New year bucket list

Plan a fun ride

Many stately homes, estates and farms open their grounds around spring for organised rides across private land, with optional jumps and routes to suit all levels. It’s a relaxed and sociable way to spend time with friends (and your horse!), and a great excuse for a thermos of hot chocolate afterwards.

Get prepared and start searching for future fun rides on sites such as British Horse Society (BHS) or Horse Events, or by looking on Facebook for rides in your local area.

Try your hand at TREC

TREC (Techniques de Randonnée Équestre de Compétition) tests the partnership between horse and rider through orienteering, control, and obstacle challenges.

Riders of every level can take part – from beginners to seasoned competitors – and it’s a great way to build confidence and improve versatility. The best bit? It doesn’t rely on fancy breeding or athleticism; retired hunters, retrained racehorses, cobs and native ponies all compete side by side.

Learn a new skill with your horse

Start the new year by challenging yourself – and your horse! – by learning a fresh skill. This could be long-reining, groundwork exercises, new dressage movements, or even side saddle.

Adding a new challenge keeps lessons engaging and deepens your bond. Break it down into small, manageable steps and reward progress with praise – consistency and patience are key!

Go on a horse-riding holiday

Many locations offer accommodation with stabling and grazing for horses, so you and your horse can have a change of scenery and the chance to explore new hacking routes – or even hit up a horse-friendly beach.

For a more structured break, a riding holiday or residential camp offers the perfect mix of tuition, adventure and time with your horse. You might book a cross-country clinic, spend a weekend polishing your flatwork, or join a group expedition over the moors. Whatever you choose, you’ll return home reinvigorated and inspired.

Have a go at horse agility

Horse agility is a fun groundwork activity where you and your horse tackle obstacles such as bridges, tunnels and poles, all in-hand.

Agility is fantastic for improving your horse’s physical and mental fitness, and it boosts confidence and communication between horse and handler – especially during winter when riding time can be limited.

Additionally, many groups run online competitions you can enter from home – check out sites such as Horse Agility Club to find out more.

Set personal horse-riding goals

A bucket list doesn’t have to be about big events. Perhaps it’s time to finally try hacking out alone, popping a slightly higher fence, or riding bareback in the school.

Goals should push you out of your comfort zone enough to improve, but not so much that you lose confidence or struggle to succeed. Try setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (SMART) goals; a clear, achievable plan will help you measure progress. Small wins keep momentum going, and even tiny breakthroughs deserve a pat on the back.

Connect with your local riding community

Joining a local riding club, volunteering at events, or trying a new discipline can broaden your horizons. It’s also a great way to share the journey, swap tips and keep motivation high throughout the year – especially in the depths of winter, when months of mud can really dent morale.

The British Horse Society (BHS) offers links to riding clubs and other resources. You can also check My Riding Life for local events.

Capture memories with a horse-riding photoshoot

Treat yourself and your horse to a professional horse photoshoot. Whether you opt for galloping action shots or a golden-hour portrait in a field, it’s a memorable way to celebrate your partnership and create something to treasure forever.

There are equestrian photographers all over the UK who will either come to your yard or a location of your choice.

Move up a level in a competition

Progress doesn’t have to be huge to be satisfying. You might be stepping up from Intro to Prelim dressage; moving from BE90 to BE100, or aiming for the next height in showjumping. Whatever your goal, having that next step in mind gives your training a focus.

As with any competitive step-up, there’s always an element of risk. But having the right horse insurance in place means you can focus on your goals, knowing that you’re protected.

Book a tack check

Your horse’s comfort is key to progress and enjoyment. Scheduling a professional saddle fit, along with a bridle and bit review, can make a huge difference to your horse’s way of going. Even small adjustments can improve balance, relieve pressure points and help prevent future issues. Think of it as a health check for your tack – your horse will thank you.

Have a clear-out at an equestrian car boot

Many riders find their tack room corners overflowing with items kept ‘just in case’. From old rugs to spare boots, the pile quickly adds up – but a good clear-out frees up valuable space and gives your unused kit a second life.

Equestrian car boot sales are a fun, social way to sell unwanted items and maybe pick up a bargain or two in the process. Local equestrian Facebook pages are usually the best place to find sale dates.

Plan a yard staycation

You don’t have to travel miles to have a horsey adventure. Organise a mini ‘camp’ at your own yard or with a group of friends. Set up fun activities – maybe a flatwork clinic with a local instructor, a bit of friendly showjumping, or even a treasure hunt around local bridlepaths. Add in a BBQ, picnic or evening get-together, and you’ve got a summer highlight to look forward to without the hassle of travelling.