LONDONDERRY HORSE FIELD GUIDE
From Farm to Saddle: Slow Days and Pony Smiles in the Faughan Valley
A hands-on, family-focused hour on a working Londonderry farm — meet the animals, learn from a fourth-generation farmer, and enjoy gentle pony time.
From Farm to Saddle: Slow Days and Pony Smiles in the Faughan Valley.
Experience the charm of Irish country life on a working farm with 4th‑generation farmer Pauline: friendly animal encounters, a serene nature walk and gentle pony time set against the quiet slopes of the Faughan Valley.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hands‑on farmyard moments
Brush and lead ponies, meet goats and sheep up close, and spend calming, supervised time with friendly animals designed to slow the pace and invite connection for all ages.
A storybook working farm
The farm sits in the Faughan Valley and combines everyday working landscapes with light‑hearted ‘farm tales’ and a relaxed nature walk that frames the experience.
Small groups with experienced guidance
A private, small‑group format with two experienced guides ensures the visit is safe, paced to the family’s needs, and adaptable — from calm handling to short pony rides for younger guests.
What the day feels like
What the hour feels like
This is a low‑gear, tactile hour: arrive at the City of Derry Equestrian Centre, move through a working farm with Pauline and the team, meet and handle animals, take a short nature stroll across the valley, and choose from gentle pony handling or a brief, supported ride for younger participants.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hour works for — and who should reconsider
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The verified duration for the experience is 1 hour. Confirm arrival details with the City of Derry Equestrian Centre at the meeting address on Bigwood Road.
No specific gear list is provided in the verified details; check directly with the operator for clothing and footwear recommendations before arrival.
All mounted elements are optional and will be adapted to ensure safety and comfort; there is a 15 stone (95 kg) weight limit for any mounted activity.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the experience last?
The verified duration of the activity is 1 hour.
Where do we meet the group?
Meet at City of Derry Equestrian Centre, 30 Bigwood Road, Ardmore, Derry‑Londonderry, BT47 3RP.
Can children go riding?
Children can participate; very young children may not be able to take mounted rides but can sit on a pony for a gentle, supported moment. Short individual pony rides are available for younger participants.
Is there a weight limit for riding?
Yes — the weight limit for any mounted activity is 15 stone (95 kg).
Will guides be present throughout the visit?
Yes — the activity is supported by two experienced guides who assist families and adapt activities as needed.
Are mounted activities mandatory?
No — all mounted elements are optional and will be adapted to ensure safety and comfort for every participant.