2026 – The Year of the Horse

The 2026 BEI season has officially begun, and what a start it’s been. This month we welcomed our first guests of the year, riders who braved the crisp February air and were rewarded with some truly beautiful clear days to canter along Whitepark Bay.

We have a packed calendar, new opportunities, and a few surprises in store. The team has hit the ground running, and we’re thrilled to share what’s coming up next.

Here’s what you’ll find in this month’s newsletter:

• Our Volunteer Programme
  A chance to spend two weeks in Ireland working alongside our team and horses – perfect for anyone dreaming of a hands‑on equestrian adventure.
• 3‑Day Iconic Competition
  Your chance to win a holiday for yourself and a friend. Saddle up for one of our biggest giveaways of the year.
• St Patrick’s Week Spotlight
  Ever wondered what it’s like to spend St Patrick’s Day in Ireland? We’re shining a light on our special March experiences and how you can join us.

It’s shaping up to be an unforgettable year, and we’re delighted to have you along for the ride.

The Luck of the Irish

St. Patrick’s Day is our most iconic date of the year, celebrated worldwide, but there’s nowhere better to celebrate it than in Ireland itself! For many of our American guests, St Patrick’s Day is more than a celebration, it’s a thread that ties families back to Ireland. Generations grew up with stories of ancestors who crossed the Atlantic, carrying with them memories of home, traditions, and the legends of St Patrick himself. Here in Ireland, those tales still live in the landscape, perhaps most notably with the absence of snakes which is one of the world’s most famous pieces of folklore. 

According to Irish folklore, the credit goes entirely to St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. The story goes that in the 5th century, while Patrick was fasting for 40 days on top of a mountain (now known as Croagh Patrick), he was attacked by a swarm of snakes.
​In a fit of righteous fury, he chased the serpents into the sea using his staff, banishing them from the Emerald Isle forever.

These days, St Patrick’s Day is a celebration of Irish culture, history and folklore, with events throughout the country. You can expect Guinness, traditional Irish music and plenty of singing. It is the perfect time to get a real sense of our community and traditions. 

Looking for a last minute getaway? We are excited to welcome riders for St Patrick’s Week in 2026!

Arrive on March 15th and enjoy a fabulous equestrian vacation that we are known for, with the added atmosphere of this cultural holiday.

Which St Patrick’s Week Ride Suits You?

If you’re thinking about joining us for St Patrick’s Week, we have three fantastic itineraries to choose from — each offering a different way to experience the North Coast’s landscapes, stories, and hidden corners. Whether you want a full week of adventure or a quick escape, there’s something here that will fit beautifully.

1. The Stables Choice – 4 Riding Days + 1 Sightseeing Day at Rathlin Island

This is our most rounded itinerary for the week: four full days of riding through a blend of coastal cliffs, rolling countryside, and private trails, plus a day trip to Rathlin Island — a peaceful wildlife haven famous for its puffins and rugged beauty.
Learn more 

2. The 3 Day Bespoke Classic

Perfect if you want three concentrated days of riding at some of our favourite, lesser‑known or must-see locations. These routes take you into some areas inaccessible to the general public, giving you a true local’s experience of the North Coast’s hidden gems.
Learn more

3. The 2 Day North Coast Adventure

Short on time but still want a taste of everything? This two‑day getaway includes one countryside day and one coastal day — a perfect snapshot of the landscapes that make this part of Ireland so special.
Learn more

All three itineraries are designed for confident riders who are comfortable cantering in open spaces. If that’s not quite you, don’t worry, we have other options and are always happy to help you find the right fit.

Where You’ll Stay

During St Patrick’s Week, we base our riders in and around the charming seaside town of Ballycastle. With its forest walks, sandy beach, independent shops, and a great selection of pubs and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day in the saddle and soak up the local nightlife.

The Volunteer Programmes

COMPETITION

Win 2 spaces on our 3 Day Iconic Ride to Dunluce Castle and the Giant’s Causeway

The Iconic itinerary certainly lives up to its name. Packing the best, and most iconic locations of the Causeway Coastal Route into a one-of-a-kind itinerary.  

How does three days of riding through Ireland’s most stunning coastal landscapes sound? We’re giving you the chance to win our 3 Day Iconic Package for two people, the perfect mix of adventure, beach riding, and unforgettable memories.

What’s Included

You and your guest will enjoy:

• Three nights in welcoming B&B accommodation (twin or double occupancy)
• Three days of guided riding on our Iconic Itinerary
• Daily transport to each ride location
• Breakfast and lunch on your riding days

It’s the ideal way to explore Ireland from the saddle, with every detail taken care of.

Flights, airport transfers (though we can help arrange these), and evening meals aren’t part of the package. Riders must be comfortable cantering in an English saddle before joining.

How to Enter

Taking part is simple:

1. Add your email below to register.
2. Find our competition post on social media and follow/ like our page.
3. Tag the friend you’d bring in the comments.

That’s all it takes to be in with a chance of winning.

Find the post here on socials:

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1CLM2EPn26/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU8AGg-jXd_/?igsh=OGE0NDUxbzVsYWI0

Tiktok – https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNRPPVGdW/

Please check full terms and conditions HERE

Existing Ride Dates 

Hoping to join an existing group and enjoy our most competitive rates? Here’s some of our confirmed arrival dates for 2026