London and its surrounds offer enchanting horseback adventures that are perfect for a romantic date or getaway. From trotting through royal parks amid wandering deer to cantering in the countryside with pub lunches, these private riding experiences let couples connect amidst nature’s beauty.
Here are five exclusive horse riding experiences in and around London that cater to couples and promise unforgettable memories.
Explore one of London’s most iconic parks on horseback with a private ride for two through Hyde Park. This stable (est. 1835) offers a unique opportunity to trot side by side along Rotten Row and around the Serpentine lake, right in the heart of the city. Location: Hyde Park, Central London – enter via Bathurst Mews stable gate
Why It’s Romantic: Iconic scenery (gardens, lakes, and city skyline glimpses) creates a storybook setting. Couples can ride side by side on semi-private hacks (just the two of you plus your escort) for an intimate experience.
Highlights: Year-round rides are available, and no prior riding experience is required – the stables cater to all levels with friendly instructors and calm horses. You can request a private ride for just you two or join a semi-private session if you both have similar abilities.
Riding in Hyde Park lets you feel worlds away, even as London’s landmarks peek through the trees. Many describe it as an “amazing experience… with happy horses and superb staff” (as one TripAdvisor review noted).
Price Range: Approximately £115 per person for a one-hour semi-private ride (two riders) or £145 per person for a one-on-one private ride (Prices include your horse, helmet hire, and an escort rider.)
For a fairy-tale riding date, Richmond Park in southwest London provides the perfect backdrop. Stag Lodge Stables sits right at the park’s edge, giving couples direct access to miles of leafy bridleways through London’s largest royal deer park.
You’ll feel a world away from the city as you wander under ancient oak trees and open meadows where herds of red and fallow deer graze freely. It’s hard to top the romance of riding two-by-two in this vast, tranquil parkland that dates back to 1625 – you might even catch a glimpse of the sunset over the hills or Richmond’s skyline in the distance.
Location: Richmond Park, South-West London – Stag Lodge Stables (Robin Hood Gate)
Why It’s Romantic: The park’s natural beauty (wild deer, woodland trails, ponds, and panoramic viewpoints) sets a dreamy atmosphere.
Couples can book private or semi-private hacks, so it’s just the two of you and a guide.
Imagine trotting together down a tree-lined path as deer cross in the distance – it feels like a period drama come to life.
In summer, the stables even organize evening “pub rides” on Fridays, where you ride to a quaint inn at the park’s edge for a drink. You can also bring along a picnic to enjoy on the grass after your ride, making the day even more special.
Highlights: Experienced instructors tailor the ride to your skill level – whether you prefer a gentle walk or an exhilarating canter. All levels are welcome, from beginners to seasoned riders.
You’ll learn fun tidbits about the park’s history (it was once King Charles I’s hunting ground) and wildlife as you ride.
Many couples rave about the friendly guides and well-cared-for horses that make the experience enjoyable and safe. Riding here really “feels a world away from the city” with “idyllic vistas and plenty of space to ride”.
Price Range: £64–£76 per person for a 1-hour semi-private hack (two riders) depending on weekday vs weekend.
Private one-on-one rides are also available (around £80–£93 per person for an hour). Longer hacks (e.g. 90-minute morning rides or special pub ride events) may cost a bit more. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially for weekend slots.
Treat your loved one to a royal-worthy riding experience in Windsor Great Park, just outside London. Tally Ho Stables, based by the park in Englefield Green, offers private guided hacks through this historic 4,800-acre parkland – famously the former hunting grounds of Windsor Castle.
As a couple, you can ride side by side down the tree-lined trails with a backdrop of Windsor Castle’s turrets on the horizon. The route might take you down the majestic Long Walk (an avenue leading straight to the castle) and past landmarks like the picturesque Virginia Water Lake and the towering oak forests.
Keep an eye out for wild red deer here too! This exclusive ride truly lets you “feel like royalty” for the day.
Location: Windsor Great Park, Berkshire (about 40 minutes west of London) – Tally Ho Stables, Englefield Green
Why It’s Romantic: Few experiences compare to riding towards a castle with your partner – it’s like a scene from a romance novel. The park’s scenery is wonderfully varied: manicured avenues, blooming gardens, sweeping lawns, and secluded woods create an ever-changing backdrop.
Highlights: Tally Ho Stables specializes in private rides tailored to your pace – whether you just want a relaxing walk on gentle horses or an adventurous canter. They cater to beginners (calm, well-trained horses and walking-only if you prefer) as well as advanced riders (who can trot and canter in designated areas).
An experienced guide accompanies you, sharing stories about the park’s history and pointing out sights like the Golden Jubilee Statue or polo fields. Couples often comment on how memorable it is to get photos on horseback with Windsor Castle in the distance.
Price Range: Around £120–£150 per person for a 2-hour private hack in Windsor Great Park (rates can vary by provider and day). This typically includes all equipment and an expert guide just for you.
Ready for something cosy and low-pressure? This experience swaps countryside canters for a gentle, 45-minute lesson followed by coffee and cake—perfect if you’d rather bond over new skills (and sugar) than brave a full hack.
location: East Pole Farmhouse, Bramley Road, Oakwood (Piccadilly line), on the edge of Trent Country Park in North London.
Why is it romantic: Just you two, a friendly BHS-qualified instructor, and calm horses: learn the basics side by side, then linger in the on-site café with barista drinks and generous slices of cake.
It’s equal parts date, mini-adventure, and indulgent treat, all wrapped in leafy parkland scenery.
Highlights: One-to-one coaching covering mounting, posture, rein control, and—if you’re confident—trotting or more advanced work.
location: Holly Lodge, Richmond Park, South-West London (easily reached via Richmond or Kingston stations, then a short taxi ride).
Why is it romantic: Wrapped in blankets, you and your partner glide through deer-dotted parkland in a vintage carriage drawn by rare Shire horses. Hoofbeats, sleigh bells, and complimentary sloe gin with mince pies turn the 75-minute ride into a storybook date—especially magical at sunset or under Christmas lights.
Price: £450 per carriage (seats up to six—most couples book the whole carriage for complete privacy). Limited winter dates from late November to early January.
Highlights: Private, blanket-lined Park Brake carriage driven by uniformed coachmen.
Bonus Tips: Many of these stables offer gift vouchers – a lovely idea if you want to surprise your partner with a horseback date. Always wear comfortable riding attire (long pants and boots with a small heel) and arrive a bit early for a safety briefing. Most importantly, relax and have fun! A private horseback ride allows you to slow down and savor nature together, making it a wonderfully romantic experience in or near London. Enjoy the ride!