Responsible riding

Exploring the countryside with your horse is a good way to work on your horse’s fitness, and it is great for your health too.

Top tips for hacking out

• Make sure you're up to date on the Highway Code
• Read the Countryside Code for your country 
  • England and Wales Countryside Code
  • Scottish Outdoor Access Code
  • Northern Ireland Countryside Code
• Wear hi-vis, ideally on both you and on the horse, which could be seen from above as well as from the front, rear and side
• We recommend wearing LED lights
• Wear the correct clothing and equipment for riding or driving, and the weather conditions. 
• Take a mobile phone and check it is charged up before you go 
• Tell somebody where you are going and how long you think you will be out 
• If you are venturing on a new route, check the Ordnance Survey map before you go so you know where to go  
• Consider taking a foldable hoof pick and some baling twine in your pocket – you never know when they might come in handy 
• A leather headcollar under the bridle with a lead rope rolled up and clipped to your saddle is useful if you need to get off to lead in-hand

Riding on the road

• Read our information on horses & the Highway Code
• Wear hi-vis, ideally on both you and on the horse, which could be seen from above as well as from the front, rear and side
• Take our Ride Safe Award to give you the confidence to ride in all the most common environments, keeping you and your horse safe. It is also recognised in the Highway Code and recommended as best practice