Irish Castle Escape
- Ride across 1,000 acres of breathtaking Irish countryside, weaving through ancient woodlands and glittering lakes,
- Receive expert instruction in dressage, show jumping, and experience the thrill of cross-country riding,
- Stay in the beautifully restored Lodge, where historic charm meets modern comfort, just steps away from the Equestrian Centre.
Optional : Additional night at Castle Leslie, Falconry, SPA Treatment, Archery, Fishing, Boating…
Centrally located in County Monaghan, Castle Leslie Estate is easily accessible from Belfast or Dublin.
On your arrival day, our driver will collect you from the airport or your hotel and transfer you to your accommodation at Castle Leslie.
The journey to the estate typically takes about 60 minutes from Belfast and 80 minutes from Dublin.
The Irish Castle Escape is thoughtfully tailored to accommodate all riding levels - from beginners to experienced riders.
It offers a true haven for beginners eager to build confidence in the saddle and discover the joy of riding across open countryside. Meanwhile the diverse range of disciplines available (show jumping, cross country, dressage, estate rides) provide experienced riders with the perfect opportunity to refine their skills and challenge themselves in new ways.
Our Irish Castle Escape features three distinct riding programs, designed to suit every level of experience:
- Learn to Ride: Perfect for first-timers and novice riders, this program includes daily lessons and gentle hacks through the scenic estate.
- Happy Hackers: Ideal for beginners eager to discover the joy of riding across open country, exploring the estate’s breathtaking landscapes on horseback.
- Sports Horse Experience: For advanced riders, this program offers an exhilarating mix of show jumping, cross-country, dressage, and estate rides.
Each day, you will spend between around 3 hours in the saddle (or more upon inquiry) - 2h in the morning and 1h in the afternoon - with generous Iris Cobbs, Irish sport horses, draught horses, and ponies.
Children : We are delighted to welcome families, with children of 7 years old minimum.
Non-riders : Non-riders are also welcome to join the journey : While equestrians ride, there are various activities: SPA Treatment, Fishing, Falconry, and more - ensuring every participant enjoys a memorable and personalized day out.
When you reach out through our booking or contact form, our team will provide you with a comprehensive brochure of your chosen journey. This booklet includes the full itinerary, details about accommodations, rates, and available departure dates (along with many pictures to give you a glimpse of the ride!).
If the journey aligns with your wishes and you would like to join, we will send you a detailed form to complete. This helps us understand your riding level, background, and experience, ensuring you meet the required skill level for the ride. This step not only prioritizes safety but also guarantees an enjoyable experience for the entire riding group.
Once our team and riding guide confirm your suitability, you can secure your saddle by paying a 50% deposit.
For your convenience, this can be easily completed via our secure payment link or through a traditional bank transfer.
Nestled across 1,000 acres of enchanting Irish countryside, Castle Leslie Estate invites you to step back in time and experience one of Ireland’s last great family-owned estates. This 16th-century gem, lovingly maintained by the Leslie Family, promises a truly timeless escape.
Whether you’re winding through ancient woodlands, cantering beside sparkling lakes, or exploring 21 miles of bridleways on sturdy Irish cobs, Castle Leslie Estate offers a wealth of equestrian activities. Advanced riders can challenge themselves with over 300 cross-country jumps on Irish sport horses, while those seeking a gentler pace can soak in the natural beauty all around.
After a day of adventure, unwind in the charming Lodge. Enjoy elegantly restored rooms featuring roll-top baths and private balconies overlooking the Equestrian Centre. Indulge in relaxation just steps away at the organic Victorian Spa Treatment Rooms, the perfect way to complete your Irish escape.
Experience the magic, history, and adventure of Ireland at Castle Leslie Estate—where every moment is crafted for lasting memories.
THE SCHEDULE
☽ PM - Upon arriving from your flight to Belfast or Dublin, our driver will take you to Castle Leslie Estate, your home for the next few nights.
Your accommodation awaits you in a beautifully restored lodge, nestled within the estate’s 1,000 acres of Irish countryside, woodlands and glittering lakes.
We invite you to meet the horses and explore the riding center, just a few steps away from your accommodation, before enjoying dinner in one of the Lodge’s restaurants.
☽ Night at The Lodge of Castle Leslie Estate
☼AM - After enjoying a typical Irish breakfast, meet your instructor at the equestrian center. Before your ride, you will have time to discuss about your riding experience and preferences, allowing your instructor to select the perfect horse for you. Then, embark on a 2-hour ride, exploring the estate’s scenic trails, ancient woodlands, and lakes.
☽ PM - Following your morning ride, we recommend to have a light lunch or snack at the Conor’s Bar - especially as the Irish breakfast is quite substantial. When you are ready, return to the equestrian center for your 1-hour riding lesson, where you will start to build your skills.
☽ Night at The Lodge of Castle Leslie Estate
☼AM - Start your day with a hearty Irish breakfast before heading to the equestrian centre for your second 2-hour estate ride. Today, your instructor will lead you on a different route around the estate, ensuring you experience fresh scenery.
☽ PM - After your ride, we recommend having light lunch at one of the Lodge’s restaurants. This time, your instructor may focus on new skills to help you continue building confidence on horseback. After your lesson, you will have some free time to relax, explore the estate grounds, or enjoy a guided walk before dinner.
☽ Night at The Lodge of Castle Leslie Estate
☼AM - On your last morning, enjoy a leisurely Irish breakfast before joining your instructor for a final 2-hour ride across the estate’s beautiful landscapes.
☽ PM - After your ride, we recommend having light lunch at one of the Lodge’s restaurants. Then, saddle up one more time for your last 1-hour riding lesson with your instructor. This session is your opportunity to put into practice everything you have learned throughout your experience.
Then, our driver will take you back to Belfast or Dublin airport to catch your flight.
What our riders say
Optional activities
Falconry
Experience a unique insight into the noble and ancient art of Falconry which offers a stimulating, unique, and memorable experience. The majestic, beautiful birds are captive bred both in Ireland and abroad. They include different species of falcons, hawks, owls, and the magnificent golden eagle.
SPA Treatments
We are delighted to offer you an array of spa specials at The Victorian Treatment Rooms. Our highly-trained therapists will pamper you with a range of traditional organic treatments from the ‘Eminence’ and ‘Voya’ ranges.
Archery
Test your strength and accuracy to the full in a versatile and competitive sport. Archery will not disappoint in the entertainment, satisfaction and fun that it offers. Archery is extremely competitive and really gets a group energized quickly.
Fishing
Fishing
The north east counties of Cavan, Monaghan and Tyrone are host to many fine pike angling venues. With its idyllic setting in Co. Monaghan and its variety of accommodation to suit all preferences, Castle Leslie Estate is the perfect location for a fishing holiday in Ireland. Combine a luxury stay on the Estate with excellent fishing in one of Ireland’s best-preserved lakes, and day trips to a variety of quality angling venues in the vicinity.
Accommodations
THE LODGE
Elegant, Warm & Comfortable
The horses
About this ride
Frequently asked questions
A GLIMPSE INTO THE IRISH CASTLE ESCAPE
You may also like
Loire Valley Castles Tour
Castles of Tuscany Tour
