Horse drawn carriage ride and Picnic Hamper

Thinking about a peaceful break in the Yorkshire countryside? This horse-drawn carriage ride paired with a picnic hamper offers a delightful way to unwind, spot local wildlife, and enjoy some authentic rural scenery. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a tranquil escape, this experience balances scenic beauty with a touch of luxury.

What really makes this tour stand out are the gorgeous views of the countryside, the chance to see deer and buzzards in their natural habitat, and the relaxing pace that allows you to truly soak in the surroundings. That said, it’s a relatively short ride—about an hour—so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you might want to combine it with other activities.

This experience suits couples, nature lovers, and anyone craving a gentle, scenic outing. Keep in mind, the ride is casual and family-friendly, but it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor environments. If you’re after a cozy, authentic countryside moment, this trip could be just what you need.

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Key Points

Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of the North Yorkshire countryside and private woodlands.
Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to see deer and buzzards add a touch of wildlife magic.
Relaxing Pace: The carriage ride lasts about an hour, making it a perfect short escape.
Delicious Picnic: The included hamper features a variety of tasty treats, ideal for a laid-back picnic.
Flexible Options: You can enjoy your picnic in a designated area or explore nearby local spots.
Authentic Experience: Guided by friendly drivers, you’ll get a genuine rural experience with photo stops along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The adventure begins at The Garth in Westfield, Skipwith, with clear instructions to park at the far car park. From there, a traditional horse-drawn carriage awaits, ready to whisk you through the scenic North Yorkshire landscape for approximately one hour. The journey is designed to offer a relaxed, unhurried experience with plenty of opportunities to admire the lush countryside and spot wildlife.

The carriage ride itself is a highlight, with the gentle clip-clop of hooves providing a calming background. The driver, whose name isn’t specified but is described as welcoming, adds to the friendly atmosphere. During the ride, you’ll stop at photo points that let you capture the stunning vistas or get closer to nature—like deer grazing nearby or buzzards circling overhead.

Midway through the ride, hot drinks are served, adding comfort as you take in the scenery and enjoy some rest. The experience’s reviewers, like Conner Hendrix, mention how accommodating the driver was—helping tailor the experience to special moments like proposals, which hints at the personal touch offered.

Back in Skipwith, the tour concludes at the starting point, leaving plenty of flexibility for your next stop or a leisurely picnic. The included picnic hamper is a veritable feast—featuring cheese & onion quiche or pork pies, fresh salad, strawberries, scones with clotted cream and jam, lemon cake, and a cheese platter with crackers. The hamper also includes a bottle of lemonade or water and unlimited teas, coffees, and juices, offering enough sustenance for a relaxed meal.

You can either enjoy your picnic at the designated picnic area or explore nearby local spots for a more lively atmosphere. The flexibility makes this experience great for those who love a mix of serenity and socializing.

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The Ride: What to Expect

The horse-drawn carriage provides a cozy, nostalgic way to explore North Yorkshire’s gentle hills and woodland areas. Because the ride lasts around an hour, it’s well-suited to travelers who want a peaceful escape without a long commitment. The scenery is described as beautiful and open, with plenty of chances for wildlife sightings—reviewers like Maru simply called it “excellent,” highlighting the overall quality of the experience.

The photo stops are strategic points along the route, giving you the chance to capture memories and appreciate the landscape from different perspectives. The driver’s friendly demeanor and willingness to accommodate requests—like making space for proposals—add a layer of personalized service to the outing.

The Picnic: A Tasting of Local Flavors

The included picnic hamper elevates this experience from merely scenic to a culinary delight. The selection of hot and cold items offers a satisfying meal after the ride. The cheese & onion quiche or pork pies, coupled with fresh salad and coleslaw, serve as hearty, traditional British fare. The strawberries and scones with clotted cream and jam are classic treats, perfect for a sweet finish.

For those with a sweet tooth, the lemon cake offers a zesty, moist option, while the cheese and crackers provide a savory complement. These items are curated to be enjoyed leisurely, either in the designated picnic area or in a nearby scenic spot. The inclusion of hot drinks and juices means you can sit back and enjoy the moment without needing to seek out additional refreshments.

Price and Value

At $210 for a group of up to five people, this experience offers a good balance of value considering the inclusions. The carriage ride, combined with the full picnic hamper, creates a package that appeals to those who want both scenic beauty and a gourmet touch without the hassle of planning separate activities.

The personalized nature of the experience—guided by friendly, accommodating drivers—adds intangible value. Plus, the flexibility to reserve and pay later offers convenience for last-minute plans or flexible itineraries. The cancellation policy—full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance—provides peace of mind.

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Who Will Appreciate This?

This experience is ideal for couples seeking a romantic countryside outing, families wanting a relaxed day outdoors, and groups celebrating special occasions like proposals, as noted in a review. If you love stunning rural views, wildlife, and good food, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

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Practical Tips for Visitors

Arrive early to ensure parking at the far car park, especially on busy days.
Dress comfortably for outdoor conditions—layers are recommended, especially in unpredictable weather.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Plan to enjoy your picnic either in the designated area or nearby surroundings for a full, relaxed experience.
Book in advance, particularly if you’re hoping to secure a specific date, as the tours are quite popular.
Check cancellation policies if your plans are uncertain—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours ahead.

FAQ

How long does the carriage ride last?
The ride takes approximately one hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

What is included in the picnic hamper?
The hamper includes cheese & onion quiche or pork pies, salad, coleslaw, strawberries, scones with clotted cream and jam, lemon cake, cheese and crackers, and unlimited teas, coffees, and juices.

Where does the experience start and end?
It begins at The Garth Westfield Skipwith and concludes back at the same spot, making logistics simple.

Can I enjoy my picnic inside or outside?
You can enjoy your hamper in the designated picnic area or explore local spots nearby—the choice is yours.

Is this experience suitable for children or groups?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for groups of up to five people, making it a flexible outing for various occasions.

Do I need to prepare anything before booking?
Just a reservation—pay later options make it easy to plan, and cancellations are free if done 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This horse-drawn carriage ride combined with a picnic hamper provides a charming way to experience North Yorkshire’s gentle rural beauty. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxing, picturesque day out that combines scenic views, wildlife encounters, and delicious local food. The personal touch from friendly guides and the flexibility of options make it a standout choice for a tranquil countryside escape.

While it’s a short journey, the stunning vistas and opportunity to unwind make it worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for couples, families, or groups celebrating special moments in an authentic setting. For anyone wanting a peaceful break with a touch of luxury and a focus on genuine countryside charm, this tour delivers on every front.

Additional Recommendations

If you enjoy this experience, it might be worth exploring similar outdoor or scenic experiences in York or nearby North Yorkshire villages. The nearby options linked in the experience—such as ghost tours or boat cruises—offer a variety of ways to extend your day and discover more of the region’s character.

In summary: For a gentle, scenic, and well-curated countryside outing, the Horse Drawn Carriage Ride and Picnic Hamper offers genuine value and memorable moments in the heart of North Yorkshire.

You can check availability for your dates here: