This estate is home to 300 cross country jumps (including PLENTY of water obstacles) to leap, ping or pop over on a brave Irish horse. Miles upon miles of bridle paths (yep, that’s what they call trails in Ireland!) are sprawled across the 1000-acre grounds, flanked by ancient forests and open grazing pastures. The castle and surrounding estate is awash in history, and is one of the LAST great Irish estates still in the hands of its founding family.
Back to the equestrian wonderland, the indoor arena (let’s face it, this is a MUST in Ireland) has show jumping courses that will make your eyes water with excitement. We also love the flexibility of this holiday: non-riders will be welcomed with open arms (they can kayak, fish, walk the numerous trails, try clay target shooting or falconry, enjoy a hot air balloon ride or a carriage ride, and relax at the on-site spa) and riders of all abilities are welcome, too, from beginner through to advanced. The three unique equestrian programmes offer everything from mechanical horse and arena lessons to endless trail rides to cross country, show jumping and dressage.
Out of the saddle, you’ll feel like part of the royal family, accommodated at The Lodge, overlooking the equestrian centre. It’s known as one of the finest castle hotels in Ireland – so much so that former Beatle, Paul McCartney, and model Heather Mills got married at the Castle back in 2002.
For any globetrotter who has a desire to visit the Emerald Isle and ride the revered Irish horses, THIS ride is the perfect fit.
**If you are considering a UK or a European sojourn, have you seen some of the other UK rides we now offer? You could extend your trip to 10 days or a fortnight and sample a second or even a third ride to deepen or enhance the flavour of your trip to a full ‘Best of British Isles’ menu. We have designed the UK summer season to help you do exactly this, with one or two days between ‘complementary’ departures.
Fast Facts
- 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.
- Pace:Variable - depending on the program you choose. There are 3 riding programmes, designed to suit all riding levels and interests with dressage, 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.
- Type of tack:English all-purpose saddles and bridles.
- Seasons:Available year-round.
- Group size:Variable, but you can expect to ride in a group of no more than 6 people each day, often less.
- Time in Saddle:3 hours per day.
- Riding Ability:Beginner to advanced. There are 3 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? Watch THIS video to find out. - 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*
- Ride Length:5 day, 5 night and 3 day, 3 night itineraries are available. *Please note: 4, 6 & 7 day custom itineraries are available upon request.
- Inclusions:
The price includes all accommodation, 3 hours riding per day, breakfast and dinner.
- Exclusions:
The price does not include international or regional flights, travel insurance (compulsory), alcohol or transfers to and from the estate.
Lunch is also NOT included in the riding package, 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 & RATES
Custom departure dates are available year-round, subject to availability.
NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% interest-free payment plan!Please note: solo travellers are required to pay the single rider price, unless we can find another guest willing to twin share.
Child rate applies to children aged between 7 to 11 years only.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price includes all accommodation, 3 hours riding per day, breakfast and dinner.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price does NOT include international or regional flights, travel insurance (compulsory), alcohol or transfers to and from the ride.
Lunch is also NOT included in the riding package, 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.
Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. Depending on the ride you choose to book and your country of residence, there will be a 1.2% to 2.9% surcharge.
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.
Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All*Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.
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Important Itinerary Notes
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Winter Cross Country Special
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Transfer Information
What our valued Globetrotters say about The Castle & Estate Ride
Stephanie S.
‘As a new intermediate rider, this experience was absolutely perfect for me—like a luxurious version of the horse summer camp I send my kids to! I enjoyed two trail rides each day along with one flat work lesson, and my confidence truly soared. The pacing on the trail rides was just right, featuring plenty of trots and enough canters to leave me feeling exhilarated. The food and facilities were incredibly luxurious, and the spa became my favourite downtime activity. I can’t wait to return when I can jump, as that looked like so much fun! The horses and instructors were outstanding; I felt completely safe and supported throughout my journey. Five stars from me!’
Genevieve W.
‘The Castle & Estate Ride was truly one of my favourite experiences in life, and at 63 years old, I’ve had quite a few! Every day at Castle Leslie, the staff were simply impeccable, making me feel right at home. The stables were exceptional, and I was amazed by how well-trained the horses were. Each horse was kind and easy to ride, clearly knowing their job and doing it with such grace! Every single horse could jump; not one of them shied away from it. They soared over the jumps effortlessly and were steady throughout the ride. The Cross Country Rides through the beautiful forests and estate were absolutely intoxicating for me. I can’t recommend this experience enough!’
KIRRALEE D.
‘As a beginner rider still learning to canter, I was initially concerned about wasting my time and money on this experience, especially with the focus on Cross Country Riding. However, I am delighted to say that this ride was truly transformative for me. I felt I grew exponentially as a rider. The instructions and guidance I received were exceptional, and I felt very safe with both the horses and my instructors, both in and out of the arena. I left the experience excited about continuing my journey in horse riding as an adult and was already browsing the ride calendar to plan my next Globetrotting adventure.’
Ellie W
‘Globetrotting is addictive! I wish I had endless trips booked because it reminds me how much I love to ride. Even though I don’t have my own horse or ride as much as I’d like, or be as experienced as I would like, these trips wipe all those thoughts away and I’m nothing but happy and at peace. Our first cross-country lesson was a standout experience. I hadn’t jumped since being a child, and Steven really helped me regain my confidence. I felt very safe with my pony, Eric. I wish I could return as soon as possible!’
Emma W
‘The whole thing was magical, an incredible family experience. We loved the opportunity to walk through the castle and its grounds (laughing at the hordes of robot mowers cruising around), hang in the stable, help with tack and untack and relax in the Lodge terrace for an afternoon drink. As promised the breakfasts were excellent. Everyone was happy. Staff all round were very helpful. We loved all of the horses, Henry with the moustache who also did the carriage rides was a standout for his appearance. Russell was an incredibly beautiful gentle giant. The Lodge was simply a stunning place to stay.’
Lauri O
‘I just came back from the Castle & Estate ride in Ireland. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. My room at the Lodge overlooking the stable was perfect. I kept my window cracked every night so I could fall asleep to the quiet sounds of the yard. The food was incredible. I would put any meal up against the finest restaurants I have ever been to. I feel the staff went above and beyond to make my stay with them warm and inviting. As for the trainers and barn staff. I wanted to take them home with me. I feel that each one of them gave me a level of bravery I didn’t know I had. Each ride was a building block for the next. I loved that! Every moment I spent in the barn with the instructors and guides was so appreciated. The horses! Magical! All of them were magical. They are so well trained and know their job. Every ride was special. Thank you Globetrotting for the trip of a lifetime. I will be back!’
Kim H
‘The Castle & Estate ride was organised and well-guided by the engaging and experienced stable staff and riding instructors. The horses all have unique personalities and enjoy their assigned jobs. It is apparent that they are loved and well-cared for. The rides each day offered new journeys and adventures around and about the entire estate. The views of this lush green country and blue skies for days will be forever embedded in my heart. My room at the Lodge was quite nice and overlooked the stable; as a lifelong equestrian, I soaked in the view, smells, and sounds of the stable from my personal deck area at every opportunity. The food and dining experiences at every turn were TOP SHELF. I highly suggest that you bring your best-listening EARS for the plethora of riding instruction opportunities. I ride and show quarter horses, mainly western and the Hunter Under Saddle/Equitation (Flat). I am 58 years old and successfully jumped for the first time in my life. It was AWESOME. Amazing horses and INSTRUCTORS, just listen and let them guide you, even if it is different from how you’ve been taught. Learn. Live. Enjoy the Ride.’
Tarni K
‘The Castle & Estate ride was pure perfection. I had the pleasure of riding a lovely selection of horses over the six days but mainly stuck with my noble steed, Arnie, for XC. Every instructor was amazing, all so knowledgeable, making you get the most out of every ride. The scenery is WOW! I just want to spend all day out there on the hills, jumping XC jumps and riding through the forest. I didn’t want the ride to end. The accommodation had everything you needed, and the food was delicious at both restaurants. Can’t wait to book another holiday!’
Chelsey U
‘Where do I start? First off, the horses and trainers were amazing. For someone who used to ride western and hasn’t ridden constantly for quite few years I was not sure what to expect or if I even could Cross Country jump at all, but thanks to the incredible trainers and lovely horses I was doing all the jumps by the end of the week! I couldn’t have been more happy! The estate was absolutely beautiful, the accommodation was 10/10, and the two restaurants onsite had the best food I’ve ever had in my entire life. I would go back to for that! Overall, it was one of the best trips I have ever done in my life and far exceeded my expectations. I will be going back!’
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