The sound of hooves on heather and the occasional skylark

Horse riding in the Preseli Hills

Few landscapes are more enticing to a horse and rider than an open moorland mountain or a cool woodland bridleway.

And in Pembrokeshire that can mean only one thing – a trip to the Preseli Hills and the Gwaun Valley.

Horses dominate the landscape on the wild moorland commons of Carn Ingli and the Preseli Hills, which are still home to a community of wild ponies that inhabit this landscape all year round.

Kirsty Morris
On the Preseli Hills above Newport

The sound of hooves on heather and the occasional skylark or bleating sheep will be the only sound breaking the silence as you walk, trot or gallop across this enchanting landscape.

Gentle riding school horses have trodden this path frequently enough to know where to take you and how to get home again, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride.

Kirsty Morris

Novice riders can enjoy an hour’s hack straight from the stables, onto bridleways and moor without needing to negotiate traffic.

While experienced riders will appreciate longer rides and a forward horse, dropping down into Gwaun Valley for a quick drink at Bessie’s before exploring valleys and woodlands on the way home.

Kirsty Morris
Longer rides usually take in a visit to Bessie's
Kirsty Morris
Exploring the Gawun Valley

Several riding stables offer a range of riding experiences across Pembrokeshire, from riding lessons and kids clubs, to open moorland adventures, rides on the beach and visits to pubs and cream tearooms!

Whatever riding experience you’re dreaming of Pembrokeshire has it all – so saddle up and get out there!

Not too sure about the horses but still want to explore the Preseli Hills? Tie up your walking shoes and follow the Golden Road along the spine of the hills. This ancient route was used by traders heading to and from Ireland and is steeped in history.