The miles of deserted sands and fantastic coastal views and castles are an obvious draw for many keen horse riders in Northumberland. Take to the shoreline on Goswick Sands, Cheswick Sands, Ross Back Sands, Cresswell Beach or Beadnell where you can ride on the deserted beaches.

The more experienced rider should head to the Cheviot Hills where the British Horse Association has developed the Cheviot Challenge which passes through many tourist attractions in the area, ranging from Alnwick Castle and Garden and the National Trust property at Cragside to the Northumberland Coast and Holy Island or one of the many castles or abbeys of the Scottish Borders.

Even if you are new to horse riding there are many riding centres throughout the north east that offer half or full day rides for all ages and abilities. The vast open countryside with the old shepherd's trails and drove roads provide the perfect place to go on a hack. Or enjoy the fantastic riding that's on offer at Kielder Water and Forest park where you can explore over 20 miles of shoreline on horseback.

If this sounds like the ideal way to relax and unwind on your holiday then click on `Browse cottages suitable for horse riding' to choose from numerous holiday cottages all within close proximity of horse riding centres.

Kimmerston Riding Centre

Enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the Cheviot Hills and Holy Island on the back of one of the horses at the stables. All skill levels and group sizes catered for. Tel: 01668 216283

Horse Riding at Kielder Water and Forest Park

Horse riders bringing their own horse can safely enjoy a good network of bridleways and forest tracks in Kieder Water and Forest Park. With open access to most. For detailed trail guides visit the website.

Prendwick Ride

The Breamish Valley is an area ideal place for exploring on horseback. One of the popular routes which has been waymarked is the Prendwick Ride.

Sinderhope Trekking Centre

Trek the North Pennines and admire the outstanding natural beauty of Northumberland with this friendly and family run riding centre.

Coquet Round

The Coquet Valley in Northumberland National Park is truly stunning - and what could be better than a day's hack taking in the best the valley has to offer?

Redesdale Riding Centre
Redesdale Riding Centre

Set in a wonderfully scenic area of the Northumberland National Park Redesdale Riding Centre caters for all ages and abilities. Cater through some of the finest countryside in the UK. 01830 520 276

The Cheviot Challenge!

This exciting project was set up to promote a there and back route between each of the following valleys - The Coquet Valley, The Breamish Valley, The Harthope Valley, The College Valley and The Bowmont Valley.

Shipley Lane Equestrian Centre

Shipley Lane has some great facilities. Child and adult friendly they offer riding lessons, training and country hacks. Tel: 01665 579305

Whitehouse Riding School

Located in Cornhill-on-Tweed, neatly situated between the English and Scottish border, this riding centre has horses to suit all levels.

Slate Hall Riding Centre

See some of the stunning coastline of the North East on horse back with the Slate Hall Riding Centre. They offer lessons, treks, and beach rides and have a large selection of horses and ponies to choose from. Tel: 01665 720320