Hacking
Available daily. For people able to ride at a canter - not suitable for beginner riders
Hacking
Available daily. For people able to ride at a canter - not suitable for beginner riders
Many people who ride in schools or have their own horses do not have opportunities to ride out or do not have good places to ride. At Ellesmere, we can fill this gap for you giving you the opportunity to ride in open spaces that seem to go on forever across mountains with incredible views. We also welcome hacking riders being involved in tacking-up and also untacking and grooming your horse after the ride.
What is Hacking?
Hacking is riding at a faster pace than trekking with lovely going for long canters and the rides take you further and higher onto the mountains than the trekking routes. The experienced ride escorts with a wealth of local knowledge will point out fascinating features and wildlife en route.
Half day Hacking
Half day hacks last about 2 hours and are available morning and afternoon. On a circular route from the stables, you trot along quiet lanes before cantering across the open mountain-side where you can look down on Llangorse Lake far below.
Full day Hacking
If you fancy a day's riding, we are able to offer day long hacks with approximately four hours in the saddle riding. Travelling through the western parts of the Black Mountains in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park, we stop for a picnic lunch* before journeying back by a different route, with numerous opportunities for long canters throughout the day.
You get to see some spectacular scenery and wide open spaces, with views across Llangorse Lake to the Brecon Beacons, and eastwards into the mysterious and isolated Black Mountains.
* Please bring a picnic lunch which you will carry in your saddlebags which we provide.
Longer-day Moorland and Forest Hacks
In a small group of usually three or five riders plus an experienced guide, head off from the stables or in the horsebox to explore some new terrain. Crossing outstanding open moorland and following grassy forestry tracks with superb "going" under hoof, these rides on our fit, forward-going, well-schooled horses provide ample opportunity for excellent canters. You will need to bring a picnic lunch which we will carry in our saddlebags. Rides are out all day for typically 5 - 6 hours with a picnic stop and an opportunity for the horses to have a relaxing rest. However, the pace will always be suitable for what you are happy with and we have a variety of routes to explore to vary the length of the day but still have fun..
Private Hacks
Want to have a go at faster rides but not sure if you have the experience? Don't worry, subject to availability and for a small additional charge per rider, we can offer you a private hack with your own personal guide. You can go at your own pace and not worry about being part of a group. Please
Contact Us for further details and prices.
The Horses
The horses used for hacking are fit, forward going, well-schooled Welsh cobs or cob crosses.
Weight Limit
Please note that our weight limit for Hacking is about 14.5 stone (203lbs / 92kg).
Prices per Ride 2026
Half day Hacking
Morning (ride depart 10.30am) or Afternoon (ride depart 1.30pm)
£60.00
Full day Hacking Rides
10.30am - 3:30pm approx. Stopping for lunch break for a picnic (not included in price)
£110.00
Full day Mountain, Moorland and Forest Hacks for Experienced Riders
From 10.30am for 5-6 hours riding. Remember! Please bring a picnic lunch. Max 5 riders.
£140.00
If you wish to book a larger group on a Moorland and Forest Hack, please contact us.
PLEASE NOTE: We ask that you please arrive for your ride about 45 minutes before the ride is due to depart (9.45am for morning and day rides, 12:45pm for afternoon rides). Riding hats are available for all rides free to use.
