Ride Like Royalty in Ireland’s Ultimate Equestrian Playground
This equestrian playground delivers pure Irish adrenaline, with 300 cross-country jumps, miles of bridle paths through ancient forests and open pastures, and an indoor arena packed with show-jumping exercises that will have your heart thundering. Between world-class riding for all abilities and a castle-side stay fit for royalty at one of Ireland’s finest estate hotels, this is the ultimate way to experience the Emerald Isle and its legendary horses.
Trip Highlights
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Cantering around a fairytale wonderland
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Cross country jumping to your heart’s content
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Staying in The Lodge at one of the finest castle hotels in Ireland
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Exploring a 1,000-acre estate flanked by ancient forests and open grazing pastures
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Chowing down on a hearty Irish breakfast
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Enjoying off-horse comforts and activities, from falconry to spa time
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Riding revered Irish horses across an estate awash with history
• 6 days, 5 nightsRiding levelBeginner • Intermediate • Strong Intermediate • Advanced Centre-based You ride out from the same destination every day.
Details
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Riding levels
Beginner to advanced. There are 2 riding programmes available, designed to suit all riding levels and interests.
*Please note that for health and safety reasons, all guests must complete a brief practical riding assessment regardless of level and ability. Guests MUST be deemed safe and capable before they will be allowed to jump.Not sure what your riding ability is? See the definitions below.
- Type of tack
English all-purpose saddles and bridles.
- Horse breed
A herd of 27 riding horses to choose from including Irish Sport Horses, Irish Draughts, Thoroughbreds, Connemaras, cobs and ponies.
*Please note, you can expect to ride a variety of horses throughout your stay. - Accommodation
You’ll stay within a magnificent 1,000-acre castle estate, accommodated in the elegant Lodge overlooking the stables, where chic country-house rooms feature king or twin beds, roll-top Victorian baths and walk-in showers – widely regarded as some of Ireland’s finest.
- Pace
Variable – depending on the program you choose. There are 2 riding programmes, designed to suit all riding levels and interests with flat work, show jumping, cross country and estate rides on offer. There will be walking, trotting and cantering each day.
- Weight limit
A maximum of 100kg / 220lbs.
It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If your weight is not accurate, we cannot guarantee that your hosts will have a horse for you to ride.
- Group size
Variable, but you can expect to ride in a group of no more than 6 people each day, often less.
- Minimum age
7 years of age
- Time in Saddle
3 hours per day, split into a 2 hour ride in the morning and 1 hour in the afternoon (or vice versa).
- When to go
Available year-round.
- Languages
English
What’s included (and what’s not)
Included
- Luxury accommodation at The Lodge
- 3 hours riding per day
- Breakfast and dinner each day
Excluded
- International or regional flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Transfers to and from the ride
- Lunch is NOT included (but after eating an Irish breakfast, you normally don’t need to eat anything until evening. However, if you do become peckish, Conor’s Bar {on-site} is open for lunch.)
Departure dates and prices
Instalment plans available
Lock in your ride with a 10% deposit and pay the rest over time – interest-free in 10 easy payments. Learn more.
Per person
2026
May 24 to 29, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
May 31 to June 5, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
June 14 to 19, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
June 28 to July 3, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
July 5 to 10, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
July 26 to 31, 2026
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August 2 to 7, 2026
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August 9 to 14, 2026
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August 16 to 21, 2026
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August 23 to 28, 2026
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August 30 to September 4, 2026
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September 6 to 11, 2026
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September 13 to 18, 2026
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September 20 to 25, 2026
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September 27 to October 2, 2026
October 4 to 9, 2026
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October 11 to 16, 2026
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October 18 to 23, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Custom departure dates 2026 are available all year round upon request and subject to availability.
Stays range from 3 to 7 nights.
2027
March 7 to 12, 2027
March 14 to 19, 2027
March 21 to 26, 2027
March 28 to April 2, 2027
April 4 to 9, 2027
April 11 to 16, 2027
April 18 to 23, 2027
April 25 to 30, 2027
May 2 to 7, 2027
May 9 to 14, 2027
May 16 to 21, 2027
May 23 to 28, 2027
May 30 to June 4, 2027
June 6 to 11, 2027
June 13 to 18, 2027
June 20 to 25, 2027
June 27 to July 2, 2027
July 4 to 9, 2027
July 11 to 16, 2027
July 18 to 23, 2027
August 1 to 6, 2027
August 8 to 13, 2027
August 15 to 20, 2027
August 22 to 27, 2027
August 29 to September 3, 2027
September 5 to 10, 2027
September 26 to October 1, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
October 3 to 8, 2027
October 10 to 15, 2027
October 17 to 22, 2027
October 24 to 29, 2027
Custom departure dates 2027 are available all year round upon request and subject to availability.
Stays range from 3 to 7 nights.
We'll email you — you'll be among the first to hear when new departure dates are released.
The fun bits
Payment details
- A fixed Booking Fee of €93 EUR
- All bookings are charged in the local currency of the ride destination.
- Accepted payment method is by credit or debit card only.
Cancellation policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ride, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellation fees apply based on how close your departure date is, and deposits are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your booking. Read our full cancellation policy.
International fees
If you're paying in a currency different from your own, your bank may charge a conversion or international transaction fee.
Please note
Solo travellers are required to pay the single rider price, unless we can find another guest willing to twin share.
Please also note, the child rate applies to children aged between 7 to 11 years only.
Itinerary
These are sample itineraries only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to your riding ability, local weather conditions, and other influencing factors.
For groups with varying abilities, or where some riders are eager to jump and others are not, it is possible for everyone to ride together on the ‘Horse Sport’ programme, provided everyone is comfortable riding at a walk, trot and canter. Those who do not wish to jump will be under no pressure to do so on any of the scheduled rides.
While every effort will be made to confirm all elements of each programme, availability of each equestrian activity cannot be guaranteed. Thanks for your understanding.
- 5-night Horse Sport
- 5-night Happy Hackers
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Horse Sport Program
Intermediate to advanced riders with jumping experience (even if only limited).For more experienced riders looking to improve their skills. A mix of cross country, show jumping, dressage and trail rides. Cross country jumping is very different to jumping in an arena, and on this programme you’ll make that transition safely and with confidence. Please note, you won’t be allowed out on the cross-country course until day 4 of your itinerary.
*Please also note that you will only be allowed to participate in jumping and cross-country if the instructors deem you capable and safe to do so. This is for the safety of both you and your horse.
ALL riding holidays will begin with a one-hour assessment lesson to determine which horses will best suit you. Remember, you’ll be riding a variety of horses throughout your stay, which helps you become a better rider, as you’re introduced to different equine personalities and abilities.
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Day 1: Arrival & Assessment Lesson
1 hour in the saddleWith bubbles of excitement and anticipation, you’ll arrive at the castle in County Monaghan today. You’ll check in and be shown to your deluxe room in The Lodge where you can unpack, settle in and pinch yourself – you’re finally here!
Then you’ll head to the on-site equestrian centre where you’ll have a one-hour lesson/assessment in the afternoon. This is purely an introductory ride so you can be matched to a selection of horses that best suit your ability. The castle has a herd of 27 riding horses from Thoroughbreds to Irish Draughts, Irish Sport Horses, Irish Cobs and even ponies (for the children). Generally, you’ll ride a different horse every day.
As part of your stay, each night you’ll have the choice between a 2-course meal at Conor’s Bar, a traditional Irish pub with hearty country cooking located on the ground floor of The Lodge, or 1 course at the more intimate and award-winning Snaffles Restaurant (also located at The Lodge).
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Day 2: Around the Estate
3 hours in the saddleWake up and feast on a full Irish Breakfast. From traditional porridge topped with cream, to fresh fruit and pastries, to hot breakfast made to order, it’s so elaborate and filling you won’t look twice at lunch! (Remember, lunch is not included in the price, but is available from Conor’s Bar. Alternatively, you can ask for a takeaway container at breakfast and fill it up with some pastries or fruit to snack on throughout the day.)
Today you’ll be in the saddle for three hours, broken up with a two-hour estate ride and a one-hour jump lesson. An estate ride will see you exploring the 1000-acre estate, winding through ancient woodlands and skirting shimmering lakes. Your Irish riding guide will be a wealth of knowledge about the region, the castle and of course its rich history. The afternoon’s riding activity will see you head to the indoor arena for a one-hour jump lesson to gain confidence and pointers from your instructor.
When you’re not in the saddle, there are plenty of opportunities to do absolutely nothing, or walk around the estate, lie under an elm tree and read a book, or stroll into the nearby village. This riding holiday has the perfect balance between riding and relaxation, that’s for sure.
Dine again tonight in either Conor’s Bar (2 courses) or Snaffles Restaurant (1 course) before hitting the hay.
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Day 3: Indoor Cross-Country
3 hours in the saddleAnother exhilarating day ahead, where the nerves have well and truly abated and the smell of horse sweat, jumping and intoxicating Irish landscapes makes you tremble with excitement. Another estate ride might be on the agenda this morning, where you’ll trot and canter to your heart’s content. With a riding group of no more than six, plus your guides, you’ll have the flexibility to explore a range of terrain and soak up your emerald green surrounds.
This afternoon you’ll saddle-up for an indoor cross-country jumping session where you’ll get invaluable tuition and pointers from your instructor. As riders, we’re always learning, so there is nothing better than being in a small group on capable horses with knowledgeable instructors.
When the sun sets, you can enjoy a bevvie at Conor’s Bar before choosing whether to stay and dine there or head upstairs to Snaffles Restaurant. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for an exceptional dining experience.
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Day 4: Cross-Country Time!
3 hours in the saddleJust another day waking up in the stunning grounds of a castle – say what?! And TODAY is the day your Globetrotting posse hit the cross country course, with over 300 jumps and water elements. Hip hip HOORAY! All the training and tuition leading up to this moment will have given you the confidence and ability to enjoy the cross country course wholeheartedly and, most importantly, safely.
The afternoon’s session will be a one-hour dressage lesson where you might even try your hand at a musical ride. ALL will be discussed over a hearty Irish dinner that evening, either at Conor’s Bar or Snaffles Restaurant.
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Day 5: Developing Technique and Control
3 hours in the saddleToday is ALL about the love and desire to fly on horseback. That’s right, you’re jumping for three whole hours (rest assured, globetrotters, if jumping is not your thing, you can easily ride around the jumps, or take a flat lesson, depending on your riding programme). At 10am, you will head to the cross-country course for a two-hour leap-frog session. Then in the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a one-hour show jumping lesson.
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Day 6: Course Practice & Departure
2 hours in the saddleBOO HOO! Today is your final day in the castle and estate that you’ve called home for the past five days. The good news is that you’ll be going out with a BANG! At 9am you will mount up for the last time and hit the cross-country course for two hours of uninterrupted jumping time. This is what Globetrotting dreams are made of: scooting over logs, through brush and splashing through water in an equestrian wonderland.
After an adrenaline-filled morning, you’ll bid farewell to your horses (who you’ll no doubt secretly want to take home with you!), hosts and guides, and depart for your onward travels.
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Non-rider information
Non-riders have plenty to enjoy on the 1,000-acre estate beyond the horses. You can explore private walking trails through woodlands and around lakes, visit historic estate features like the walled garden, Gothic Lodge and St Salvator’s Church, or try activities such as falconry, archery, clay-target shooting and picnics in scenic spots (additional costs involved). There’s also relaxing spa treatments, and casual or fine dining options on site, plus opportunities to wander the picturesque village of Glaslough and its heritage trail. For added freedom to explore the surrounding region at your own pace, we strongly recommend non-riders have a rental car during your stay.
Transfer information
The estate is located in County Monaghan, Ireland, a 90 minute drive (121 kilometres) from Dublin International Airport.
There is a taxi service available between Dublin or Belfast and the estate. The costs are €200 for one guest one way, €100 pp for 2-5 guests one way, or €90 pp for 6+ guests one way (prices are subject to change).
*Please note that these prices apply to airport pick-up and drop-off only. Transfers from city centre hotels are available but will incur significantly higher costs.
Bus Eireann also has a frequent and well-priced service between Dublin city centre and Monaghan town, which is a 15 minute taxi ride from the estate. Taxis from Monaghan to the Estate need to be pre-booked.
There is also the option of hiring a car so you have the flexibility to explore the surrounding region in your free time.
Please note
Please aim to arrive at the Estate in County Monaghan at least 30 minutes prior to your assessment lesson on the first afternoon (please refer to your personal ride schedule, which should have been sent to you via email, for your lesson time). On the final morning, you’ll finish riding at approximately 11am and can depart after that. Please take driving distances and times into consideration if booking departing flights home that day.
Accommodation
One of the highlights of this entire itinerary is the ancient castle and the surrounding 1,000 acre estate. As a globetrotter, you will be staying in The Lodge, which overlooks the stables. The guest rooms in The Lodge are chic, country-house boutique, each offering blissful king size bed or twin-bed accommodation, a free-standing Victorian roll top bath, and separate walk-in shower. The lodgings are said to be some of Ireland’s finest. *Insert squeal of excitement*
Food
You’ll start each morning with a traditional full Irish breakfast – a feast of bacon, sausages, eggs, mushrooms, black and white pudding, tomatoes, potatoes and fresh breads, with porridge, fruit and pastries for good measure – giving you more than enough fuel for a full day in the saddle. Lunch isn’t included, but after such a breakfast you likely won’t need it, and Conor’s Bar is on-site if you get peckish. Evenings bring hearty, delicious dinners with a choice between the cosy, casual Conor’s Bar or the award-winning Snaffles Restaurant, ensuring you’re well fed and ready for the next day’s adventures.
Reviews
Dawn C
Caitlin B
Deborah O
Cynthia H
Nicole W
Nora R
Anne G
Elena K
Anna K
Penelope H
Jeanine Y
Angela D
Laura K
Kristie M
Sue T
Brittany B
Nancy M
Caitlin S
Susanne K
Kirralee D
Genevieve W
Alison B
Carol M
Alexandra F
Isabelle C
Catarina D
Stephanie S
Shona M
Catherine K
Lucia T
Sally J
Stephanie H
Erica B
Tracy K
Chelsey U
Emily R
Rianna S
Melissa S
Rudolf J
Tarni K
Kim H
Lauri O
Melissa A
Ellie W
Emma W
Sophie L
Emily P
Heather S
Christina B
Nancy B
Kellie P
Christina L
Hope T
Rachel J
Marshall W
Richard P
Debbie W
Moira F
Heather S
Lindsey S
Susan T
Yvonne D
Patricia F
Florence P
Danielle S
Anna A
Anastasia B
Tamsyn B
Sandra G
Zara V
70 reviews
Dawn C
From my first group hack on the day of my arrival, to the private estate ride on the day of my departure, EVERY ride was great! Henry was my hands down favorite, but Blueberry and Eric were awesome to ride as well. I love how diligently everything is well maintained….from the stalls (never saw a dirty stall at all) to the horse’s tails, manes and hooves. The tack is well maintained too. I can’t find a single negative thing to say about the facilities, the staff, the guides or the horses. I also made a few new friends as well! I see a return trip to Castle Leslie in my future!
Caitlin B
For my first riding trip abroad, I wanted something that felt special but also simple and stress free, and the Castle and Estate ride was exactly that. From the moment I arrived, everything was easy and welcoming. My room, the dining areas, and the stables were all just a short walk from one another, which made the whole experience feel relaxed and effortless.
The horses were wonderful, the instructors were knowledgeable and supportive, and the views around the estate were absolutely beautiful. Every ride felt like a chance to really take in the scenery and enjoy being there.
I also really appreciated how accommodating they were with food. I am vegan and gluten free, and they had great options at every meal.
I used the taxi service arranged through the estate, which was very straightforward and made travel to and from the property simple (I came straight from the Dublin airport). The spa was another highlight and the perfect way to relax after a day of riding.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Castle and Estate ride, especially for anyone looking for a beautiful and easy introduction to riding abroad.
Deborah O
‘This was my second time doing the Castle & Estate Ride, and I had a great time both times. The staff can’t do enough to accommodate everyone, and the horses are great. The rides are fantastic! I loved how we could see the horses from our room. The food had a good variety and plenty of it. Our guides were very friendly and knowledgeable. I had some great chats with them, and they gave good advice and were great fun.’
Cynthia H
‘My experience with the Globetrotting folks was a dream come true. From the very beginning, it was the most magical adventure. The initial check-in was fabulous; everyone was warm, friendly and very helpful. The atmosphere of the estate was so spiritually inviting, engaged with positive energy beyond words. The beautiful horses, each with personality, charm and affection, made my experience amazing. The trainers were superb in every fashion, and I learned something new every day. Riding through the estate took me somewhere I have never been before. I felt pulled back in time and brought to a beautiful place I will never forget. Leaving brought tears to my eyes; I must return.’
Nicole W
‘The Castle & Estate Ride beat my expectations in every way. I couldn’t believe that the estate was even more beautiful than in the pictures and videos I had seen. Each horse was capable and safe. The rider instructors gave me some of the best guidance I have ever received. I learned a lot during the week and found my confidence. The other riders in our group were all at the same riding level which was great. The accommodations were lovely and comfortable.’
Nora R
‘The Castle & Estate ride was my first ever horse riding holiday, and I absolutely loved it! As a lifelong nomad, I was super impressed by the level of organisation. Everything was super easy; the people were amazing, and the horses were adorable. I had a 20-year riding break and returned to riding just a few months before the ride. During the four days I spent there, I advanced my riding skills really fast and gained the confidence to try out different horses back home as well! I will always cherish my favourite horses: Bee, TJ, and big boy Russell! I also really loved the Falconry experience. All in all, it was a 10/10 experience, and I cannot wait for the next one!’
Anne G
‘This was the experience of my lifetime! I had to keep pinching myself to realise I wasn’t dreaming. By far, this was the best trip that I’ve ever gone on. Castle Leslie exceeded our expectations. I loved every horse I rode, as they let me experience working with so many personalities, and it gave me so much confidence to know I could ride and manage them all. Our guides were all excellent; they each had their own unique way of teaching, guiding, and instructing. I think it was very good to learn from several different people; I love variety! My goal is to do at least one Globetrotting trip per year while I still can!’
Elena K
‘After finishing the amazing Castle and Estate Ride in Ireland, I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming! Pairing the most luxurious accommodation with delicious, plentiful meals, gorgeous and expansive grounds, and a whole range of horse riding experiences—from flat work to indoor jumping, to hacking, to cross country—I couldn’t fault my stay. With an endless supply of willing and well-trained horses and knowledgeable instructors, I went from not having done a cross-country jump in years and feeling very nervous about the whole thing to feeling confident and enjoying trying far more jumps than I had ever hoped for on the trip. Would strongly recommend to anyone who wants to get back to or improve their confidence with jumping, or anyone who just wants a luxurious and relaxing horsey escape!’
Anna K
‘This was my first Globetrotters experience, and it definitely won’t be my last! I enjoyed the Castle Leslie ride so much that it may be impossible to top. Everything from the amazing horses, instructors, staff, castle, charming town of Glaslough, endless acres of the estate, accommodations, dining, spa, and fellow Globetrotters… completely exceeded my expectations, and I was sad to leave. One of the best weeks of my life!’
Penelope H
‘This was the holiday of a lifetime. We turned up, were fed, and taken care of in absolute luxury. We got to ride the safest and most trustworthy horses in a gorgeous location. The room and Estate were fantastic, and the food was beautiful. All the guides and support staff were very professional and we met wonderful people from around the globe.’
Jeanine Y
‘This riding holiday was exceptional from start to finish. The horses were beautifully schooled, responsive, and a joy to ride. Knowledgeable coaches provided expert guidance, whether out on cross-country or indoors, refining horsemanship. The Irish countryside was lush and stunning—perfect for longer, scenic rides and deer-spotting. The cross-country jumping opportunities were exhilarating, and the indoor arena was ideal for focused sessions. The lodge accommodation was luxurious with views of the stables, a relaxing spa, and gourmet meals that added to the experience. Every detail of the Castle & Estate ride was thoughtfully arranged for both comfort and skill development. I’ll definitely be back—it was an unforgettable equestrian escape in Ireland.’
Angela D
‘My daughter and I had dreamed about a riding holiday for years, and the Castle & Estate Ride did not disappoint! The accommodations are well-appointed and comfortable. They are also steps away from the stables! How could that be any better? The food was excellent as well. Most importantly, the riding staff was welcoming and knowledgeable, and the range of horses was exceptional, as I am a beginning rider and my daughter is at a much higher level. We hope to return!’
Laura K
‘The Castle & Estate ride is so fun and magical! The people and the accommodations were spectacular. We loved every minute of it and did not want to leave. I recommend checking out the Falconry at the castle, which was both fun and educational. The staff were amazing: friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. I come from a Western style of riding, so English was challenging; however, our instructors were fun and helpful, making everyone feel safe and getting the ride they wanted each day! The scenery and the trails along the ride were so beautiful, and the horses were very happy and well cared for. I would recommend this ride to anyone!’
Kristie M
‘The Castle & Estate ride was truly special. The horses were well taken care of, and the stable staff were great at matching horses to riders perfectly. Our instructors were encouraging and knowledgeable, had good humour and were tactful in helping clients. Everyone else was tidy, pleasant and helpful. The estate is stunning, and the accommodations are top-notch.’
Sue T
‘This was my fourth Globetrotting ride & I was once again very impressed. The guides, horses, accommodations & food were all top notch. The trails were beautiful & the town charming. It was the perfect combination of horses & relaxation. I was very sad to leave.’
Brittany B
‘From start to finish, my Globetrotting experience was nothing short of magical. Every aspect – from the welcoming staff and immaculate stables to the breathtaking grounds and thoughtfully matched horses – was handled with care, professionalism, and heart. One of the most unexpected and cherished parts of the trip was the connection formed with the incredible group of fellow riders. We arrived as strangers and left as lifelong friends—bonded by laughter, shared experiences, and a love of horses. We’re already dreaming up plans for our next Globetrotting adventure together!
As a lifelong horse lover, I can honestly say I wouldn’t change a single thing. The itinerary, the people, the horses – it was a dream come true. Thank you, Globetrotting, for crafting such a soul-filling adventure. I’ll treasure it forever.’
Nancy M
‘My sister and I planned this trip together. We are a little older and have never even been across the ocean. We could not have picked a better vacation. We very much enjoyed the horses and the staff. The staff was very accommodating, taking into account our age and physical limitations, matching us up with horses that suited us, and being patient with us. I had the pleasure of riding Willow and Russell; they were both great horses, very willing to go out on rides and do whatever was asked of them. Our room overlooked the stables, and it was just down the hall and a set of stairs to get to the stables. We went down every night to feed the horses carrots. It was fantastic. On our last day, we went cross-country and I got to jump some jumps — it was a highlight of my trip. If I can save enough money, I hope to do this all again.’
Caitlin S
‘All I can say is WOW! I booked this trip almost a year ago and have been hyping it up in my mind for months, and let me tell you—it lives up to the hype! I haven’t ridden frequently in over 10 years and really didn’t know how much I would be able to do. Turns out, a lot! This ride is perfect for anyone who wants to get back in the saddle. I went from hesitantly cantering on arrival day to confidently jumping mini courses in the arena in just 2 days! Then, I finished the week doing pretty large 4-5 jump cross-country combos! The instructors are all amazing, encouraging, and fun to be around, as are the other riders! And don’t get me started on the horses. They’re all so well-trained and confident, but trust me, you’ll still end up with favourites (I’m looking at you, Robin). As a solo traveller, I was nervous about doing something like this alone. Well, I had absolutely nothing to worry about. The alone time is peaceful, but you spend enough time in the saddle with other people to make friends. It’s the perfect mixture of “vacation relaxation” and “outdoorsy fun.” Decidedly, the best vacation I’ve ever given myself! If you’ve been considering this ride, DO IT!’
Susanne K
‘A great confidence builder. I had forgotten how much I loved to jump as it has been probably 15 years! The weather for our morning hacks was beautiful and the leaves were the perfect autumn gold. One morning was so misty it felt like we were riding in a dream, which it was for me, a dream come true. Almost every day I had a different horse but they all knew the trails and exactly where to canter and when to slow down. We would go back via the lake, which was a stunning photo op in front of the castle and on one track we were on the border with Northern Ireland. For my jumping lessons, I rode Blueberry who had the most even canter the jumps seemed like just another stride. The rooms at the Lodge were spacious and comfortable and the food was amazingly good.’
Kirralee D
‘As a beginner rider still learning to canter, I was initially concerned about wasting my time and money on this experience, especially with the focus on Cross Country Riding. However, I am delighted to say that this ride was truly transformative for me. I felt I grew exponentially as a rider. The instructions and guidance I received were exceptional, and I felt very safe with both the horses and my instructors, both in and out of the arena. I left the experience excited about continuing my journey in horse riding as an adult and was already browsing the ride calendar to plan my next Globetrotting adventure.’
What's my riding level?
Not sure what your riding level is? Watch our videos to see all our levels.
Beginner
Reasonably confident riding a horse at a walk, a rising trot, and learning to canter.
Intermediate
Confident and in control riding at all paces outside an arena, but not riding regularly. Comfortable and competent using aids {the language of your leg, seat and hands} to communicate with your horse.
Strong Intermediate
An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly outside of an arena and is fit enough to ride for at least six hours per day. Strong intermediate riders are comfortable and competent in all three gaits; able to post or sit to the trot; have an independent seat while cantering (don’t hold onto the saddle); and can pick up the correct canter lead. They can also navigate more complex terrain, including asking a horse to sidestep and jump over a small obstacle.
Advanced
A frequent rider who is very fit, comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours per day, and has an independent seat and soft hands. Advanced riders are confident on a forward-moving horse at all paces over rough and variable ground on open terrain. They can ride over small jumps and know the techniques used to collect a horse
Not sure? Contact our team to help you figure out your riding ability.
Stories from the saddle
Globetrotting Guest Horse: Blueberry
If you’re heading to the Emerald Isle for our Castle and Estate Ride, you may be lucky enough to meet — and ride — the delightful Blueberry. A much-loved and beautifully mannered member of the estate’s stable, Blueberry is known for her calm temperament, willing nature, and ability to make riders feel instantly at home…
A Day in Dublin
If you’re heading to Ireland for our magical Castle and Estate Ride or Cross Country in Tipperary, chances are you’ll be planning a little extra craic before or after your time in the saddle. There’s no better place to do it than Dublin, the nation’s vibrant capital, where centuries of history, live music, and warm…
Horse Breed: Irish Sport Horse
Athletic, willing and quietly versatile, the Irish Sport Horse sits at the heart of Ireland’s equestrian tradition and is prized by riders for its balance of strength and generosity. Bred for stamina, soundness and an honest temperament, these horses are
