Equestrian Venues in South Wales

South Wales packs a lot of riding into a compact area. The Brecon Beacons rise behind the valleys, the Gower offers coast and common, and pony trekking has deep roots here, going back to the days when it helped keep hill farms going. Saddl lists 19 venues, 10 BHS-approved. Trekking and hacking lead the way, often on sure-footed Welsh cobs and ponies bred for the ground, but you'll also find riding schools and competition yards on the lower, flatter land near Cardiff and Newport. The Beacons give serious hill riding for the experienced, while the commons and forestry suit steadier rides and beginners. The Gower coast adds beach riding in good weather. Prices are gentle compared with much of England, and the welcome at the trekking centres tends to be warm and unfussy. For families and visitors, the area is one of the easier places in Britain to get out on a pony without owning one. For riders based locally, the mix of hill, coast and valley within a short drive gives genuine variety. Mind the weather off the Beacons, which can turn fast.