Is the carriage ride shared with other groups?

No, each carriage is private and reserved exclusively for your group up to 6 passengers.

Can we meet and interact with the horses?

Yes, guests are encouraged to meet their horse companions and even enjoy enhanced VIP time with them.

Are tours available in inclement weather?

The carriage features a convertible roof to keep guests comfortable rain or shine.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Absolutely, families with children of all ages can enjoy the ride and horse interactions.

Where does the tour depart from?

All tours depart from the corner of Belleville and Menzies Streets in Victoria.

Are there any accessibility considerations?

Guests must be able to transfer into the carriage via a single step; please assess your mobility beforehand.

Holiday Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride Through Victoria’s Festive James Bay | History Tour

As winter wraps Victoria, British Columbia, in a gentle chill, the historic neighborhood of James Bay transforms into a glowing holiday haven. "Jingle all the Way! 60 minute tour" by Tally-Ho Carriage Tours invites travelers to step back in time and experience the city’s festive spirit aboard a horse-drawn carriage. This cozy, hour-long ride blends Victorian charm, local heritage, and seasonal magic on every turn.

Starting from the corner of Belleville and Menzies Streets, the tour meanders through the decorated streets of James Bay, the serene paths of Beacon Hill Park, and along the shimmering Salish Sea coastline. The streets are beautifully dressed with twinkling lights, and with horses jingling authentic sleigh bells, guests feel immersed in a memorable holiday tableau. These horses, cherished icons of Victoria now considered "at risk," offer a unique, personal connection—guides encourage visitors to meet and interact with the animals, the heart of this experience.

Beyond the festive decorations, the tour is built around rich storytelling. Tally-Ho guides share local history, from the establishment of the tours in 1903 by Victoria’s Tourist Association to the special care that keeps this family-run tradition running for over 40 years. Insights into the horses’ heritage and the evolving cityscape bring historical significance to life, making this more than a carriage ride—it’s a journey through time.

Designed for all ages, the tour welcomes families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Guests snuggle under warm faux-fur blankets, listen to holiday carols, and enjoy the comfort of a convertible roof for all-weather readiness. Evenings glow softly with lanterns attached to the carriages, enhancing the cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Tally-Ho sets itself apart as a sustainable, locally passionate business. Committed to animal welfare and environmental stewardship, they maintain safe, humane conditions for their horses and prioritize routes that respect neighborhood tranquility. For visitors staying in Victoria, James Bay provides an ideal base nearby, with easy access to accommodations and restaurants.

Add an exclusive VIP upgrade to spend extra one-on-one time with the horses after your ride or pick up unique keepsakes like plush Clydesdale horses or horseshoes to hold onto your memory. Whether you’re a history buff, holiday enthusiast, or nature lover, Tally-Ho Carriage Tours delivers an enchanting seasonal experience that captures the warm heart of Victoria’s winter nights.

About Tally-Ho Carriage Tours

Tally-Ho Carriage Tours is a family-run carriage company based in Saanichton, British Columbia, offering horse-drawn tours that showcase Victoria and nearby James Bay and Beacon Hill Park. The company operates historic horse-drawn carriages led by knowledgeable, friendly guides who share local history, folklore, and architectural highlights throughout each route. Tally-Ho’s experiences include short rides and extended guided tours, seasonal holiday trips, and specialty offerings such as haunted Halloween and Christmas light excursions.

Tours depart from Saanichton with routes that travel along the Salish Sea waterfront, through Beacon Hill Park’s gardens and ponds, and into the historic streets of James Bay. Guests connect with the company’s beloved Tally-Ho horses during boarding and while enjoying comfortable, narrated rides that emphasize safety, heritage, and accessibility. Each carriage experience blends scenic viewing with storytelling, offering both visitors and local residents an engaging way to explore Victoria’s cultural landmarks.

Tally-Ho Carriage Tours emphasizes respect for animal welfare and traditional carriage practices, maintaining a visible relationship between guides, horses, and passengers. The business presents a range of tour lengths—from short, family-friendly rides to personalized premier tours—making it suitable for first-time visitors, families, and special occasions. Seasonal performances such as “Caroling in the Country!” and “Jingle All the Way” celebrate local holiday decorations and community spirit. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Tally-Ho offers authentic, memorable carriage experiences rooted in regional history and living heritage.

These carriage tours appeal to visitors seeking local history, scenic Salish Sea waterfront views, and relaxed, accessible travel behind well-cared-for horses for groups.