sydney & the central coast's
favourite horse riding tour
ride horseback among the most
breathtaking wilderness
Explore a hidden, unspoiled part of Australia.
Idle though natural rainforests and native bushland.
As the stresses of everyday life melt away.
Feel the breeze and splash through cool, refreshing creeks.
Relax to the soundtrack of bird chirps and clippity clops.
Glenworth Valley is Australia’s favourite horse riding tour.
just 20 minutes from
gosford & hornsby
Just 20 minutes from Gosford & Hornsby, Glenworth Valley is right on your doorstep.
Perfect for day trips and family getaways alongside corporate groups, school groups and more.
loved by both experienced equestrians
& first-time riders
Whether you’re a first-timer, returning horse rider or experienced equestrian.
Glenworth Valley’s friendly guides will have you out on the trails & experiencing the joys of wilderness riding on this serene & tranquil tour.
From mounting your horse to taking your first steps, they’ll be by your side and ready to assist at every step of the journey. And with techniques picked up from a lifetime in the saddle, you’ll be amazed at how quickly they level up skills and confidence with the simple tips needed to safely ride a horse.
Catering to the comfort-level of the least experienced rider, tour groups typically enjoy a leisurely & relaxed pace with a mix of walking & trotting.
reliable horses trained for
first-time riders & upwards
As you’ll hear from every experienced rider, finding the right horse that matches your size and level is essential in having a safe and memorable riding experience.
Glenworth Valley hand selects only the most experienced horses with years of trail riding practice to create the perfect introduction for beginner, novice and first-time riders.
Plus, accredited by the National Horse Riding Association since 1970, Glenworth Valley holds the highest standards of professionalism in its horse riding tours and has helped thousands of keen riders take their first steps.
You couldn’t be in safer hands for a horse riding experience.
bringing horse riding to the region
for over 50 years
Glenworth Valley opened its doors as a small horse riding and agistment center in 1969, bringing the magic of wilderness trail riding to the region.
Word travelled quickly of the incredible trails, and it soon became a cherished experience loved by Sydney & Central Coast locals.
Since, Glenworth Valley has become an internationally visited destination, attracting global celebrities David Beckahm, Bill Gates & many more to discover its breathtaking & unspoiled setting.
Take the reins and discover why Glenworth Valley’s horse riding tour is the region’s favourite outdoor adventure.
how customers review
glenworth valley on google
Winner of countless tourism awards, rated in the top 10 things to do for Sydney & The Central Coast and reviewed at above 4 stars by over 600 guests, Glenworth Valley is an experience that guests simply keep coming back for.
horse riding
quick summary
Ages: 7 years +
Weight limit: 100kg
Experience: First timer to advanced riders
Type: Guided. Catering to the comfort level of the least experienced rider, tour groups typically enjoy a leisurely & relaxed pace. Free-range riding is also available for very experienced riders.
Price: From $120pp. Book today and save with off-peak pricing.
Includes: Horse, experienced guide, instruction
Extras: Helmets are compulsory for all riders. Helmets can be hired for an additional $7.50 fee
Available: Daily. Walk-ups accepted. However, many tours sell-out in advance and pre-booking is recommended.
Check in: 30 minutes prior
Start time: 10am & 2pm (Mon – Fri). 9am, 11am & 2pm (Sat, Sun, Public Holidays & School Holidays)
Duration: 2 hour experience – includes briefing. Note: 1.5 hours 11am time slot Mon-Fri during school holidays. Limited 4 & 6 hour rides and free-range riding available – please call to book.
information and
faq's
Helmets are compulsory for all riders. Helmets can be hired for an additional $7.50 fee.
Have Your Own Certified Helmet in line with current Equestrian Australia Standards and within 5 years of the manufacture date? Present it for inspection on the day of your activity. A non expired certification label must be visible to receive a refund of your helmet hire fee.
We recommend wearing full-length pants. Jodhpurs or jeans are ideal.
Fully enclosed footwear such as riding boots, sneakers or shoes with a flat sole is best. A limited amount of riding boots are available to hire. Sandals, thongs, steel caps or large bulky shoes with a heavy tread are not permitted.
For safety reasons backpacks, handbags etc are not to be worn whilst riding.
Remember to bring sunscreen, insect repellent and a brimmed hat.
Minimum age is 7 years.
For animal welfare reasons, there is a maximum weight limit of 100kg, including all clothing and helmets. Please be aware that our maximum weight limit may be lower than 100kgs and is subject to variation according to what horses are available for riding on the day of your visit. We are unable to guarantee that a suitable horse will be available on the day of your visit however every effort will be made to provide you with a suitable horse.
In addition to a rider’s weight, we do also take into account a rider’s height to weight ratio, riding experience, general muscle tone and fitness when assessing whether we have a suitable horse available.
If guests in your party weigh more than the maximum 100kg limit, they will not be permitted to ride. They can choose either a refund or an alternative experience, such as quad-biking, abseiling or kayaking, should it be available.
Free-range horse riding may be available for experienced riders who have ridden at least 50 times previously. Your safety is paramount and the final decision on a rider’s capability is at the discretion of the guide.
Please make a note in the comments of your online booking that you would like to be assessed for free-range riding.
Important Information. Please note: All participants, or guardians acting on behalf of minor participants, are required to sign a contract which includes a waiver of liability and important information describing some of the risks of the activity before being permitted to participate in any of our adventure activities. Please click here to read a copy of the contract. To review terms and conditions of your booking and participation in Glenworth Valley activities, please click Terms & Conditions
packages loved by
horse riders
more glenworth valley
horse riding adventures
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime in the saddle.
Or are getting ready to take your very first steps.
There’s a horse riding experience for you at Glenworth Valley.
Keen horse riding enthusiasts find their stride on our iconic Australian Cattle Drive Ride.
And lovers of picnics will feel at home on our indulgent Gourmet Picnic Trail Tour.
Or if you’re looking to level-up skills & confidence.
A horse riding lesson with expert instructors will have you amazed at how simple tips & tricks can improve your ability.
Plus with lead horse riding & horse riding holiday camps for kids – there’s something for all ages.
And before you know it, you’ll be begging for a horse of your own.
plus free weekend experiences
for valley visitors every saturday & sunday
Happening every Saturday & Sunday – free for all Valley visitors.
Not camping or doing an adventure?
Enjoy unlimited Valley access with a Day Trip & Picnic Pass.
Available online for just $10 per person.
4pm: adorable petting farm
feeding sessions
Get ready to hang out with Glenworth Valley’s super cute farmyard animals.
There’s Scottish Highlands Hilda & Dougie.
Their best friend Stella the miniature goat.
Plus emu’s, ducks, chickens & more.
A free experience cherished by little ones. Grab a bag of feed from reception for just $5, and meet by the horseyards at 4pm.
from 4:30pm: watch the
running of the horses
Setup on the safety of a viewing area.
And watch up to 250 resident horses run through Glenworth Valley in a crescendo of hooves and energy.
Glenworth Valley’s Running of the Horses is the 8th wonder of the world.
Happening at approximately 4:30pm daily. Check in with reception when you’re here for directions.
make it a getaway with
onsite camping & glamping
The most unique camping experience anywhere in Australia – just 20 minutes from Sydney!
Set amongst the most stunning natural bush wilderness with a beautiful creek to splash around in. This 200-acre campground gives you the space and freedom to sprawl out, no matter how big your group.
With an adorable petting farm, picturesque Valley views and a huge range of unforgettable adventure tours (including quad biking, kayaking, laser skirmish & abseiling) – there’s never a dull moment.
Plus with glamping tents available for hire, and being so close to home with onsite security, it’s perfect for families, first-time campers and overseas guests.
Enjoy good company with friends around your own crackling campfire. Sleep beneath a blanket of brilliant stars. And wake up to incredible landscapes and the sounds of bellbirds chirping. It’s the proper Australian bush camping experience.
kiosk open weekends & holiday periods with
fresh coffee & food
There’s no better to way to unwind from your morning horse riding than relaxing in the sun with a cup of barista-made coffee.
Put your order in at an onsite kiosk – stocked with fresh pastries, toasties, bacon & egg rolls, hot chips & juices.
Before setting up on nearby picnic tables, complete with beautiful views of Glenworth Valley’s wilderness.
You’ll discover why Glenworth Valley is Sydney’s favourite picnic and bbq spot.
learn from the best
horse riding explained
where can I ride a horse in sydney?
Horse riding is allowed only in certain areas among Sydney & the Central Coast, with most wilderness sites and national parks having strict bans on horse access. Although horse riding is at its best in an unspoiled natural setting, there are only a handful of locations where a true trail riding experience can be discovered.
With unmatched natural beauty, over 30km of spectacular trails and guided tours from expert riders, Glenworth Valley has brought cherished and authentic wilderness trail riding experiences to region for over 50 years – making it the areas favourite outdoor experience.
is horse riding scary?
If the thought of horse riding as a first-time or returning rider is making you nervous, you may find the assistance and reassurance of professional guides priceless when taking the reins.
Sit back on Glenworth Valley’s trail riding tour and take on friendly tips from instructors guiding your technique. You’ll be able to disconnect from any hesitation or concern, and loose yourself to the magic of riding in a breathtaking natural setting.
You’ll wonder what was ever holding you back.
what to wear when horse riding
Long pants to cover your legs makes horse riding all the more comfortable – jeans or jodhpurs are perfect. Covered shoes likes boots or sneakers are also helpful. If you’re riding through Australia’s beautiful Summer sun, a light, long sleeve shirt can also prevent sunburn.
Boots and helmets are both available when riding at Glenworth Valley to give you the true horse riding experience.
where can I learn to ride a horse?
When looking for horse riding schools or instructors, it’s important to look for accreditation by the nation horse riding association – guaranteeing professional advice, safety and awesome experiences.
Accredited since 1970, Glenworth Valley holds the highest standards of professionalism in its horse riding lessons tours and and has helped thousands of keen riders.
an unforgettable group day out for
corporate events & parties
Take to Glenworth Valley’s trails on horseback and soak in picturesque views with your friends or colleagues.
With fresh air, the gentle rhythm of your horse and the sounds of native birds, you and your team will be moved into a world of peace and serenity.
Plus with catering formal or casual as your prefer, a spectacular events centre and luxury onsite accommodation, you’ll wind down into an afternoon or evening in complete comfort.
Connect with a venue specialist today to learn more about how your event can be brought to life in spectacular style at Glenworth Valley.