From the flat Cheshire Plain to the rugged landscape of the Lake District, the North West has something for each and every horse rider. Whether you are a keen amateur looking to buy your first house with a stable and paddock, or an experienced owner looking for the highest quality facilities available, we can help you find the most suitable property for your needs. With so much choice, it can be difficult to decide where to buy an equestrian property in the North West.
Before we think about specific areas, let’s go back to the basics of what makes a good equestrian property. Your main priority should always be the land. Whilst you can make changes to a property relatively easily, there is little that can be done to correct the quality of the grazing. Ideally, it should be free-draining to help reduce maintenance and you should avoid sandy or clay soils. In winter, clay can quickly become waterlogged only for it to then dry out too much and harden in summer. A sandy soil can can increase the chances of colic in a horse. Aim for a minimum of one acre per horse.
Another practical element to consider is transport. Whilst owning an equestrian property in the middle of nowhere might sound incredibly idyllic, such a location can become problematic if you then want to travel with the horses. Narrow and winding country lanes can be difficult to navigate with a horsebox so you don’t want to be driving on them for long periods of time. If you plan to show your horses or compete at meets across the UK, we would recommend that you buy an equestrian property in the north west that is within a reasonable distance of a motorway.
With these requirements in mind, where should you buy an equestrian property in the North West of England?
Cheshire
Wherever you look, the gorgeous Cheshire countryside has a wide selection of stunning equestrian properties and supporting facilities.
Whether you are interested in showjumping, dressage or eventing, throughout the year there are regular competitions at centres such as South View arena near Tarporley, Somerford Park Farm near Congleton or Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre
For riding out, the 22 mile Delamere Loop is within a 20 minute drive of Chester. It is a fairly flat route except from a few gentle hills, taking in both Delamere Forest and Little Budworth Country Park. Further to the west is the Bishop Bennet Way. Beginning at Beeston Castle this trail heads towards the Welsh borders. Alternatively, you could head to the historic deer parks at Lyme or Tatton Park or even just along the many quiet country lanes and bridleways
Polo enthusiasts will find excellent facilities at Cheshire Polo Club near Tarporley and also the JF Polo Academy just outside Chester.
Lancashire
Based in Ulnes Walton, the Eccleston Equestrian Centre is possibly the North West’s premier equestrian facility. It caters for a wide range of ages and abilities and regularly hosts events, including Pony Club rallies. This makes it the ideal hub for anyone with children keen to develop their riding. The centre is easily accessible from the local towns of Leyland, Preston, Chorley and Southport, as well as the M6 and M61 motorways. Such proximity to an excellent road network helps to widen out the potential scope of your equestrian property search.
Further north is the Forest of Bowland. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty boasts several different bridleways to suit all levels of difficulty or, if you fancy a gallop along the sands, Southport beach has always been a popular choice
Buying Agent Partnership are highly experienced in guiding people on where to buy an equestrian property in the North West. Contact us on 0330 223 6339 to discuss how we can help you.
