Ellesmere Riding Center in Brecon Beacons National Park
Tucked on the edge of Llangorse Lake is a little piece of Welsh heaven that is more commonly known as Ellesmere Riding Center. We had a particularly windy day for our Brecon Beacons National Park horse riding holiday, but the horses were ready to explore.
Llangorse village in Wales
Our ride started out on the streets of Llangorse village, where local drivers knew to slow down when horses were present. Melissa Bois, an experienced guide, was both pleasant and calming to ride with on the paved streets and in the Black Mountains.
After the clip clop of horse hooves on the cement faded into the dirt of the countryside, our group of 6 equestrians split off into different paths. As we approached the mountain, the experienced father/daughter duo rode with owner Myfanwy Mitchell up to the top of Black Mountains. We opted for a scenic walk and trot trail ride at a lower elevation.
Horse rides for all levels
Regardless of riding experience, the routes take you through moorland and forest trails with jaw dropping views. In speaking with the father and daughter it was clear that Ellesmere Riding Center offered custom tailored riding holidays. The daughter was an accomplished equestrian and her congenial father agreed to all day hacks on the mountain. In short, this meant long canters in the Welsh countryside and a very happy daughter.
Relax and enjoy the ride
I confess that I was a bit nervous at first on my beautiful 16 hand Welsh Cob cross by the name of Captain. Remembering back on windy trail rides from my youth, my own horse had a tendency to get caught up in the swirl of leaves and bolt at plastic flapping in the wind. This was not a problem for Captain.
Melissa quietly told me to relax in the saddle and enjoy the ride. I was reminded that a confident rider translates to a confident horse. Her advice was spot on as Captain listened to my requests and moved on confidently on the trail.
Horse riding holidays in Brecon Beacons National Park
Ellesmere Riding Center has been providing horse riding holidays in Brecon Beacons National Park for over 50 years. There are currently 20 horses at the riding establishment. Started in 1966, it’s truly a small and friendly riding center. The horses are well cared for and the guides enjoy their work as much as the horses.
Need to know:
Ellesmere Riding Center is accredited by the Wales Trekking and Riding Association and licensed by Powys County Council.
Riding helmets are included in the price of the horseback ride.
Rides must be booked in advance.
What’s the difference between trekking and hacking? According to Ellesmere Riding Center, trekking is sightseeing on a horse, while hacking is horse riding at a faster pace.
Trail rides are available for half-day or full day. Credit cards are not accepted.
Insider Tips:
The scenery is stunning in this part of Wales. Take time to visit Llangorse Lake, the largest natural lake in southern Wales. Nearby is Pwll-y-Wrach, a lovely woodland Nature Reserve by Enig River with Witches Pool waterfall, a great place to enjoy a picnic. For additional insider tips follow luxury travel writer @Nancydbrown on Twitter or Instagram @Nancydbrown and Ellesmere Riding Centre on Facebook.
If You Go:
Ellesmere Riding Center (01874) 658252 mobile: 0771 110 0419 walestrails@hotmail.com
Langorse Lake, Brecon, Powys, LD3 7TR Wales
Brecon Beacons National Park Horseback Riding review, YouTube video and all photography by equestrian travel expert Nancy D. Brown. As is typically in the industry, I received a complimentary trail ride, however, all opinions are my own.