Horses have lived in Britain since before the separation of the British Isles from Europe. In Boxgrove, West Sussex, remains of horse skeletons have been unearthed which date back to 500,000 years BC and indicate an already existing relationship with humans. Our ancestors used horses for hunting for milenia, having domesticated them by the time of the Roman invasion when Boudica, queen of the Icine, led the revolt against the Roman armies on the back of a horse drawn chariot. Horse riding activities nowadays are a more peaceful experience, based on friendship and respect between the horse and the rider, but West Sussex continues to be a popular setting for equestrian pursuits.

Three main landscapes make up the county. To the South, beaches extend along the majority of the coastline. Though much of this is built up, there are wild stretches to the West, perfect for horse riding. The South Downs chalk hills run across the county, rising up to 280 metres above sea level and falling into steep valleys around Devil’s Dyke near Brighton while to the North, the gentle landscape is known as the Weald. Horses love the open spaces and grassy terrain of the region and you’ll see why if you take a ride on the back of one of these magnificent animals. To top it all off, is the sunniest county in the United Kingdom. As the saying goes, make hay while the sun shines!

Where are the best places to go horseback riding in West Sussex?

• Chichester: Between the coast and the hills is Chichester, a Roman town with plenty of equestrian experiences in the surrounding countryside. If you know how to handle a horse you can hack up into the hills, and excursions are also available for novices, it’s just that you won’t go as far or as fast. Activity days for kids are also on offer, including riding alongside stable activities like mucking out and tacking up. Or you can ride through the surf on the beaches, the sea breeze in your face and the horse’s mane bonding you both together. Check the options here.

• South Downs: The 100 mile South Downs Way runs through the county, and, along with a network of paths and bridleways, let you explore the natural beauty of these hills. On horseback is the best way to get around, and you’ll enjoy spectacular views on a hack or walk into the Downs. The horses and ponies here have a calm and friendly temperament, and are especially good with children. You can organise a pony experience for your son or daughter for them to get to know these fantastic beasts and even play games with them.

• Haywards Heath: In the centre of the county, this town takes its name from a famous highwayman - Jack Hayward - who held up carriages and made off with the coin purses and jewellery of the travellers on horseback. We can see why he chose this area for his exploits - its unpopulated hills, valleys and woods (that are home to wild boars) are perfect for escaping the long arm of the law! While we can’t recommend following in old Jack’s footsteps, retracing his rides in Haywards Heath on your own horse will be a journey back in time as well as through some beautiful scenery.

• Horsham: On the edge of the Weald, Horsham is a gateway to some beautiful horse riding country. The views of this quintessentially English landscape look great between the ears of a noble horse, and an hour or two’s hack can take in a variety of farmland, woods and plains. Alternatively, stay in the stables and riding arena for a lesson or activity day in the company of the equine residents.

• East Grinstead: Less than an hour by train from central London, East Grinstead is the perfect destination for an escape from the city. The villages between here and Crawley boast some charming countryside pubs and you can visit the best on a pub ride. As you enjoy some traditional refreshments, the horses can take advantage of some high quality grazing, before trekking on to the next watering hole! Or if you’re looking for a luxurious tour of the High Weald, why not take a ride in a horse drawn carriage? A timeless way to celebrate a special occasion or surprise a loved one.

What kind of equestrian experiences are there?

- You don’t need to be an experienced jockey to get out into the West Sussex countryside on a horse. Walkouts and short rides, of 30 minutes or an hour, are an easy way to take your first steps on horseback. You’ll be able to cover a couple of miles on an experience like this, for the most part on paths and bridleways with no need to avoid traffic. For those who already know how to ride and want to travel a bit further on a more energetic ride, known as a hack, one or two hours’ trotting and cantering can take in a variety of landscapes and provide you with views across the county.

- But the life of a horse doesn’t consist solely of carrying humans along country lanes and onto the chalky peaks of the South Downs. They also need time for relaxation and entertainment. You can get involved in this side of the equestrian world with a stable-based experience. Particularly suited for children, anm activity day will include some of the more practical aspects of horse care such as grooming, cleaning the stables,and looking after the riding equipment, as well as fun and games. Riding backwards, dressing up and other challenges keep both kids and ponies entertained, and are a bonding experience for both species.

Requirements to do this activity

Very nearly everyone has the opportunity to have an unforgettable experience here. Some stables will take children as young as two and half years old on a lead rein ride, in which the horse is guided by a member of staff on foot. Nervous first timers can also take their first steps on horseback in this way, before building up the confidence to ride independently. For activities, parties and independent riding, kids from seven years old and up are welcome to get involved.

To go on a hack, which is a ride that’s designed to exercise the horse, you need to know what you’re doing. You’ll trot and canter on some more challenging paths and terrains and so you need to be confident in the saddle and experienced enough to keep up with the group, which limits hacking to teenagers and adults. Each horse has a maximum weight that it can carry. The stables decide these limits with the wellbeing of the horse in mind and we recommend that you get in touch to find out what’s on offer if you weigh 12 stone or more.

With this guide you have all the information to make your booking. Once that’s done, we’ll get down to business to organise your adventure!