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Horseback Riding in Ireland

Castle Leslie Equestrian Center

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Overview

The private Castle Leslie Estate covers 1,000 secluded acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes; the perfect location for a horse-riding holiday. The estate sits just behind the  lodge.

There are 300 cross-country jumps including natural obstacles such as rivers, ditches, fallen tree trunks, hedges, stone walls, drops and banks in many shapes and sizes. You can also explore the estate on 21 miles of bridleways.

Accommodations

You stay in the large gothic-style lodge, which is now the Estate’s 4-Star Hotel.

Meals & Drink

Breakfast and dinner included, lunch options available on site.

Ride & Horse Details

  • Overview:
    The horses range from the “babysitter” for the more novice rider to typical Irish Hunters, which provide more of a challenge to the experienced rider. There are approximately 30 horses and ponies at the center. You will be riding a variety of horses during your stay. The tack is English.
  • Horse Breeds:
    Irish Hunter, Connemara
  • Trip Pace:
    To suit riders (see program options)
  • Tack:
    English
  • Weight limit:
    220 lbs

Activities for Non - Riders

While riders are on horseback, there are no separate activities planned for non-riders, who can enjoy the accommodations and region independently. Options include:
The Victorian Spa at the hunting lodge: This is Ireland’s first truly organic Victorian Spa where you can spend the whole day indulging in a comprehensive range of treatments and therapies. It’s also the perfect place to ease your weary muscles after a day spent riding. You can book any treatment directly at the spa, which is located in the hunting lodge - this is at your own expense.

Other activities available on the Estate:
- in the village of Glaslough and in the local area, there are lots of exceptional walks from short jaunts to long leisurely strolls

In the local area:
- shopping in Monaghan town just 10 minutes away or in Armagh City, just 25 minutes away
- Golf – there are four 18 hole Golf courses within an hours drive of the estate:

Rossmore Golf Club: 15-20 minutes away; phone +353 (0) 47 71222
Nuremore Golf Club: 45 minutes away, phone +353 (0) 42 9661438
Greenore Golf Club: 50 minutes away, phone +353 (0) 42 9373678
Slieve Russell Hotel: 60 minutes away, phone +353 (0) 49 26444

Meeting Point

Mid-afternoon, at Castle Leslie Estate in Glaslough.

Tour Itinerary

The following programs are available:

Equi-Beginner: for beginner riders who want to gain a basic foundation of riding through lessons and trail riding around the estate; 3 hours riding a day. Each rider will receive a series of lessons culminating in a 2 hour ride around the estate.

Equi –Trek: for anyone who enjoys the simple pleasure of exploring the countryside on horseback. This package involves daily rides on the estates; 3 hours riding per day.

Equi-Improve: for the more experienced rider wanting to improve their riding ability. This package incorporates a mix of lessons in show jumping, cross-country and dressage as well as trail rides on the estate; 3 hours riding per day.

Day 1

Sample itinerary (Equi-Improve Program)
Arrive at the at Castle Leslie in time to take part in an assessment lesson at 4:15pm. Enjoy dinner at Conor’s Bar in the hunting lodge.

Day 2

Breakfast is served daily from 7:30am onwards. Afterwards start with a two hour estate ride from 10am-12pm. Break for lunch, and have an afternoon lesson starting at 3-4pm.

Day 3

Day 3 through Day 5: The riding program is the same each day. Riders are accompanied by a guide/instructor and ride with a group of similar ability, usually no larger than six riders.

Day 6

Enjoy a final two hour morning ride, with time to shower and change before check out by 1pm.

Itinerary Addendum

This itinerary is flexible.

Tour Map

Tour Dates & Pricing

For 2024 and 2025 bookings, 5 night stays are from Sunday to Friday each week, for a mid-day arrival on Sunday and departure Friday after the morning estate ride. Other dates may be available upon request and checking on space with the estate. It is open from 01 Jan to 15 Dec 2024 and closed over Christmas. In 2025 the estate is open from 01 Jan to 16 Dec 2025 and closed over the holidays.

2024 Departures & Options

Pricing & Options

  • Base Price
  • $2,340includes accommodations in the hunting lodge, 5 night stay; non-rider rate $1,550
  • Pricing Variation
  • $1,440

    3 night stay; non-rider rate $965

  • $1,8754 night stay; non-rider rate $1,260
  • Single Supplement
  • $780
    3 night stay: $625;  4 night: $660

2025 Departure Dates and Pricing Options

Pricing & Options

  • Base Price
  • $2,740includes accommodations in the hunting lodge, 5 night stay; non-rider rate $1,810
  • Pricing Variation
  • $1,6903 night stay; non-rider rate $1,135
  • $2,1904 night stay; non-rider rate $TBA
  • Single Supplement
  • $910
    3 night stay: $765; 4 night stay $730
Additional Pricing Information:
Prices are based on the dollar/euro exchange and are subject to change. Ride price is set, guaranteed, and final at the time deposit is paid.  


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Do you have questions about this tour itinerary? Do you want to make sure that this it is the right tour for you? Or are you ready to book? Please call or email our experienced and friendly ride consultants for more detailed information. With first-hand knowledge of the exciting tours we offer, the tour consultants at Equitours look forward to answering any questions you might have

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1.800.545.0019

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Contact Biggi Hayes

Equitours was tremendously helpful and prompt. We got our ride off quickly and without any trouble! The woman who ran the Equestrian Center was delightful and very organized. They were all ready for us upon arrival. We rode with several of the staff but mostly with one person, who  was FANTASTIC! This ride suited all levels of riders. We saw total beginners there being treated with utmost care, and we were on the advanced end of the spectrum and it held our attention completely. The ride provided so many high points and will be remembered!

Debbie Kirsch, 2013

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