1,000 Miles, Sunshine, Storms and Side Saddle Success 

What a week it has been on the road teaching side saddle across the country! Over seven days, more than 1,000 miles were clocked up as I travelled from Wiltshire and Somerset to Devon, Monmouthshire, Powys, Derbyshire and finally Yorkshire, helping riders of all levels develop their side saddle skills. 

Tuesday – Wiltshire & Somerset 

The week began with lessons in Foxham, Wiltshire, before heading to Frome, Somerset. Despite a dramatic thunderstorm rolling through during the day, spirits remained high and horses and riders worked brilliantly. One rider, Vickie Watts, was putting the finishing touches to her preparation for the Royal Bath & West Show. The hard work certainly paid off, as she went on to win her Side Saddle Equitation class – a fantastic achievement and thoroughly deserved. 

Wednesday – Devon 

Wednesday saw a clinic day in Devon, where temperatures reached a very hot 32 degrees. Riders and horses coped admirably with the heat, making excellent progress throughout the day. It was wonderful to welcome a mixture of newcomers experiencing side saddle for the first time as well as existing clients continuing their journey and working towards personal goals, including some equitation jumping practise.

Thursday – Monmouthshire & Powys 

The road miles continued with visits to Monmouthshire and Powys, a day where the diversity of horses and ponies that carry a sidesaddle was fully illustrated with a Clydesdale and a traditional gypsy cob.

Friday – Powys & Derbyshire 

Friday provided another busy day between Powys and Derbyshire, with plenty of riding as well as teaching. I managed to fit in some valuable practice for the upcoming Side Saddle Association Pairs Competition alongside Hannah Terndrup with her two lovely ponies Frank and Eddie. 

Saturday & Sunday – Beverley, Yorkshire 

The week concluded in Beverley, Yorkshire, where the weather was a complete contrast to the thunderstorms earlier in the week. Glorious sunshine greeted me throughout the weekend, although a little too much sunshine resulted in a touch of sunburn! The Yorkshire sessions were filled with enthusiasm. It was fantastic to see continued progress across all levels, from riders taking their first steps in side saddle to those working towards competition goals. 

Looking Back 

Weeks like this perfectly demonstrate the diversity and appeal of side saddle riding. From complete beginners to experienced competitors, from show preparation to competition practice, every lesson presents an opportunity to learn and improve. A huge thank you to all the riders who hosted lessons, travelled to clinics, and entrusted me with their horses throughout the week. Congratulations to everyone on their achievements, especially those preparing for upcoming shows and competitions. Throughout the week I had the opportunity to ride a wonderfully varied selection of horses, ranging from a huge Clydesdale to a charming Dales Pony and several traditional cobs. I loved riding them all! Now, after more than 1,000 miles on the road, sunshine, thunderstorms and some wonderful horses, it’s time to prepare for another busy week of side saddle adventures