Riding out and hacking

If you’re venturing out riding or carriage driving, you should know where you can go, and what your rights and responsibilities are for where you live.

For many equestrians, hacking out is part of a weekly routine. Whether you are riding on the road or off-road, it is important to know your responsibilities as an equestrian to remain as safe as possible.

There are many beautiful off-road routes on MOD land that are accessible for you to enjoy. Make sure you stay safe by wearing hi-vis clothing and plan your hack before setting off.

Riding along the sandy stretches, taking in the coastal views and filling your lungs with the fresh sea-air. Riding on the beach can be a wonderful experience – on your own horse or through at a BHS Approved Centre.

Many of the bridleways and traditional riding routes in the uplands are ancient tracks linking one valley with another. 

The ability to safely open and close gates from horseback is an important skill for both horse and rider to learn, and an essential part of a rider’s toolkit for off-road hacking.

Equestrians and cyclists are both vulnerable road users. We both share similar risks when riding on the road, and we need access to more safe off-road riding.

Livestock, horses or dogs can sometimes prevent people using a right of way if the behaviour of the animals is threatening or dangerous.

We don't think of our lovable companions as predators or prey, but by nature, dogs are predators and horses are prey animals – a combination that can cause issues.

Equestrians and runners are both vulnerable road users, and we share similar risks when using the road and off-road tracks. 

Many farmers use bird scarers and gas guns to protect their crops from damage by birds. However, passing horses may also get scared or spooked by these, which can cause distress or injury to both horse and rider.

Some road surfaces can be slippery and can cause horses to slip or even fall.