Crook Barn Stables
Horse Riding in the heart of the Lake District.
This is the ideal way to experience the fells whilst visiting the Lake District without putting on your walking boots!
Established in 1990 Crook Barn Stables was once part of a traditional Cumbrian farm. The huge “bank barn” is over 170 years old and still retains original features such as the slate cow byres. It is a piece of wonderful architecture designed and built without the use of a computer programme that has made an excellent home for our horses; warm in winter and cool in summer.
There are no sheep or cows here now but our horses share their home with our other animals, chickens, ducks, geese, goats and pigs. Our visitors enjoy the antics of our poultry, often taking fresh eggs home with them. The pigs never fail to delight, especially young piglets. You can read more about our pigs and poultry at www.pigsandpoultry.co.uk and the pig keeping courses we run at www.pigkeepingcourses.co.uk.
We are surrounded by a stunning landscape, the rugged rocky outcrops of the Coniston fells, with views of the Old Man of Coniston, Dow Crags and Wetherlam where often we will see buzzards circling above us and the skylarks entertain us with their singing. Views of Coniston Water with the vast expanse of Grisedale Forest beyond can be seen and on longer, higher rides you can spot the sea.
The old quarries at Bannishead are an interesting relic of an industry still at work in the area. Reportedly the sighting of a UFO took place above here. The Walna Scar road is an ancient right of way and years ago would have seen long strings of fell ponies carrying goods to and from the ports of West Cumbria and the market towns of the county. The zig zags left by the old travellers can still be seen on the hillside. Torver Common is a different terrain altogether, more open and flatter, still stunning views and lots of bird life around Torver Tarn. If you are fascinated in the old routes that criss cross the county you maybe interested in the work of the Cumbria Bridleways Society at www.cumbriabridlewayssociety.org.
Our horses are suitable for beginners and more experienced riders. We have hand picked our horses over the years and are proud of them. We enjoy working with them and know each one as an individual. Whenever possible we will accommodate riders with disabilities. Ride numbers are kept low so we can offer a really personal service.
With easy access to our bridleways and the fells this is an experience that offers fantastic views, a touch of history and company we hope you will enjoy.
A Few Photos
