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
• Custom ride lengths (minimum 3 nights)
• 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
- 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
Ride length
• 4 days, 3 nights
• Custom ride lengths (minimum 3 nights)
• 6 days, 5 nights
Riding level
Beginner • Intermediate • Strong Intermediate • Advanced
Booking fee
A fixed Booking Fee of €90 EUR
Payment plans
Lock in your ride with a 10% deposit and pay the rest over time – interest-free in 10 easy payments. Learn more.
Accommodation types
Single
Private accommodation for one guest (room, tent, or similar). A supplement may apply on departures where a sharing option is available.
Share
Willing to room share with the same gender or travelling with a companion.
Couple share
Sharing a bed with companion.
Non-rider
Sharing a room with a riding companion.
Per person
CUSTOM DEPARTURE DATES 2026
are available all year round upon request and subject to availability.
Prices listed in this table are for 5-night stays.
(3-night stays begin at €1635 EURO per person twin share.)
2026
5-night Horse Sport
March 1 to 6, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
March 8 to 13, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
March 15 to 20, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
March 22 to 27, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
March 29 to April 3, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
April 5 to 10, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
April 12 to 17, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
May 3 to 8, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
May 10 to 15, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
May 17 to 22, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
May 24 to 29, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
May 31 to June 5, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
June 14 to 19, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
June 28 to July 3, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
July 5 to 10, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
July 26 to 31, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
August 2 to 7, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
August 9 to 14, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
August 16 to 21, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
August 23 to 28, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
August 30 to September 4, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
September 6 to 11, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
September 13 to 18, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
September 20 to 25, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
September 27 to October 2, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
October 4 to 9, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
October 11 to 16, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
October 18 to 23, 2026
5-night Horse Sport
October 25 to 30, 2026
The fun bits
Payment details
- A fixed Booking Fee of €90 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.
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Happy Hackers Program
All riding abilities welcome (must be able to ride at a walk, rising trot & canter).For anyone who enjoys the simple pleasure of exploring the countryside on horseback. After the assessment lesson, the riding consists of delightful trail rides around the estate with some lessons to further progress your riding skills in the indoor arena.
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.
-
Day 1: Arrival & Assessement 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).
-
Day 2: Flatwork Foundations & Estate Wandering
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.)
You’ll then start your morning with a flatwork lesson to get acquainted with your horse and tune your partnership. In the afternoon, head out for a blissful estate ride, soaking up the sweeping scenery and settling into the rhythm of life on the estate.
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: Finesse in the Arena
3 hours in the saddleAnother morning in the arena refines your balance, clarity and communication in the saddle. After lunch, wander deeper into the estate on a two-hour ride, riding past grazing cattle and threading through woodlands whispering with Irish folklore.
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: Intro to Jumping
3 hours in the saddleJust another day waking up in the stunning grounds of a castle – say what?!
Today brings a delicious flutter of excitement – your introduction to jumping with the guidance of expert instructors and the steady brilliance of your Irish Sport Horse. In the afternoon, unwind with another dreamy estate ride across the castle grounds.
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Day 5: Favourite Bridle Paths
3 hours in the saddleReturn to the arena for a final flatwork session designed to bring everything together. Then head back out into the estate for an afternoon of pure, unhurried riding joy – whether that’s splashing through streams, exploring new paths or revisiting your favourite stretches of open pasture.
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Day 6: Final Estate Ride & Departure
2 hours in the saddleSavour a final two-hour ride across the estate, letting the beauty of the Irish countryside seep into your bones one last time. After farewells to the horses and the castle team, begin your journey home, full to the brim with new skills, confidence and memories from one of Ireland’s most magical equestrian escapes.
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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, an 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 €170 for one guest one way, €80 pp for 2-5 guests one way, or €70 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 (both are subject to availability). 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
Caitlin S
Alison B
Isabelle C
Susanne K
Stephanie S
Genevieve W
KIRRALEE D
Ellie W
Emma W
Lauri O
Kim H
1 ride with GlobetrottingTarni K
Chelsey U
Tracy K
Erica B
Rudolf Jaffe
Melissa Sammut
Rianna Stoll
Melissa A
Emily Price
Kellie Paul
Heather S
Patricia Faust
Debbie Walker
Christina Sandel de Labouchere
Nancy Berg
Moira Fisher
Rachel Jones
Hope Towle
-3 rides with GlobetrottingYvonne David
Marshall Waters
Richard Phillips
Susan Trinity
Lindsey Sokolich
Florence Holcomb Phillips
Anna Avery
Danielle Smith
Anastasia Bulkley
Sandra Goldsworthy
Tamsyn Brownie
Zara Vallance
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.

















































