What Can I Expect

A two-night pack pony adventure in Dorset - walk the land and sleep under the stars! These wild camping trips are fully guided by a human, with a pack pony carrying all your gear as you hike along your route.

You'll meet the ponies at the equestrian centre near Dorchester. These well-mannered, well-trained ponies are so sweet. They love to be around people and love to work - and with all that open-air camping gear to pack, these ponies are eager to help, by literally taking the load.

Your hosts and guides will be taking you on a wonderful walk through the Dorset countryside, stopping by some lovely spots as you go. You will follow the Lawrence of Arabia trail, which includes places linked to TE Lawrence's life - and it's all quite a story!

As evening comes around, you'll set up camp. Your home for the next two nights is a wonderful ancient bluebell woodland. To ensure the impact on this lovely, secluded and wild environment is minimal, you'll be sleeping in a tent or a hammock (the choice is yours!).

On the first evening your hosts cook dinner on the campfire. And after a good night’s sleep, you’ll gather for breakfast. The day is then yours to do as you wish. You can go exploring, hike further or stay at camp as help out with the pony care and exercising.

A picnic hamper brimming with fresh, local, artisan goodies is provided for your lunch and you’ll be able to enjoy a cosy dinner for two, with all the ingredients given to you so you can cook on your own campfire.

After breakfast the next morning, you'll pack up ready for the one and a half hour return walk back to the stables, departing at 11:00 at a very relaxed pace. You can lead your pony, or just walk alongside, it's entirely up to you.

A highlight for many is the Moreton Ford Crossing. You can go in the water with the ponies, or cross on the pedestrian-only bridge. From this point it’s only a five-minute walk to the stables, so you won’t be soggy for long!

If you're looking for an outing with a difference, these pack pony adventures offer a new way to connect with nature, get out and about and see some lovely hidden-gem sights - with a taste of wild camping included!

When Is It Available

• Available throughout August subject to availability and weather conditions

Suitable For

• Minimum age 8
• Under 16s must be accompanied by a participating adult
• Suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness
• If you have any medical problems or disabilities that may affect your ability to take part please check this before making your booking
• You will form part of a small group of up to 8 participants

Spectators

• Not suitable for spectators

Anything Else

• Please wear comfortable outdoor clothing including long trousers and flat soled, hard topped walking boots and ensure that you pack an overnight bag with the essentials you require for camping outdoors
• Please note that this experience does not include riding the ponies