THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Ride through the serene countryside of Northern Ireland’s Faughan Valley on horseback with City of Derry Farm & Equestrian Centre. Confident riders aged 12+ can trot and canter along quiet lanes and farmland, soaking in panoramic views of Derry and the Sperrin foothills.
Ride through the serene countryside of Northern Ireland’s Faughan Valley on horseback with City of Derry Farm & Equestrian Centre. Confident riders aged 12+ can trot and canter along quiet lanes and farmland, soaking in panoramic views of Derry and the Sperrin foothills.
Book with City of Derry Farm & Equestrian Centre
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by City of Derry Farm & Equestrian Centre · Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Set against the rolling hills and quiet country lanes of Northern Ireland’s Faughan Valley, the Advanced Trail Ride offered by City of Derry Farm & Equestrian Centre delivers a distinctive horseback adventure for confident riders aged 12 and up. Located in Londonderry, this unique experience invites riders who are comfortable with English tack to trot and canter along scenic trails weaving through 30 acres of farmland and leafy lanes. The surrounding landscape provides sweeping views of Derry and Donegal, framed by the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains, a lesser-known but strikingly beautiful region offering a fresh alternative to more frequented Irish outdoor escapes.
This ride is tailored specifically for those with prior riding skills, ensuring participants can move fluidly alongside their mounts as they navigate a mix of country roads and lanes. A brief assessment in the indoor arena gauges each rider’s comfort level, making safety and enjoyment a priority. With a maximum of four riders per guide, the small group size enhances the personalized experience, allowing for hands-on instruction and a deeper connection to both horse and landscape.
What sets this ride apart is not only the opportunity to engage actively with the horses but also the chance to absorb Northern Ireland’s countryside away from urban bustle. The Faughan Valley’s quiet charm is punctuated by traditional stone walls, native flora like hawthorn and gorse, and the occasional birdcall. Local history hints at the rural heritage that shaped the area, where agriculture and equestrian culture remain vital parts of community life.
City of Derry Farm & Equestrian Centre holds a respected place within the region’s outdoor recreation scene by fostering responsible riding practices and sustainable land use. Their focus on technical skill development combined with immersive nature experience makes this trail ride a compelling choice for those seeking a grounded, active adventure in Northern Ireland’s scenic backdrop.
challenging.
1.5 hours.
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness and be comfortable trotting and cantering for sustained periods.
Yes, this ride is designed for confident riders aged 12 and over who are comfortable with English tack and can post to the trot and canter.
Wear long trousers, closed-toe boots with a flat heel, and bring a waterproof jacket to accommodate changing weather.
Yes, riding hats are provided, but you may bring your own helmet if it meets current safety standards.
Groups are limited to a maximum of four riders per guide to ensure a personalized and safe experience.
Meet at City of Derry Equestrian Centre, 30 Bigwood Road, Ardmore, Derry-Londonderry, BT47 3RP.
Rides may be adjusted or rescheduled for safety reasons. Be prepared with waterproof clothing just in case.
The Faughan Valley area retains deep agricultural roots with horse riding playing an integral role in local traditions over centuries.
City of Derry Farm emphasizes responsible horse riding practices to minimize trail erosion and protect native vegetation in the valley.
City of Derry Farm & Equestrian Centre is a working farm and equestrian centre based in Londonderry, Northern Ireland. The centre offers a variety of horse-based experiences and farm activities set on the scenic Faughan Valley and the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. Guests can choose private mindful sessions, beginner and advanced trail rides, half-day historical rides, and family farm immersion across 30 acres of countryside. A 4th generation farmer, Pauline, and her team welcome visitors for guided encounters with horses, sheep and pygmy goats, combining hands-on animal interaction with riding and nature walks. Experiences include a two-hour private 'Stillness in Motion' mindful walk with horses, half-day rides like Roseann's historical trail, group farm programmes that explore local heritage, and beginner to advanced trail rides suitable for different ability levels. Safety and rider suitability are assessed before rides; age guidelines are provided for each activity (beginners typically from age 9, some rides from age 12 and up). The centre offers private and group formats to suit families, learners and experienced riders, with experienced facilitators and instructors guiding sessions. Located near Faughan Valley lanes, the centre provides authentic Irish country experiences that combine equestrian skill, local history and relaxed farm life.
Book with City of Derry Farm & Equestrian Centre