Meditate With Horses: An Unconventional Escape into Calm and Nature
Imagine starting your day in Ambleside, Cumbria, with the gentle sounds of hooves in a lush field, surrounded by the striking scenery of the Lake District. For about $80.82 per person, you can spend anywhere from 2 to 6 hours engaging in a calming, meditative experience designed to help you connect with rescue horses and find a sense of true stillness. Guided by knowledgeable instructors, this experience is as much about mental clarity as it is about bonding with these gentle creatures.
Two aspects really stand out. First, the opportunity to lay down with the horses and feel their warm, steady heartbeat is a rare chance to truly slow down and connect on a deeper level. Second, the virtue of the setting—holistically calming, surrounded by mountain views and fresh country air—makes it an ideal way to reset after busy travel days or as a peaceful start to your holiday.
A possible consideration is that this experience doesn’t include riding, so if your main goal is equestrian skills or scenic rides, this might not satisfy that craving. However, for those seeking mindfulness, emotional connection, and nature, this retreat offers a unique blend that’s hard to find elsewhere.
This experience is perfect for nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a break from traditional sightseeing. If you’re open to a slow-paced, deeply relaxing journey into meditation and animal connection, you’ll find it very rewarding.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Deep relaxation through guided meditation and connection with rescue horses.
- Beautiful rural setting in the Lake District with mountain views.
- Focus on mindfulness and mental clarity, not riding or physical activity.
- Supports rescue horses, with all proceeds going toward their care.
- Small group or private options available, enhancing personal attention.
- Suitable for all mobility levels, with wheelchair accessibility and safety instructions provided.
An In-Depth Look at “Meditate With Horses”
The Location: Holmeshead Farm and the Lake District
Your journey begins at Holmeshead Farm, where you’ll find a working farm surrounded by the iconic scenery of the Lake District—think rolling hills and craggy peaks, including views of the Langdales. The farm’s peaceful atmosphere is ideal for those seeking a break from urban chaos, and the setting itself acts as a natural meditation partner.
The experience is designed not just as a quick activity but as a way to start your holiday on a relaxed note. The calm environment allows you to shed your daily worries, and if you’re staying nearby, beautiful accommodation is available, making for a seamless, restful escape.
The Schedule: From Safety Briefing to Serenity
The tour generally starts with a safety briefing—about 30 minutes—where you’ll learn what to expect, how to interact with the horses, and safety precautions. Then, the real magic begins. The experience often involves grooming the horses with gentle circles of curry combs, a task that helps build trust and calmness.
Following grooming, participants move into guided meditation and breath work, often in a peaceful outdoor setting. The description of the morning light, the mare’s breath, and the quiet surrounding nature paints a picture of serenity. You’ll be encouraged to feel the horse’s heartbeat, which, according to reviews, is a transformative aspect of this experience.
More Great Tours NearbyInteracting with Rescue Horses: The Heart of the Experience
All horses involved are rescue animals that have been rehabilitated through this gentle, meditation-led approach. The philosophy behind it is fascinating: horses are herd animals that sense changes in hormones and heart rates, and when you meditate, your body shifts into a state that horses mirror.
Participants consistently mention how horses become “gooey and sleepy”, which creates an almost hypnotic, healing effect. One reviewer, Janice, described it as “magical to go through a guided meditation and to feel the same peace and calm as these beautiful animals.” The horses’ presence invites you into a moment of stillness and connection, often described as both grounding and uplifting.
The Atmosphere: Quiet, Open, and Authentic
The experience isn’t hurried or crowded. You’re encouraged to breathe, feel, and simply be. The quiet, contemplative atmosphere is complemented by the natural surroundings—oak trees swaying in the breeze, mountain vistas, and the fresh scent of hay and wet earth. Many reviewers appreciated the simplicity of the tasks like grooming, which fostered a sense of rhythm and mindfulness.
The Final Circle and Reflection
After the meditation, participants gather in a circle to share their insights—what they’ve learned from the horses, moments of stillness, or newfound peace. One reviewer noted, “It was interesting and relaxing, enjoyed meeting the horses and taking some time to breathe and chill with these gentle creatures.” The horses often remain nearby, dozing in the sun, enhancing the feeling of tranquil connection.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The experience covers instruction, safety talk, breath work, guided meditation, and support—the essentials for a meaningful mindfulness session. It’s important to note that riding is not part of this experience; it’s more about connection and relaxation than physical equestrian skills.
Practicalities and Booking
You can reserve easily with the option to pay later—a flexible choice if your travel plans are still unfolding. The experience is accessible for wheelchair users and offered in English and French, which adds a touch of international friendliness.
Bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes, especially if visiting during colder months. The organizers recommend wearing old clothes and full waterproofs if necessary, as you’ll be outdoors most of the time.
Authenticity and Value
The primary value of this experience is the deep emotional and mental benefit of connecting with horses in an unhurried, natural setting. Given that 100% of the fee goes directly to caring for the rescue horses, it’s an experience that feels both meaningful and ethical.
The reviews highlight how participants leave with a feeling of peace and a lasting memory—not just of the scenery but of the calmness they found within. It’s a rare opportunity to slow down and learn from animals that have also found a second chance at life.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is best suited for those seeking mental clarity, animal lovers, and anyone eager for a mindful, restorative activity. It’s ideal if you’re open to quiet reflection rather than action-packed excursions; a perfect fit for travelers who appreciate authentic, gentle interactions over high-energy adventures.
If you enjoy being outdoors, value supporting rescue animals, or want a break from busy sightseeing, you’ll find this experience both refreshing and meaningful. It’s especially recommended for first-time meditators or those curious about mindfulness in nature.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
In a landscape full of hiking trails and historic sites, this meditation with horses offers a rare chance to slow down and connect meaningfully with nature and animals. For a modest price, you gain more than just a simple activity—you get a chance to reset your mind, feel the presence of the natural world, and support rescue horses at the same time.
The stunning setting, the gentle guidance, and the authentic connection with rescue horses make this a valuable addition to any trip to the Lake District, especially if you’re craving a peaceful, soul-nourishing experience.
FAQ
What should I wear for the experience?
Bring warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and full waterproofs if necessary. Old clothes are recommended since you’ll be outdoors and possibly grooming horses.
Is riding included?
No, this experience does not include horseback riding. It focuses on connection, meditation, and gentle interaction with the rescue horses.
How long does the experience last?
The duration varies from 2 to 6 hours depending on availability and your choice. Check the schedule when booking.
Is it suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your travel plans shift unexpectedly.
Are there guides who speak languages other than English?
Yes, the experience is offered in both English and French, catering to an international audience.
What is the main benefit of this tour?
Most participants find that it helps them find stillness, gain clarity, and experience a deep sense of relaxation—plus, the joy of bonding with rescue horses.
In the end, Meditate With Horses provides a heartfelt chance to reconnect with yourself and nature in a setting that’s both beautiful and purposeful. It’s a gift for anyone looking to slow down, breathe deeply, and learn from creatures that embody calm and resilience.
You can check availability for your dates here: