Ride deep into the New Forest’s heart on a 4-hour horseback trek with Coombe Stables. Enjoy a scenic ride, a gourmet picnic, and the chance to spot wild ponies in this classic English woodland adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness is sufficient; riders should be comfortable sitting on horseback for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The New Forest was designated a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror in 1079, shaping centuries of land use and conservation that continue today.
Conservation
Managed by the Forestry Commission and the Verderers, the New Forest balances public access with habitat protection to sustain its unique ecosystem.
Coombe Stables Riding School
Ride deep into the New Forest’s heart on a 4-hour horseback trek with Coombe Stables. Enjoy a scenic ride, a gourmet picnic, and the chance to spot wild ponies in this classic English woodland adventure.
Coombe Stables Riding School is a riding school based in Sway, England that runs a range of riding experiences and lessons for children and adults. The school offers structured sessions including the Kids Club — a 2-hour activity for children aged 4–14 that combines pony care, grooming and tacking up with a private 20-minute riding lesson. Group Lesson sessions are 30 minutes long and participants are grouped by ability to provide safe, level-appropriate instruction.
Private Riding Lessons are available as 30-minute one-on-one sessions that begin with an assessment to create a tailored riding plan. For riders who want to explore the countryside, Private Hacks and Walking Hacks take guests along country lanes and into open forest; Private Hacks can include small exclusive groups of up to 8 participants. The Walking Hack and other guided rides are led by experienced staff to ensure a relaxed, scenic experience.
Shorter family-friendly options include the Kids Arena Walk, a guided 20-minute walk in the outdoor arena with hard hats provided, and longer outings like the Picnic Hack — a 4-hour trek through the New Forest featuring a 90-minute ride to a picnic spot and a bespoke lunch before the return ride. All activities emphasize practical pony skills, safety and enjoyment, with clear guidance for riders of differing abilities.
Location
Sway, England
Based in Sway near country lanes and forest
Tours Offered
7 Experiences
Kids, lessons, hacks and picnic rides
Kids Programs
Ages 4–14
Kids Club and Kids Arena Walk available
Private & Group
Flexible Durations
30-min lessons to 4-hour picnic hacks
Reserve a Kids Club place, private lesson or scenic hack via The Adventure Collective listing to secure dates and times.
Wear Long Sleeves and Boots
Protect yourself from branches and avoid wearing trainers; sturdy boots provide the best grip while riding.
Bring a Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the ride, as the trail can take several hours with limited access to drinking water.
Inform Staff of Dietary Needs
Specify any dietary restrictions when booking to ensure your bespoke picnic caters to your preferences.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Give yourself time to get fitted for a helmet and meet your horse before the ride starts.
Riding Boots or Sturdy Hiking Boots
Offers proper grip and protection for horse riding and walking around the stables.
Long Sleeve Shirt or Jacket
Protects arms from brush and cooler temperatures during the ride.
Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the 4-hour trek.
Weather-Appropriate Layers
Adjust your clothing for comfort against rain, sun, or cold air.
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