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Castle Leslie

Overview

Castle Leslie and its word class Equestrian Centre is located only 80 mins from Dublin and 60mins from Belfast. Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, the estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activities and adventures. You…

Highlights

  • Ride through the undulating countryside of the estate
  • Improve with showjumping or cross-country lessons
  • Learn to Ride programme for beginners/novices
  • Enjoy glorious lodge rooms or upgrade to the castle
  • Spa treatments available and payable locally

Essential Facts

  • 4 itineraries available
  • Max 6 riders per group (12 in camp)
  • Average of 2 - 3 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: 16 stone / 102kg / 224 lbs

Description

Castle Leslie and its word class Equestrian Centre is located only 80 mins from Dublin and 60mins from Belfast. Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, the estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activities and adventures. You can explore the beautiful Irish countryside on horseback or experience expert tuition in flatwork, show jumping and cross country.

The estate includes 21 miles of meandering bridleways as well as a mile-long all-weather gallop. There's a 50x30m indoor arena with indoor cross-country fences, a 20x50m dressage arena and a 30x20m outdoor menage. Cross country jumps weave their way through the estate for more competent riders, and there's even a mechanical horse for beginners! So whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, Castle Leslie has something to offer you.

Horse-drawn carriage rides are also sometimes possible - subject to availability and with advance booking.

Children over 7 years of age are also welcome to ride and are offered expert tuition, gentle hacks, pony parlour, games and competitions.

Castle Leslie is BHS, SJI and AIRE approved so you can be certain of quality throughout your riding break.

Horses & Riding

Tack

All the tack used on these rides in English style. Saddles and bridles are of good quality and well maintained to keep them safe for daily use. They are also professionally fitted to each horse and regularly checked.

Horses

There are a wide variety of horses available at the Castle Leslie stables, including Connemaras, Cobs, Thoroughbreds and Irish Draughts. They have a range of characters and personalities to suit all ages and abilities of rider, from beginners to experienced; children or adults.

Riding

There are 4 itineraries:

  • Horse Sport Programme is a based ride
  • Happy Hackers Programme is a based ride
  • Learn to Ride Programme is a based ride
  • Winter Cross Country Programme is a based ride

Ages

7 years or older

Health

General good health

Weight

16 stone / 102kg / 224 lbs

Food & Accommodation

Food

The estate offers the best of classical Irish cooking, sourcing regional and artisan foods locally and baking their own breads and scones daily.

Conor's bar offers traditional Irish country cooking in a casual setting. Locals and guests come together to unwind after an activity-filled day and the menu includes a variety of dishes to suit all tastes.

Alternatively the 2 AA Rosette award winning Snaffles restaurant provides high-quality candlelit meals for those seeking a more formal dining experience.

Afternoon Tea is offered in the Blue Room with a selection of elegant savouries and homemade sweet treats.

Accommodation

Most guests stay in the Lodge which was beautifully extended in 2019. Many of the 50 rooms in the lodge overlook the stables, so are ideally situated for riders. The lodge is located at the entrance to the estate and is the social hub of the estate

The guestrooms are decorated with a chic country house style and offer either king or twin bed accommodation with a roll-top Victorian bath, separate walk-in shower and smart TV.

Upgrades are possible to stay in the Castle itself, with each room individually designed - please enquire.

Itineraries

Horse Sport Programme Luxury accommodation.

Happy Hackers Programme Luxury accommodation.

Learn to Ride Programme Luxury accommodation.

Winter Cross Country Programme Luxury accommodation.

Other Activities

The estate is the perfect spot to explore on foot or simply relax with a book.

Fishing is available on the lake or you can choose to have a go at Archery or Falconry. Please note that these activities should be booked in advance and the falconry needs to be paid in advance.

Spa treatments can also be booked and paid for locally.

Travel

Castle Leslie is approximately halfway between Dublin and Belfast, so either airport is possible and many low cost airlines fly to both. Belfast is c. 1.5 hours drive whilst Dublin is c. 1hr 45mins.

Transfers can be arranged at extra cost, or you may wish to hire a car to give yourself the flexibility to explore the area when not riding.

You should aim to check-in from 15:00 on arrival day, and if you wish to ride this afternoon, then you'll need to be prompt as the first lesson is usually c. 16:00. Check out on departure day is usually 12:00 midday and you can usually ride that morning, but may have to vacate your room before your lesson.

Testimonials

Tamara R., April 19, 2024

Relaxing, beautiful, fantastic accommodations and food, and cannot say enough about the horses!! Wonderful!!


Sarah V., Aug. 22, 2023

Truly incredible! Castle Leslie is the perfect holiday for horse lovers and it was a great place to go to as two riders of differing abilities due to their effort to tailor their programme to rider level. My mom was paired with steadier companions that would take care of her as she was learning to trot and canter outside of an arena, and I was paired with a comfortable yet athletic Irish Sporthorse who allowed me to learn the ropes of cross country whilst still providing me confidence. We will certainly be back!


Meghan M., Aug. 10, 2023

It was fantastic! At times a surreal experience because the horses are so well trained and cared for, and the estate grounds are gorgeous! My favorite part was the cross country rides and anytime we jumped over logs through the woods. Galloping around parts of the estate was amazing too.


Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: 1 hours

Arrive and settle into your room.

Meet your instructor and have an initial assessment lesson where you can discuss what you hope to achieve during your stay. If you are going to arrive too late for your lesson, then this will be moved to the following morning.

Days 2 to 3

Riding: 3 hours

Your rides will incorporate a mixture of showjumping, cross country and dressage lessons along with estate rides. Your exact mix of lessons will depend on your aspirations and experience.

You will get three hours of riding each day and lessons are not private but will be in small groups.

Day 4 - Departure

Riding: 2 hours

Your final lessons/trails this morning before you check out.

Accommodation

Twin/double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms located in the lodge at the Castle Leslie Estate.
Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Intermediate riders and above who wish to work on improving their flatwork and jumping.
Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 6
Accommodation for up to 12.
Departure windows

At any time during: Feb. 15, 2025 - Nov. 16, 2025  (Dates to suit, depending on availability with preferred arrivals on Sundays)

Pricing

2025
Non-Rider Adult; 3 day/3 night programme; Sharing		 £805 $1015 €975
2025
Non-Rider Adult; 3 day/3 night programme; Single		 £1355 $1705 €1635
2025
3night/3 day programme; Adult Rider; Single		 £1750 $2205 €2115
2025
5 night/5 day programme; Adult Rider; Single		 £2605 $3275 €3145
2025
5 night/5 day programme; Adult Rider; Sharing		 £1955 $2460 €2360
2025
Rider Child (7-11 years); 5 day/5 night programme; Sharing		 £1805 $2270 €2180
2025
Non-Rider Adult; 5 day/5 night programme; Sharing		 £1290 $1625 €1560
2025
Non-Rider Adult; 5 day/5 night programme; Single		 £1945 $2445 €2345
2025
Non-Rider Child (7-11 years); 5 day/5 night programme; Sharing		 £1205 $1515 €1455
2025
3night/3 day programme; Adult Rider; Sharing		 £1205 $1515 €1455
2025
Child Rider (7-11 years), 3night/3 day programme; Sharing		 £1105 $1390 €1335
2025
Non-Rider Child (7-11 years); 3 day/3 night programme; Sharing		 £695 $875 €840
Included Accommodation in shared lodge rooms, breakfast & dinner each day (choice of a single course in Snaffles restaurant or two courses in Conor's Bar, both on-site), and riding as per programme.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, transfers, lunches, drinks, spa treatments and additional activities, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (1 pax) €170
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, each way (one pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (2-5 pax) €80
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, per person each way (2-5 pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (6+ pax) €70
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, per person each way (6+ pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: 1 hours

Arrive and settle into your room.

Meet your instructor and have an initial assessment lesson where you can discuss what you hope to achieve during your stay and be allocated a horse suitable for your experience level. If you are going to arrive too late for your lesson, then this will be moved to the following morning

Days 2 to 3

Riding: 3 hours

Each day you have a two hour guided horse ride around the estate to enjoy the simple pleasures of exploring the countryside on horseback and a one hour lesson (either flatwork or poles on the ground, depending on your level and wishes).

Day 4 - Departure

Riding: 2 hours

A final ride before you depart.

Accommodation

Twin/double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms located in the lodge at the Castle Leslie Estate.
Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Novice to experienced riders. Rides can be tailored to suit abilities.
Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 6
Departure windows

At any time during: Jan. 1, 2025 - Dec. 15, 2025  (Dates to suit, depending on availability and Sunday arrivals preferred)

Pricing

2025
5 day/5 night programme; Adult Rider; Sharing		 £1955 $2460 €2360
2025
5 day/5 night programme; Adult Rider; Single		 £2605 $3275 €3145
2025
Child Rider (7-11 yrs); 5 day/5 night programme; Sharing		 £1805 $2270 €2180
2025
3 day/3 night programme; Child Rider (7-11 years); Sharing		 £1105 $1390 €1335
2025
3 day/3 night programme; Adult Rider; Sharing		 £1205 $1515 €1455
2025
3 day/3 night programme; Adult Rider; Single		 £1750 $2205 €2115
2025
Non-Rider; 5 day/5 night programme; Sharing		 £1290 $1625 €1560
2025
Non-Rider; 5 day/5 night programme; Single		 £1945 $2445 €2345
2025
Non-Rider Child (7-11 yrs); 5 day/5 night programme; Sharing		 £1205 $1515 €1455
2025
Non-Rider Adult; 3 day/3 night programme; Sharing		 £805 $1015 €975
2025
Non-Rider Adult; 3 day/3 night programme; Single		 £1355 $1705 €1635
2025
Non-Rider Child (7-11 years); 3 day/3 night programme; Sharing		 £695 $875 €840
Included Accommodation in shared lodge rooms, breakfast & dinner each day (choice of a single course in Snaffles restaurant or two courses in Conor's Bar, both on-site), and riding as per programme.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, transfers, lunches, drinks, spa treatments and additional activities, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (1 pax) €170
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, each way (1 pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (2-5 pax) €80
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, per person each way (2-5 pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (6+ pax €70
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, per person each way (6+ pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: 1 hours

Arrive and settle into your room.

Meet your instructor and have an initial assessment lesson where you can discuss what you hope to achieve during your stay. If you are going to arrive too late for your lesson, then this will be moved to the following morning

Days 2 to 5

Riding: 3 hours

You'll receive three hours of riding each day, comprising of a series of lessons which ultimately culminate with a two hour ride around the estate. (The exact itinerary will be discussed with your instructor).

Day 6 - Departure

Riding: 1 - 2 hours

A final ride before departure.

Accommodation

Twin/double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms located in the lodge at the Castle Leslie Estate.
Experience Beginner

Beginners and novice riders who wish to develop and improve their riding skills.
Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 6
Accommodation for up to 12.
Departure windows

At any time during: Jan. 2, 2025 - Dec. 15, 2025  (Dates to suit, depending on availability with preferred arrivals on Sundays)

Pricing

2025
5 nights / 5 days riding; Adult Rider; sharing		 £1955 $2460 €2360
2025
5 nights / 5 days riding; Adult Rider; Single		 £2605 $3275 €3145
2025
Non-Rider Adult; 5 day/5 night programme; Sharing		 £1290 $1625 €1560
2025
Non-Rider Adult; 5 day/5 night programme; Single		 £1945 $2445 €2345
2025
5 nights / 5 days riding; Child (7-11 years); sharing		 £1805 $2270 €2180
2025
Non-Rider Child (7-11 years); 5 day/5 night programme; Sharing		 £1205 $1515 €1455
Included 5 nights accommodation in shared rooms, breakfast & dinner each day (choice of a single course in Snaffles restaurant or two courses in Conor's Bar, both on-site), and riding as per programme.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, transfers, lunches, drinks, spa treatments and additional activities, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer €170
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, each way (1 pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (2-5 pax) €80
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, per person each way (2-5 pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (6+ pax) €70
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, per person each way (6+ pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1 - Sunday

Riding: 1 hours

Arrive and settle into your accommodation. Meet the horses and your instructor and have a 1 hour assessment lesson.

Day 2 - Monday

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

After breakfast enjoy a 2 hour session in the indoor arena getting to know your horse and working on your flatwork and transitions. After lunch you will be back in the school for a pole-work session, working on your balance and straightness.

Day 3 - Tuesday

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

This morning you will back in the indoor arena to practice the skills you learnt on your first day and preparation for your afternoon session.
In the afternoon you have an indoor cross country lesson using mobile cross country fences.

Day 4 - Wednesday

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

This morning you will head straight out onto the all-weather cross country tracks, wetlands and lake.

If you have chosen the 3 day package you leave after this, if you have chosen the 4 day package you will enjoy an indoor jump lesson in the afternoon.

Day 5 - Thursday

Riding: 2 hours

After breakfast enjoy another 2 hour cross country session on the all-weather tracks, wetlands and lake.

PLEASE NOTE: If there are adverse weather conditions such as heavy frost, snow or strong winds then sessions will be held in the indoor arena.

Accommodation

Twin/double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms located in the lodge at the Castle Leslie Estate.
Experience Intermediate

Suitable for novice and nervous riders who are already comfortable in walk, trot and canter and have started to jump 50-70cm fences. This course is not suitable for beginners or advanced riders.
Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 6
Accommodation for up to 12.
Departure windows

At any time during: Nov. 17, 2024 - Feb. 13, 2025  (Sunday Arrivals)

At any time during: Nov. 16, 2025 - Feb. 12, 2026  (Sunday Arrivals)

Pricing

2025
Rider, Adult, Single, 3 nights		 £1750 $2205 €2115
2025
Rider, Adult, Single, 4 nights		 £2085 $2620 €2515
2025
Rider, Adult, Sharing, 3 Nights		 £1205 $1515 €1455
2025
Rider, Child, Sharing, 3 Nights		 £1105 $1390 €1335
2025
Rider, Adult, Sharing, 4 Nights		 £1565 $1965 €1885
2025
Rider, Child, Sharing, 4 Nights		 £1445 $1815 €1740
Included 3 or 4 nights accommodation in shared lodge rooms, breakfast & dinner each day (2 courses in Conor's Bar), and riding as per programme.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, transfers, lunches, drinks, spa treatments and additional activities, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (1 pax) €170
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, each way (one pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
2025 - Dublin Airport Transfer (2-5 pax) €80
Paid locally
Dublin airport transfer, per person each way (2-5 pax). Price is approximate and subject to increase in line with fuel prices.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.