Pony Trekking and Horse Riding on the Dartmoor Edge

There is no better way to see Dartmoor than from the back of a pony that knows it. The moor is criss-crossed with bridleways, ancient tracks and open access land that suits horses far better than feet, and the stables on the Dartmoor edge have been guiding riders across this country for decades.

This guide covers the local options, from twenty-minute pony rides for small children to half-day moorland trails for confident riders.

What Makes Dartmoor Riding Special

The combination of open moor, big skies and a network of legal riding routes is unusual in lowland England. From the saddle, you can be on miles of bridleway within a few minutes of the stable yard, with views that open up across the National Park and down into the river valleys.

Dartmoor ponies themselves are part of the experience. The semi-wild herds graze the moor year-round, and you will pass them on the better rides, often with foals at foot through summer.

The Local Stables

Cholwell Riding Stables

Cholwell, between Okehampton and Tavistock on the A386, has been guiding rides for more than fifty years. They run from one-hour escorted rides up to half- and full-day trails, with a strong tradition of welcoming complete novices alongside experienced riders. Indicative prices for a one-hour ride are around £37, with longer rides priced accordingly.

Short pony rides for younger children, lasting 20 or 30 minutes, are a good way to introduce small riders without committing to a long session in the saddle.

Other options around the moor

Several other stables operate on the Dartmoor fringe, including those associated with Bovey Castle and a handful of smaller family-run yards. The Visit Dartmoor and Enjoy Dartmoor magazines list active operators, and it is worth phoning ahead in school holidays.

Most stables can pair you to a horse based on weight, experience and confidence. If you have not ridden for years, say so honestly; the right mount makes the difference between a great morning and a stressful one.

Choosing the Right Ride

For families with small children, look for stables that run lead-rein pony rides on a quiet circuit. These are usually short, calm and a perfect first taste of the saddle.

For adult beginners or rusty riders, an hour’s escorted ride in walk and trot is the sensible starting point. Pace yourself, and ask for a longer ride once you know you are comfortable.

For experienced riders, half-day and full-day trails open up real Dartmoor country, with canters across open ground, river crossings and the chance to see parts of the moor that you cannot reach on foot in a single day.

What to Wear

Long trousers, jodhpurs or leggings, and a pair of boots with a small heel. Trainers are usually refused on safety grounds. Most stables provide hats; check whether they supply gloves and body protectors too.

Layers matter on Dartmoor. The wind on the higher ground can be biting even in summer, and a thin waterproof jacket is sensible year-round. In winter, proper thermal layers, gloves and a buff or scarf.

Children’s kit

Most stables provide hats sized for younger riders. Bring sturdy shoes, layered clothing and a small backpack with a snack and water.

Best Time of Year

Spring through autumn is the obvious window. May and June bring wildflowers and foals on the moor, and the weather is usually settled. September is often the quietest month with the warmest dry ground.

Winter riding is offered by some stables and can be magical on a crisp, clear day, though weather closures are common when the moor is icy or under deep mist. Always check before driving out.

Practical Notes

Book in advance. Stables run small groups and fill up quickly in school holidays. Most ask for a deposit at the time of booking and have age and weight limits for safety.

Be honest about your experience. The stable matches you to a horse based on what you tell them, and a beginner on a forward-going horse is not safe for anyone.

Allow extra time. Briefings, hat fittings and mounting take longer than people expect, and arriving in a rush starts the ride badly. A full hour’s ride usually means around two hours at the stable in total.

Where to Stay Nearby

Several B&Bs and small hotels on the Dartmoor edge cater specifically for riding guests. Some have their own stabling if you bring your own horse; others can recommend a yard within ten minutes.

Totnes and Buckfastleigh both work as bases for a riding-focused stay, with around 30 to 40 minutes’ drive to the western Dartmoor stables. Mary Tavy, Tavistock and Chagford are closer to the action if you plan to ride every day.

After the Ride

The standard finish is tea and cake at the stables, followed by a hot bath and an evening pub meal. The Two Bridges Hotel, the Warren House Inn and the Castle Inn at Lydford are all classic Dartmoor stops for tired riders.

For more ideas on getting out into the National Park, our wider outdoor activities guides cover walking, cycling and wild swimming on the moor.