Horse drawn carriage ride and Picnic Hamper

Horse Drawn Carriage Ride and Picnic Hamper in North Yorkshire

Imagine yourself gently gliding through rolling fields, past grazing sheep and maybe even catching sight of a deer or a buzzard soaring overhead. For those craving a peaceful, authentic slice of the English countryside, this Horse-drawn carriage ride combined with a luxurious picnic hamper offers an ideal escape. Priced at $210 for groups up to five, this experience lasts around an hour, starting from the charming village of Skipwith. You’ll enjoy tranquil views, a bit of wildlife spotting, and a tasty feast afterward — all in one delightful package.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines relaxation with the chance to see beautiful scenery that you might not easily access on your own. The gentle pace of the carriage makes it perfect for soaking in the landscape and unwinding. We also appreciate that the picnic hamper includes a generous variety of local treats — from cheese and salads to scones with clotted cream — creating a lovely, informal way to enjoy the countryside.

However, a consideration for some travelers might be the limited duration of the ride — just about an hour — which might not satisfy those looking for a longer adventure. Also, since the ride takes place in a rural setting, it’s wise to check the weather forecast, as heavy rain could impact the experience.

This activity is best suited for couples, families, or small groups who want a tranquil, scenic outing with a dash of culinary pleasure. It’s particularly appealing to those who appreciate authentic countryside views and a relaxed pace that allows conversation and photos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Scenic countryside and wildlife sightings like deer and buzzards
Relaxing experience in a traditional horse-drawn carriage
Delicious picnic hamper with local cheeses, scones, strawberries, and more
Flexible booking with pay-later options and full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance
Approximate duration of one hour with photo stops included
Ideal for small groups or couples seeking a peaceful getaway

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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Starting Point

The tour begins at The Garth in Westfield, Skipwith. You’ll want to park in the far car park, as instructed, and prepare for an outing into North Yorkshire’s scenic countryside. The meeting point is straightforward, and the ride ends back at the same location, making it easy to plan your day without complicated logistics.

The Carriage Ride: A Journey through Nature

During the ride, which lasts about an hour, you’ll glide through private woodland and open fields. The pace of the carriage is slow, making it perfect for taking photos, absorbing the landscape, and relaxing. Guides will steer the horses gently, and the experience is described as “very welcoming” by past guests.

Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to spot deer and buzzards, with some reviews praising the scenic views as “beautiful.” The ride itself is a calm, unhurried escape that emphasizes peace and quiet, allowing you to disconnect from the modern world for a while.

Halfway through, hot drinks are served, adding a cozy touch to the journey. The photo stops are well-placed, giving you a chance to capture the sweeping vistas or close-up shots of the horses.

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The Picnic Hamper: A Taste of Local Flavors

Once back in the village, the picnic hamper awaits. It’s a hearty, thoughtfully curated spread, including cheese & onion quiche or pork pies, fresh salads, strawberries, and clotted cream with scones. The selection also features lemon cake, cheese with crackers, and beverages like lemonade or water.

Guests can choose to eat in the designated picnic area or explore nearby local spots, which adds flexibility. The hamper offers a generous enough portion for four, making it a perfect post-ride treat or a leisurely meal at your own pace.

The value here is clear: for around $210, you get a scenic, authentic carriage ride, a hot drink during the trip, and a full picnic, all in a picturesque setting. This combination appeals especially to those who love combining gentle sightseeing with good food, such as couples celebrating an anniversary or families seeking a relaxed outdoor activity.

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The Reviews: Authentic Insights

Guests have expressed high satisfaction with this experience. One reviewer, Conner Hendrix, highlighted how accommodating the driver was, even helping with a special proposal plan, calling it a “10/10” experience. This suggests the guides are friendly and flexible, adding a personal touch.

Another guest, Maru, simply described it as “Excellent,” reflecting the overall positive sentiment. The reviews emphasize the beautiful scenery and kind hosts, making it clear that the experience’s strength lies in its authenticity and personal service.

Practical Details

Booking is flexible thanks to the pay later option, and cancellations are fully refundable if made 24 hours in advance. The group size is limited to five, maintaining an intimate atmosphere perfect for conversation and photo opportunities.

The duration of around one hour makes it manageable for most itineraries, and the cost is reasonable given the inclusion of a full picnic and the scenic ride. Keep in mind, if the weather turns poor, the experience might be less enjoyable, so checking the forecast is advisable.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic activity that balances gentle sightseeing with good food, this is an excellent choice. It suits romantic couples, small family groups, or friends who want a relaxed outdoor experience. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy authentic countryside settings and are looking for a slow-paced, picturesque adventure in North Yorkshire.

Those wanting a longer or more vigorous activity might find the hour-long ride a bit short, but it’s perfect for a half-day outing. Also, if wildlife watching is a priority, the sightings of deer and buzzards might make this stand out.

Final Thoughts

This horse-drawn carriage ride paired with a picnic in North Yorkshire offers a rare opportunity to slow down and truly appreciate the landscape. It’s a simple, charming experience that combines scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and delicious local food — all at a fair price. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a peaceful retreat, this tour delivers on its promise of a relaxing countryside escape.

Given the glowing reviews, especially highlighting the beautiful views and friendly hosts, it’s clear this experience resonates with travelers who value authenticity and a personal touch. The photo stops and wildlife sightings add an extra layer of interest, making it more than just a ride — it’s a memorable, calming journey into rural England.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, you can book now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning your trip. You can also cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the carriage ride last?
The ride lasts approximately one hour, with included photo stops and a break for hot drinks.

Is the picnic suitable for dietary preferences?
The picnic includes a variety of traditional British treats like cheese, salads, scones, and strawberries. For specific dietary needs, it’s best to check directly with the provider.

Where does the experience start and end?
It begins at The Garth in Westfield, Skipwith, and the ride concludes back at the same point, making it easy to plan your day.

Can I bring children?
The experience is designed for groups up to five, which can include families. However, always check with the provider regarding age restrictions or suitability for very young children.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and consider the weather — layers are always a good idea, especially if rain is forecast, as the ride is outdoors.

In all, this carriage ride and picnic combo offers a charming way to enjoy North Yorkshire’s countryside in a relaxed, authentic manner. It’s perfect for those who want gentle scenery, wildlife sightings, and a delicious local meal — all wrapped into one memorable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: