Reviews

‘This was truly the trip of a lifetime! The accommodations were a horse lover’s dream, as everything was equestrian-themed, and even our balcony overlooked the stables. The horses were superb! You will no doubt find a favourite (or two) in the herd. I described more than a few of the horses as “perfect.” They know their job and take care of their rider. The estate grounds were so beautiful, and galloping through the fields over logs is something I have always dreamed of. The instructors were with us every step of the way, and I am a much better rider today because of them. I cannot wait to return and do this ride again!’

‘Our Castle & Estate Ride in Ireland was one of the best vacations we have ever had! The horses were great, the people were lovely, the countryside was beautiful, and we were lucky to have good weather. The Lodge was wonderful and perfect for those interested in horse riding. The rooms were super comfortable, the food was great, and the services provided were excellent. It was also conveniently located right next to the barn! During the trip, I rode four different horses. Russell, who was a towering 18.2 hands, was terrific in both the arena and during cross-country jumping. Arnie and Willow were my favourites and were also great jumpers. Lastly, there was Blueberry, who was very forward and a good jumper. It was an unforgettable experience, and we found both the Irish people and horses to be wonderful.’

‘What can I say about the Castle & Estate Ride? Galloping along rolling hills as far as the eye can see, riding cross-country on the most incredibly capable horses that make you feel like you can jump the moon, laughing with the lovely instructors, and getting to know the incredible array of horses. This ride was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for my friend and me. It’s Safe to say this ride was absolutely worth the wait, and I would do it again in a heartbeat.’

‘The Castle & Estate ride is such fun and was definitely a bucket list trip for my daughter and me. The horses were all willing and keen to go but patient with us as we learnt their buttons. The lessons in the arena were the perfect mix of challenging and fun, and the cross-country rides were a blast. Seeing my daughter’s big smile after jumping her first ditch while riding Eric (Eric the Wonder Pony, we called him) was absolutely priceless! The property is just beautiful, and it was lovely to explore. The lodge was comfortable and welcoming, and the food was delish. I can’t recommend this trip highly enough!’

‘I recently went on the Thirlestane Castle ride for the second time and it was once again an amazing experience that exceeded my expectations. The team treated us like family, and it was a privilege to be part of such a united group. They went above and beyond to ensure our comfort throughout the week. I had the pleasure of riding Acropolis, a beautiful dapple grey with a sweet face and kind eyes. He definitely lived up to his reputation as a steady eddy and took great care of me for the entire week. If I could I would book this trip every year without hesitation!’

‘From the moment I arrived, I felt like I was in a magical dream! Walking through the tranquil grounds, a sense of peace and calm comes over you. You can take pictures, but nothing truly captures the lushness and beauty. The horses were the highlight; they were friendly and responsive and knew and loved their job! The lessons build on each other each day, and by the end, I felt a huge confidence boost and improvement in my riding. There is a great selection of food and cocktails and the village is great to walk through. I am already saving to come back next year!’

‘The Castle and Estate Ride was just fabulous. I was a solo rider in a foreign country, yet it felt like I was meant to be there. The staff, estate and horses are all incredible. If you love amazing food, wonderful people, stellar horses and instructors, this is the ride for you! They even arranged a private cross country ride for me because I was a bit intimidated – I did it, and it was epic!’

‘The Castle & Estate Ride was my dream vacation, and it did not disappoint! The facility, grounds, horses and staff were all phenomenal. I felt so comfortable, safe and at home during my trip. I had never jumped cross-country before and was a bit nervous, but with the training from the staff and feeling so confident in the horses, it was no problem. I had an amazing time. I can’t wait for my next Globetrotting trip!’

‘I booked this ride as a graduation gift for my daughter, but it was postponed twice due to Covid, so it was hard to believe it was actually going to happen. Nonetheless, the trip exceeded our expectations. My daughter was so happy and smiling the entire time, proclaiming it the best vacation ever! The horses and instructors were fantastic and the accommodations and food were top notch. We met some other wonderful people who share our love of horses and feel like we made friends for life! Can’t wait to return!’

‘Just imagine riding through ancient, magical, emerald green countryside as you breathe the soft Irish air and spot deer, cows, sheep, hawks and swans. Imagine flying over increasingly higher jumps on all weather trails as you build confidence in your ability to jump cross-country on well looked after, well trained, soft-mouthed, responsive horses. Imagine galloping up the rolling hills at the end of another super day on brave, fast and happy steeds. All this along with absolutely superb accommodation and fabulous food in an ancient castle and estate. Every day was a dream come true.’

‘Sunny Ireland! Cross country riding throughout the beautiful estate was a time for contemplation while walking through the woods, and a fabulous sense of freedom while cantering across the green, green fields! I enjoyed all the horses I rode, and it was a good experience to try different characters and styles. They were all well mannered, safe and wonderful. The staff were attentive, kind and filled with Irish sparkle and charm. Hanna and Orla were fantastic guides with an incredible eye to help each of us learn and have a fabulous ride. Each day had something special.’

‘Laura from Globetrotting really went the extra mile for me to make sure I got the right ride for my experience level, and this was a truly magical trip! I rode Charlie, TJ, Eric and Bumble. Our guides and instructors all took great care of us, catering to a few different levels of expertise. I hadn’t jumped in years and although she was big, Bumble did not make the jumps feel big, and packed me reliably over everything we were pointed at. What a sweetie! If any of the pictures you see of this ride look appealing, multiply the appeal a hundred times! Save your pennies and go!’

‘Thank you, Globetrotting, for this amazing experience! My sister, mum and I spent three incredible horse-filled days on the Castle and Estate Ride in Ireland. I am home now, but still not down from the high of this amazing holiday! Everything was incredible. Wonderful staff, guides, accommodation, food, scenery and of course the beautiful horses! I rode Arnie, Russell, Blueberry, Bumble and Charlie. I loved them all, especially Russell and Charlie. To be able to ride over cross country jumps was not something I thought I would ever do again, but I did, and what a thrill! I’m definitely hooked and will be back for more!’

‘My husband and I had the most wonderful time on the Castle & Estate ride! It exceeded all of our expectations. The accommodations were so luxurious, the food was excellent, the horses and instructors were wonderful, and the estate itself was unbelievably expansive and beautiful! I rode out seven times, and on every single ride I saw a new section of the estate. I had so much fun flying over jumps on Domino and galloping through the woods on Robin. I literally couldn’t help but laugh because I was having so much fun. I only wish we could have stayed longer!’

‘I could not possibly find any critique of this ride! The instructors far surpassed my expectations. I rode Blueberry and Arnie. Both horses were big, comfortable, and trustworthy; but different enough that I left with plenty to work on back at home. The horses and the team of instructors made me feel 100% safe to try many things for the first time. We arrived on Wednesday, my first ever jumping lesson was on Thursday, and I was clearing some cross country jumps by Sunday! I only wish I could have made this a month-long holiday! The staff at the Lodge and restaurants were lovely, the food was second to none, and the accommodations were beautiful. This ride was recommended to me as a confidence booster, and I truly believe that was an understatement.’

‘The accommodation was fabulous and the food was excellent. All the guides were fantastic, knowledgeable, friendly, accommodating and our safety was their top priority. I rode Cosmo, Arnie, Mary Ellen, Charlie, Bumble and Henry. I loved Cosmo for the indoor riding sessions and Charlie was my favourite for the cross country rides – although Arnie, the big flying armchair, was a close second. The cross country jumping on the last day with Charlie was definitely a highlight. I galloped for the first time ever out in the field with the rest of the group. Another first for me was jumping up a set of two steps coming out of the water. I would definitely recommend this ride!’

‘An absolutely stunning holiday! The instructors at the stable were amazing and incredibly accommodating, knowledgeable, and personable. As beginners, my friend and I did a lot of estate rides rather than jumping and cross country and every day they had something new to show us, and something new to teach us about how to handle the horses better. On top of the incredible instructors, the other staff at the estate were great as well. We had great craic!’

‘I can say without reservation that this trip was far beyond any expectation that I had! It’s always been a dream of mine to visit Ireland and now I know I will return. The facilities were beautiful and the staff were magnificent! I will carry the memories from this week with me and always look on them fondly. The food and drinks were amazing! I want to especially thank the instructors, who gave me the chance to ride out on the gorgeous estate even though I am a beginner. Every day took me down new trails, allowing me a glimpse of the rich history of the people and place I was so fortunate to visit.’

‘I would definitely recommend this ride! I rode Cosmo, Betty, TJ, Robin and Bumble, and they were all lovely. They knew their jobs so well, all I needed to do was direct them to the jumps and sit quietly. The cross country jumping was the best experience. All the guides were happy and helpful. I was very happy with the accommodation and food, and the value for money was excellent.’

‘This was my first Globetrotting ride and it really has set the bar sky high! Honestly, this was the best holiday I have ever had. I was a little nervous to begin with, travelling solo and being at beginner level, but all my worries very quickly evaporated when I checked in to the gorgeous accommodation, met the lovely horses and made some wonderful new globetrotting friends. The Estate is stunning, the food is delicious and the guides are so knowledgeable and friendly. I trusted them all so much, I felt confident to try many new things – it was my first time jumping in five years and they made it so easy! The itinerary was just perfect – each day built on the last to grow the confidence of all the riders. Jumping cross country has been a lifelong dream of mine, and what a way to start! I am a much better rider after this trip and I am already looking at the diary for when I can go back!’

‘My friend and I started talking about a riding trip to Ireland 20+ years ago. We contacted Globetrotting in 2019 and booked for 2020 as a group of four, but Covid-19 put a stop to that. Kate and her team worked with us, letting us reschedule twice for our choice of date and number of days. We finally made the trip in 2022 and I am so happy we did. The memories we made will not be forgotten. Everyone in Ireland is so kind and happy. The ride was more than we could ever have asked for. Every day was a wonderful experience. The landscape was gorgeous and the company was beyond fun. All four of us were able to fulfill our goals: one cantered out on the trail for the first time, another jumped higher than she ever had, and my friend and I fulfilled our dream of riding in Ireland. I felt like my riding improved and my love of the sport was reignited. Everything about the trip and the arrangements made by Globetrotting made it easy and fun. I would recommend Globetrotting to anyone who loves riding and is looking for an adventure.’

‘This was the ride of a lifetime. The Irish countryside combined with the romantic castle setting, the cleanest village in Ireland, the excellent instructors and the well-kept and reliable horses, all made for such a very special time. The inclusion of a spa on-site was a great bonus. My companions on the ride were all friendly, and we all felt incredibly well looked after. I rode a variety of very reliable horses, all making me feel safe. As one of the older riders in the group, I felt well cared for. The guides were the best! They all had sense of humour and safety, and provided confidence to all. Lessons were well conducted with a positive atmosphere, and suited to the needs of the students. The sights, smells, flora and fauna of the country trails were a real treat. There were even herds of deer to observe on our rides. This trip was everything I expected, and more.’

‘This was a trip of a lifetime! Such a beautiful place. The castle and estate were out of a fairytale! The horses were all amazing and knew exactly how to take care of you. I rode 6 horses in total and loved them all. My favorite was Russell, the 18-hand draft who sailed over jumps effortlessly. The ride guides and instructors were so knowledgeable and friendly. They made the experience so fun and built up everyone’s confidence! The group of women who traveled on this trip from all over the world were some of the most friendly and supportive people I have had the pleasure of knowing. I cannot wait to go back!’

‘We are speechless…. this trip definitely exceeded our expectations! Words can’t describe it. I wouldn’t even know where to start. The service was outstanding. The scenery was magnificent. The food was delicious. Hangover free beers, and believe us, we tested it! The horses were incredible – I rode Mary Ellen, Charlie, Henry, Bumble and Russell. Their disposition and high level of training was amazing! The instructors were extremely caring, professional, and outstanding riders – they made me feel so safe. In short, everything was phenomenal!’

‘The Castle and Estate Ride in Ireland was a dream vacation. I had thought about going on a Globetrotting vacation for a very long time and am so glad I finally did! It pushed me out of my comfort zone and the rides were exhilarating! My favourite moments were my first ever canter through the forest and a very exciting gallop across a field. I had wonderful horses – Bumble and Jessica. I am already planning my next Globetrotting trip!’

‘Signing up for my first Globetrotting ride was easy and Laura and Kate were amazingly helpful, providing advice, scheduling, suggestions, answers and basically making me feel like everything was taken care of. Payments were super simple, and the preparation materials provided were exceptionally helpful!
Words cannot even begin to describe how wonderful this trip was. I hadn’t ridden in 15 years and was honestly terrified they’d just send me home! But I had nothing to worry about, it’s clear Globetrotting picks their partners with care. An amazing group of very supportive and knowledgeable instructors, plus the BEST stable of horses to take you from nervous beginner to soaring intermediate (in my case at least!). Pair that with gorgeous surroundings, sumptuous rooms and services and belt-challenging meals and you have a winning combination. It’s no wonder I booked the same package again for next year! I will also be on the lookout to join other Globetrotting rides, confident in the knowledge that I’m in safe (and fun) hands!’

‘An amazing luxury week in beautiful Irish countryside, surrounded by lovely people. The castle and estate is beautiful and well set up. Everything you need is right there, with wonderful staff. The close proximity of the equestrian centre and the lodge, and the integration of the two, made for an incredible experience full of luxury and convenience!
The horses are all lovely and safe. I rode Summer, Bumble, Squire, Arnie, Traveller, Blueberry and Wilson. The last day of cross country riding was the highlight of the week, especially jumping a few of the bigger jumps on the course.
Overall, the week was absolutely worth every cent. The scenery was lovely, the lodge and estate provided a luxury week away, the horses were well cared for. All the riding instructors were lovely, helpful and fun. The staff at the lodge were also great, going out of their way to help with anything, including ringing the chocolate shop to open up for us!’

‘A fantastic experience with the atmosphere of a stately home complete with lots of memorabilia, and enjoyable riding in beautiful, colourful countryside having great fun over cross country fences. It didn’t matter if it rained, it was an awesome time catching up with wonderful friends, and meeting new ones who were riding in Ireland for a myriad of reasons. Unbelievable Irish fun with delicious breakfasts and meals. Feeling so very lucky. Must be the shamrock!’

‘We had a wonderful time on the Castle & Estate Ride and made some great friends. Every day was different but wonderful! I especially enjoyed our lovely night up in Snaffles Restaurant with a few of the other girls on the ride – the staff treated us like royalty. A big thank you to all staff at the lodge and equestrian centre, especially Tina, Emma, Chris, Orla and Briggetta. Wonderful, experienced staff and a lot of fun.’

‘From Tina at the reception desk to all the guides, we had excellent service and were well cared for. Everyone was friendly and loads of fun. My friend and I were so pleased to see how well the horses are treated by not only the trainers but all the staff we saw interacting with them. They were well fed and the staff have a good handle on what each horse needs and enjoys.
When we were discussing this trip, I told my friend I did not want to canter as I was not comfortable going that fast on unfamiliar horses. Once we got to meet these gentle giants, though, all we wanted to do was canter! We were always excited about our daily rides and lessons. I had the opportunity to ride four different horses. I especially LOVED Arnie. I would have packed him in my luggage if he fitted! He was my jumping horse and I enjoyed every minute on him.
The castle is gorgeous! The rooms were far better than we expected. The balcony overlooking the stables was a great place to wind down. Having two restaurants on-site made life much easier and the food was delicious!’

‘The horse riding – wow! The equestrian team were fun and professional, and so supportive. I had an absolute ball. Miss Bumble was my favourite horse. Big, confident and free moving, we often led the group rides on the estate. On one ride we galloped leading the group for a mile, and it felt like the two of us were one body, one mind. I’ll never forget the freedom of those moments.

The activities organised for my husband Keith, a non-rider, were excellent, and run by professionals doing their jobs so well. You could not wipe the smile from Keith’s face after the clay pigeon shooting, so I decided I’d join in for the falconry, and just wow! Brian the bird handler’s level of expertise love for his birds was inspiring.

All the staff were interactive and fun. We both had the best time. For me, when Keith said he wished we could stay longer when I was supposedly the reason we were there… well, that just made it even more special. I’d encourage riders with non-riding partners to put this experience at the top of their list.’

‘This was a fabulous adventure. I loved Ireland and the Castle. My room was beautiful, and best of all it overlooked the stables! I loved looking out and seeing horses morning and evening. I rode a range of horses and was very happy with the variety. I loved riding out on the trails and discovering little bits of castle history along the way. I would definitely recommend this ride. It’s completely tailored to your needs.’

‘I’ve just finished the Castle and Estate Ride. What a beautiful spot. The Castle and family have so much history! It’s fascinating. This is a perfect ride for beginners, those who are just getting back in the saddle and those who have lost a little confidence. The coaches are just lovely. The horses are absolute gems. They are gentle giants – a lot of easy fun and they certainly look after you. The staff are lovely, the food is delicious, and the accommodation magnificent – the best sleep I’ve had in a long time.’

‘The Castle & Estate Ride was any horse rider’s paradise: riding twice a day (you’re in riding clothes from breakfast to dinner) – it’s the riding boot camp you always wanted to go to as a kid but can now afford as an adult! From fundamental indoor jumping and flat lessons to joyful canters through the forest, over logs and through ponds, riders at every level from beginner to advanced will be challenged and delighted with every ride, every day. Extra bonus: the accommodation and food are INCREDIBLE! Ride all day, laugh, drink and eat all evening, then do it all again tomorrow. I miss it already! I cannot recommend Globetrotting more highly!’

‘Great food, divine hotel, beautiful gardens and horse riding – the Castle & Estate Ride was my absolute dream holiday. Three hours a day of riding with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the Irish countryside. Ireland is known for its storytelling and the best stories were those shared with my fellow globetrotters. How wonderful to meet so many new horse loving friends to explore, learn and laugh with!’

‘The Castle & Estate Ride was a fairytale wonderland from the castle, to the spectacular grounds, amazing horses, delicious food and the helpful staff. The instructors were very helpful and knowledgeable. Our last day when we went out to the cross country course, did lots of jumping and galloped through the water right before the storm was epic. A day I will remember for a long time. I am so happy I booked this trip! I would do it again and again. Thank you so much, Globetrotting.’

‘The Castle & Estate Ride is an equestrian oasis combining luxury and relaxation with sensational food and amazing riding all tied up together in one delightfully satisfying package. Every day presented a new delight and a new reason to smile and be glad I was there. All the horses I rode were well educated and enjoyable to ride. Whether in flat work or jumping, they were safe, willing mounts. I fell in love with each of them. The instructors and guides were friendly and knowledgeable. The careful attention to detail when it came to looking after the horses and people was wonderful to see.’

‘I learned a lot and gained a lot of confidence on this trip. It’s reignited my passion for riding, dusted off a few cobwebs and allowed me to overcome some personal challenges. There were so many highlights. The second day jumping in the arena was amazing – I felt like we flew round the whole course without even thinking about it. It was so great to feel that sense of accomplishment and progress. My favourite ride was the second day of cross country, followed by the final day’s estate ride. I also loved the arena lessons. I’m just going to say all of it was my favourite! It was a perfect return-to-riding experience for me. I got my mojo back. Bring on the next adventure!’

‘This ride has to be one of the most wonderful and enjoyable weeks you could have with horses. Everything is 10/10. The estate is so beautiful and old, with amazing history. The Lodge is warm, comfortable, and has great service. The food is all top quality. The horses are all well trained and safe. It has everything that a jumping enthusiast could want. It doesn’t matter whether you are experienced or nervous, they cater for everyone. It really is an amazing ride.’

‘This was my first Globetrotting experience. It was totally exhilarating – and I will be sure to book another ride!!!’