Horse riding at Stowe Gardens

PLEASE NOTE: Horse riding permits for 2024 are now at full capacity. We will start taking applications for new permits in April 2025.

Horse riding around Stowe Gardens

Spend a day exploring the wider countryside from a new vantage point when you ride through the historic parkland. Follow 3.5 miles of permitted route and an additional 2.6 miles of bridleways and see the seasons change with crisp frosts to blooming wildflower meadows and buttery autumn colours.  

Designed sight lines were made to allow views of the garden to be seen from the parkland, with the monuments and features providing a backdrop to how nature and the park plays an important part of the estate. See many of our iconic monuments only by accessing the park on four legs. 

Horse-riding permit

Before you set off to explore Stowe's trails, you will need to apply for a permit. With this you'll be provided with a map. New members to the scheme will need to purchase a tabard, whilst existing members will need to renew their permit annually.  

We kindly ask all riders to ring in advance if you're intending to bring a horse box. We can then advise if parking is available in the coach park. 

Riding responsibly

Stowe is enjoyed by many visitors and home to grazing livestock. To ensure everyone has an enjoyable visit, please take a read through our riding code below: 

• Stay on the designated riding route 
• No galloping 
• Respect the route by not using it in periods of poor ground conditions 
• Fasten all gates 
• Always wear your tabard 
• Report any damage around route to the National Trust office: 01280 817156 
• Be courteous to other users of the park, National Trust team members and tenants 
• Observe National Trust byelaws

Ring our friendly team to find out more about Stowe's horse-riding permit scheme on 01280 817156 or send them an email with your application form.