In 1846 a shire horse called Sampson was born in Bedfordshire, England. By the time he was 4 years old, it was clear that there was something special about him and was renamed Mammoth to reflect his enormous size: Mammoth grew to a height of 2.19 metres and weighed over 1,500 kilograms. While this was an exceptional example, all horses are big, powerful animals - but they’re gentle giants. Humans and horses have lived, worked and played side by side for thousands of years, and a day with these wonderful animals is the perfect way to disconnect from the stresses and strains of the modern world.

Though its most famous horse has long departed, this county is still a favourite location for horses and riding. In the South the Chiltern hills descend to agricultural plains that cover the rest of the county. This rural landscape is peppered with picturesque villages and criss-crossed by rivers, railways and motorways. There are pleasant countryside rides to enjoy, hilly terrain to explore and comfortable stables for the horses to relax in.

Where are the best places to go horseback riding in Bedfordshire?

• Luton: The biggest town in the county, Luton is most famous for its airport which is one of the busiest in the country. While necessary for long distance journeys, travelling by aeroplane can be a tedious or stressful experience. Take a more traditional trip on horseback in the Chiltern or Pegsdon hills outside Luton and truly understand the phrase “it’s better to travel than to arrive.” Horseback riding is a fantastic pastime and in Luton there are rides for all abilities, as well as fun activities in the stables for children to enjoy.

• Flitwick: The Greensand Ridge Walk runs for 40 miles through the central region, past the town of Flitwick. Riding along this ridge will give unrivalled views of the county, and you might even spot a muntjac - a species of small white-tailed deer. Or if you prefer to stay at the stables, a fun packed programme of activities or even an organised party await you and your children, to have fun and in a bonding experience with new horse friends.

• Bedford: Horses have always been valued in Bedford, as you can see at the National Trust property of Willington. You can visit the 500 year old stone stables, and, just next door, a dovecot built in the same style with space for 1,500 pigeons. When it comes to operating stables, younger horse enthusiasts are well catered for here. Children of all ages can take their first steps on horseback, have lessons to improve their technique, go hacking in the countryside or have an immersive pony camp experience, including all of the above plus the nitty gritty details of mucking out the stables!

• Potton: In centuries past, Potton’s horse fairs were some of the largest in the country, and to this day it’s a great place to go riding. Hacking routes will take you through the local farmland and woods, while the more modern pursuit of therapy is also practised here. Horses are naturally calm creatures with an inquisitive interest in people, and they can help people to feel grounded and relaxed in a relationship free from judgement.

What kind of experiences can you find here?

- Whether you want to approach a horse for the first time in your life, or put your skills and experience to good use in the charming landscape, there’s something for you in Bedfordshire. Beginner activities such as 30 minute lead rein walks, where someone guides the horse and rider by taking the reins and walking ahead, are a great way to get a taste of the equestrian world, and for those that are hooked there are lessons for all abilities. Hacking, which involves riding a horse for an hour or two at a variety of speeds and over different terrains, is designed to challenge and exercise the horse, so it’s essential that the rider has some experience in the saddle.

- Many of the activities on offer here are perfect for children, who often have a natural fondness for these gentle animals. As well as taking lessons to become competent riders, kids can take part in activity days or organised parties at the stables which combine horse riding with horse care and some fun and games thrown into the mix. A pony camp will immerse your son and daughter in the daily routine of the stables, and they’ll get involved with every aspect of the animal’s lives, from exercise and play, to grooming and hygiene.

Requirements to do this activity

Children can have their first experiences at an early stage in their development. Tiny Tots clubs are open to kids under four years old, so your son or daughter can ride a horse shortly after learning to walk themselves. After that, they can take lessons to develop style and confidence in the saddle, and later this hobby, can take them all over the world for any kind of equestrian experience.

The first ever steeplechase race was held here back in 1811, but you don’t need any jockey experience to get on a horse. Adults of all abilities are welcome. In fact, many stables are working to make horse riding accessible to people with all abilities and disabilities so that it’s as inclusive as possible. The only restrictions for adults are related to weight. There’s a maximum load that any individual horse can carry, depending on the breed, size and age of the horse. This limit can be as low as 12 stone. In any case, get in contact first to find out if there’s an animal that will suit you.

This county is just 30 miles from central London, which means that your equestrian escape is within easy reach. To get away from it all, make a booking for an experience here and we know that you won’t regret it - you’ll probably be back for more before long!