Horse drawn carriage ride and Picnic Hamper

Imagine drifting through rolling hills and private woodlands pulled by a gentle horse, with the scent of fresh air and blooming wildflowers filling your senses. That’s exactly what this horse-drawn carriage experience in North Yorkshire promises—an authentic, peaceful journey with the bonus of a delicious picnic hamper to enjoy afterward. It’s a wonderful way to slow down, soak up nature, and create memorable moments in the countryside.

Our review highlights what makes this tour special, including its scenic beauty and personalized touch. We also consider the potential limitations — from the size of the group to the duration — to help you decide if it’s the right fit. Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a tranquil escape, this experience offers genuine value in a cozy, private setting.

One thing we love is the chance to spot local wildlife, like deer and buzzards, which adds an element of excitement and connection to the landscape. A possible consideration is that this tour lasts just about an hour, so if you’re craving a longer adventure, you might want to plan additional activities nearby. Overall, it’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic beauty, a relaxed pace, and some quality time outdoors.

Key Points

• Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of North Yorkshire countryside and private woodlands.
• Authentic Experience: Traditional horse-drawn carriage with a personalized, private group setting.
• Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to see deer, buzzards, and other wildlife.
• Relaxing Pace: About an hour of gentle riding with hot drinks served mid-ride.
• Delicious Picnic: Gourmet hamper with fresh, local ingredients—perfect for a leisurely meal.
• Flexibility: Includes photo stops and the option to enjoy your picnic in a dedicated area or nearby spots.

An Authentic Ride Through North Yorkshire’s Countryside

This experience offers a gentle, scenic journey through North Yorkshire’s lush countryside, with a focus on privacy and comfort. Unlike crowded tours, this is a private group experience hosted by Little Skipwith Carriage Rides Ltd, which means you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The meeting point at The Garth, Westfield Skipwith, is easy to access with parking available in the far lot, making logistics straightforward.

The carriage itself is pulled by well-trained horses, and the ride lasts approximately one hour. You’ll glide past fields, private woodlands, and possibly some grazing sheep or deer peering through the trees. The driver, who speaks English and is friendly and accommodating (as noted by previous guests), will guide you through the landscape, sharing tidbits about the local area and its wildlife.

What makes this ride special is the focus on authenticity and tranquility. The slow pace allows you to truly take in the views—no rushing, no noisy crowds. You can sit back in the carriage, enjoy the gentle sway, and listen to the sounds of nature. Plus, there are photo stops along the way, so don’t forget your camera.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

One of the most appreciated aspects of the tour is the chance to spot deer and buzzards—a rare treat for nature lovers. The landscape is quintessentially North Yorkshire, with rolling hills, lush green fields, and patches of woodland. The quiet environment means you’re more likely to see some wildlife than on a typical bus tour.

Guests reported that the scenery is “beautiful” and that the combination of countryside views and the private woodland paths provides a sense of peace and exclusivity. The experience isn’t just about the ride but about truly connecting with the landscape in a gentle, unhurried manner.

The Picnic Hamper: A Delicious Finish

After the carriage ride, guests are invited to enjoy a gourmet picnic hamper designed for four people. The selection is generous, featuring cheese & onion quiche or pork pies, fresh salad, coleslaw, strawberries, fruit scones with clotted cream and jam, lemon cake, cheese with crackers, and unlimited hot drinks like tea, coffee, lemonade, or water.

What we love about the hamper is its quality and variety—all items are fresh and thoughtfully curated to give a taste of local flavors. It’s a relaxed way to conclude the experience, either in the dedicated picnic area or in nearby spots in the village of Skipwith. Reviewers mention that the hampers are well-packaged and plentiful, making it a real treat.

The Practicalities

The cost of $210 per group up to five people offers good value considering the private setting and included amenities. The experience includes the horse-drawn carriage ride, hot drinks, the picnic hamper, and photo stops, making it a well-rounded package.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later—great for travelers with unpredictable plans. The tour lasts about an hour, with starting times available depending on the day’s schedule.

Guests appreciate the “skip the line” entry, which means you won’t spend time waiting or dealing with crowds. The guides are English-speaking and friendly, adding a warm, personalized touch.

Authentic and Intimate Experience for Special Occasions

Several reviews highlight how accommodating the drivers and guides are. For example, one guest mentioned that the driver helped facilitate a proposal, describing the team as “very welcoming and helpful.” This suggests that the experience can be tailored for special moments, making it ideal for romantic outings or small celebrations.

Importantly, the tour maintains a strict no-smoking or alcohol policy for safety and comfort, ensuring a family-friendly environment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those looking for a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of luxury. It’s suited for couples, small groups of friends, or even families with older children. If you appreciate wildlife, love countryside views, and enjoy a slow-paced activity that allows for conversation and photo-taking, you’ll find this well worth your time.

Those seeking a longer or more active adventure might prefer to explore additional nearby attractions, but as a standalone experience, it offers a relaxing slice of rural Yorkshire.

The Sum Up

This horse-drawn carriage ride combined with a gourmet picnic is a lovely way to spend an hour in North Yorkshire’s countryside. It balances authenticity, comfort, and scenic beauty—delivering a genuinely memorable experience that feels both special and relaxed. Whether you’re celebrating a romantic moment, want a peaceful break from sightseeing, or simply love nature, this tour offers a peaceful, picturesque retreat that’s hard to beat for value and charm.

The private group setting, wildlife sightings, and quality food make it stand out among typical countryside activities. It’s particularly suited for travelers who treasure authentic experiences and want a quiet moment to reflect amid stunning scenery.

FAQ

What is included in the experience?
The tour includes a horse-drawn carriage ride, hot drinks served halfway through, a generous picnic hamper for four, and photo stops along the route.

How long does the ride last?
The carriage ride lasts approximately one hour, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

Where do I meet for the ride?
The meeting point is The Garth, Westfield Skipwith, with parking available in the far car park. Clear directions and parking info are provided when you book.

Can I customize the experience?
While the tour is primarily fixed, the driver is friendly and accommodating, with previous guests noting helpfulness—perfect if you have special requests, such as photos or celebrations.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the gentle pace and outdoor setting, it’s likely suitable for older children who can sit comfortably for an hour.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor weather. Since the ride is in a horse-drawn carriage, light layers are advisable, especially if it’s cool or breezy.

Are there any restrictions?
Smoking and alcohol are not permitted on the vehicle or indoors for safety reasons. The experience might be less suitable during bad weather, so check the forecast before booking.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your plans.

This detailed review should give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if this charming North Yorkshire carriage ride coupled with a picnic fits your travel style. Prepare to soak up nature, enjoy a peaceful ride, and savor a delicious spread—an experience that balances authentic charm with personal touches.