse and see famous horses and jockeys in action at this exciting racecourse. 

Cheer on your favourites from the grandstand and hear the roar as they cross the finish line. Book a table at the onsite restaurant or for a special event, reserve a suite and bask in the buzz of the races.

Lots more choices on the saddle

Discover the best treks and trails for horse riding that cover the length and breadth of our scenic country.

More to discover
The great outdoors8 unmissable outdoor adventures

There’s nothing quite like escaping to the great outdoors, leaving the world behind and finding a fantastic location or experience that you can’t wait to tell your friends about. You might think that you know all the hotspots in Ireland, but there’s always a secret beach or a secluded waterfall that you’ve yet to visit.

Family funExplore Ennis and the Burren car-free

There’s nowhere quite like the Burren. The swathes of grey limestone could pass for the surface of another planet, with deep fissures and crevices in-between the sheets of rock. But it’s anything but barren – rare native orchids grow in the cracks; wild goats roam the land and purple butterflies flit around the wildflowers. The best way to experience it is on a hike through the national park, and it’s easy to get there by bus from Ennis, 13km to the south. The handsome county capital is itself worth exploring, with a historic abbey, great food and even better shopping.

On the waterDiscover your new adventure in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands

Mona-Lxsa is a bit of a night owl. As a DJ and creative entrepreneur, she rarely gets the chance to go out and have an adventure during the day. She’s also not the strongest swimmer and can be a little nervous around water. But she recently headed out with two of her friends to explore Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and see first-hand how the great outdoors can be enjoyed by everyone, not just the adrenaline junkies.

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