County Fermanagh, with its shimmering lakes and rolling countryside, offers a picturesque setting for equestrian enthusiasts. Its scenic bridle trails and welcoming riding centres make it an ideal destination for those eager to explore on horseback.
A Historical Tie to Horses
Horses have long been part of Fermanagh’s rural heritage, integral to farming, transport, and local traditions. The county’s agricultural past relied heavily on horses, with many farms breeding them for work and sport. This legacy continues at places like Drumhoney Stables, where equestrian activities blend tradition with modern tourism. Fermanagh’s deep connection to horses provides a rich backdrop for visitors seeking to experience its landscapes through riding.
Development of Equestrian Tourism
Equestrian tourism in Fermanagh has grown through efforts to create accessible trails and modern facilities. Bridleways through the Fermanagh Lakelands and around Lough Erne offer riders serene routes across woodlands and open fields.
Centres like Drumhoney Stables and Erne Valley Equestrian have expanded opportunities, providing lessons, treks, and pony camps. These developments ensure Fermanagh remains a welcoming hub for riders of all skill levels.
Bridle Trails and Local Opportunities
Fermanagh’s bridle trails showcase its diverse landscapes, from the tranquil shores of Lough Erne to the forested paths of Castle Archdale.
- Drumhoney Stables, near Lisnarick, offers a new river trail and off-road routes through 50 acres of countryside, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Erne Valley Equestrian, located in Enniskillen, provides treks along quiet lanes and fields, with options for leisurely hacks or more challenging rides.
- Castle Archdale Riding Stables offers trails through its country park, blending lake views with woodland paths.
These trails cater to riders looking to explore Fermanagh’s natural beauty at their own pace.
Tour Operators and Facilities
Fermanagh is home to several operators and facilities catering to equestrian tourists.
- Drumhoney Stables, a Horse Society-approved centre, offers lessons, trekking, and children’s pony camps, with quiet animals for novices and schooled horses for advanced riders.
- Erne Valley Equestrian provides tailored experiences, including group lessons and countryside treks, with modern indoor and outdoor arenas.
- Castle Archdale Riding Stables, set within a historic park, offers guided rides and pony hire, ideal for families.
- Belle Isle Estate, with its equestrian facilities, provides bespoke riding experiences alongside accommodation, blending history with outdoor pursuits.
These facilities, equipped with modern amenities, ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
County Fermanagh:
Ireland’s county Fermanagh is a county of lakes and historic charm, with Lough Erne’s waterways offering boating and fishing amidst serene islands. Enniskillen Castle and its museums explore local history, while the Marble Arch Caves, part of a UNESCO Geopark, showcase stunning underground caverns. Other attractions include the historic Florence Court estate and its gardens. Fermanagh is Ireland’s 20th largest county by size (1,876 square km) and fourth smallest by population (63,585). Population peaked at 156,481 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 49,886 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Fermanagh is Ireland’s 28th most visited tourist county with around 43,000 international visitors per year.
Introduction – Adventure – Anthem – Archaeology – Attractions – Awards – Birdwatching – Camping – Castles – Churches – Contact list – Cycling – Dining – Equestrian – Festivals – Fishing – Folklore – Gardens – Golf – Graveyards – Happening – Haunted – Highest – Hiking – History – Holy Wells – Hotels – Hotels8 – Instagrammable – Itineraries – Largest town – Luxury – MICE – Movies – Musicians – Name – New – Novelists – Off the beaten track – Poets – Pubs – Quotes – Random Facts – Restaurant Awards – Sacred Places – Saints – Spas – Sports – Sunsets– Sustainable – Things to do – Towns – Video – Villages – Walking – Wanderlist – Weddings – Wild swimming – Writers – 1837 – 1846 – 1852 – 1909 – 1955 – 1980 –
Equestrian
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
