Horse rides in England

This wonderful bridle trail explores Exmoor's ancient oak woodlands renowned for its excellent wildlife-spotting opportunities.Distance 4 miles (6½ km)Type ModerateTime 2 hoursWords and pictures: Sue Viccars

Medium distance Bridleway & mountain bike route (all BW and PP). Covers Barton Hills and Warden/Galley Hills Streatley.

It’s hard to believe in today’s world that once almost all roads would have been like the ancient tracks found on the Stanton Rides.

Start: Hill End Farm OS map 217Grid Ref: SO398876Telephone beforehand: Mr and Mrs Brian Williams 01588 680273(donation to charity for parking welcome - £2)

The Acton Scott RideOld Ways, Wild Views and RebellionStart: Acton Scott Farm Museum OS map 217Grid Ref: SO455897

Start at Manor Road Car Park, after crossing first road do not turn left down the hill, carry straight on

This is a circular route through Epping Forest, starting at the first car park on the left as you travel from Theydon Bois.  The route passes many car parks so you don't have to start here.The route sticks to the surfaced tracks, which makes it ideal for winter riding, when the unsurfaced tracks are closed.  The going is hard to medium, but there are places to canter on the softer tracks.A permit is required to ride in Epping Forest.  These are available from the visitors centre and are currently £5 per week.  Annual passes are available and are great value if you intend to ride here regularly.Below are a selection of images from the route, taken at various times of year.  There is plenty of wildlife to see including deer, squirrels, cattle, birds, as well as some really unusual fungi, including red and white toadstools.Route By:

It’s hard to believe in today’s world that once almost all roads would have been like the ancient tracks found on the Stanton Rides.

It’s hard to believe in today’s world that once almost all roads would have been like the ancient tracks found on the Stanton Rides.

It’s hard to believe in today’s world that once almost all roads would have been like the ancient tracks found on the Stanton Rides.