Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre

Take a horseback tour through the Upper and Lower Slaughter. Ideal for all levels, enjoy the exquisite Cotswolds scenery on an unforgettable ride.

Based in Bourton-on-the-Water, right next to Hawkstone Brewery, Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre is the ultimate way to take in the Cotswolds. Offering year-round hacks, these stables provide sublime, scenic rides around the picturesque villages of Lower and Upper Slaughter. Choose from a variety of options, from quick River Rides to longer Tourist Rides. (All include a photo opportunity)

For little ones, choose a ’15-Minute Meet and Greet’, where they can comfortably meet the ponies, pet them, brush them, and even go for a short ride for a photo opportunity.

For younger riders or complete novices, opt for a ’30-Minute River Ride’. You will head straight to Lower Slaughter for a quick paddle in the river, a photo, and then head back.

For those wanting a little more out of their experience, a ’45-Minute Beginner Ride’ or 1 Hour Beginner Ride’ is the perfect way to enjoy a longer hack at a pace you are comfortable with. They guide you through the gorgeous villages and into the rivers with confidence so you can sit back and enjoy the views!

Finally, for those with more riding experience, you can choose a ‘1-Hour Ride with Trot’. Visiting both Lower and Upper Slaughter, you are guided through these stunning locations at a walk, get photo opportunities in the rivers, and enjoy a trot to feel the wind in your hair.

Madeleine, our Content & Social Media Executive recently joined Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre for a ‘1-Hour Ride with Trot’. Here is what she had to say:

“It had been a while since I was last in the saddle, but all the staff made me feel so comfortable. You grab a pair of boots and a suitable riding hat, and then you’re introduced to your horse. I had Dana and she was gorgeous! You could instantly tell the amount of love and care that goes into these horses.

We set off and made our way to Upper and Lower Slaughter. The guided tour gave us sights and facts as we rode past the stunning scenery. We even rode into the river, where our photos were taken so we could remember the experience forever… the backdrop was stunning.

The trots were incredible and made me feel like I was in a film, it really was an experience that brought me so much happiness. After an hour of beaming smiles all round, we arrived back at the stables, dismounted, and were given a QR code to access our photos later.

I cannot recommend this place enough, and I will definitely be going back with any friend or family member who’s willing to come with me! That being said, most people were on a solo trip and were also made to feel confident and well looked after.

Anyone visiting who wants to take in the sights of the Cotswolds, and then nip to Hawkstone Brewery for a well-deserved drink after, will love this experience!”