All that is needed is a corner of a field, or a spare stable to accommodate guests and their equine companions, although the standard of accommodation can vary enormously. While some people offer grazing near a campsite, others offer a splendid bed and breakfast service for both horse and rider, mucking out and feeding the horse while its owner is gastronomically indulged.
The BHS provides a directory of advertisers, but they are reticent about advising people of recommended prices and standards.
Hannah Brown, BHS publications officer explains: “We don’t run an approval scheme, but we do advise people who are responding to adverts to check out the facilities in advance so that they know what to expect.”
Prices vary from £20 for both horse and rider to £60 for both, although there is considerable variation: riders concerned about their horses can sacrifice their own comfort for that of their four-legged friends, while those who would rather ease sore muscles after a long day in the saddle can opt for ‘economy’ horse accommodation.
Bed and Breakfast for Horses is due for publication in the autumn, and the cost for entries is £37.60. For an additional £20, the entry will be placed on the BHS RIDE UK website (www.ride-uk.org.uk), which is dedicated to riding routes all over the UK.
To advertise, contact Hannah Brown, the Access Dept, The British Horse Society, Stoneleigh Deer Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2XZ, Tel: 01926 707813.
