Things to do > Activities > Horse riding

Get in the saddle

Lovers of horse riding already know it's a fun and different way to see the countryside. So why not try it yourself?

As well as exploring quiet lanes, you can use Nottinghamshire’s network of designated routes. There are a few rules though. You must stick to the marked bridleways and byways as it's illegal to ride on a footpath. Bridleways are often waymarked with blue arrows and byways with red arrows. They're clearly marked on Ordnance Survey Landranger and Explorer maps, and they should be signposted where they leave a road.

On bridleways you may encounter cyclists, who can use them provided they give way to horse riders. And when riding on rights of way you must give way to walkers. Follow these basic instructions, and you're welcome to enjoy free rein of our beautiful countryside.

Routes in Notts

Nottinghamshire County Council has produced a pack of six circular horse rides called 'Exploring Nottinghamshire on Horseback'. It contains clear directions and maps for routes in:

• Sherwood
• Epperstone
• Hoveringham
• Clipstone
• Kimberley 
• Gotham

Meanwhile, the Midshires Way is a long distance route that passes through Nottinghamshire and links to the Pennine Bridleway. And you'll find various other route planning suggestions on the Nottinghamshire County Council website - click here to find out more.

If you're staying over in the city then check out our list of approved Nottingham hotels. Nottinghamshire and Sherwood Forest are great options for UK family holidays and our Robin Hood breaks website has everything you need. For that home away from home try our range of Nottingham bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) or our approved Nottingham holiday cottages.

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