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Pack ponies, pack pony, wild, wild camping, glamping, wild glamping, UK, England, Dorset, walking, walk, trekking, trek, holiday, mini break, adventure

What is an Ancient Trail?

We walk the land, we sleep under the stars, our ponies pack the kit.

Dorset is a stunning county - we work in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with gorgeous weather. It is a complex network of rolling fields, ancient woodlands, pine plantations and the tracks and green lanes that connect them. We take the work out of your walk by planning routes that maximise the wow factor, giving you plenty to feast your eyes on while we guide the way. Our walks with the pack ponies vary from 3 to 10 miles in length and can be done in a single day:

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Meander through heathland, woodland & plantation.

Cross sparkling fords, take in distant views.

Visit thatched villages and medieval churches.

Climb ancient ridgeway trails and smugglers routes.

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As wild camping in England is not actually legal in most places, we have worked with landowners to secure safe and beautiful places to pitch with the ponies along these walking routes. Some of the locations we've been lucky enough to secure are so pretty and peaceful we stay for longer. Our camps or glamps give you a taste of the wild:

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Camp in ancient bluebell woodlands, cook on the fire.

Glamp in pine plantations, with outdoor showers.

Camp in quiet corners of a farm in AONB.

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Our trails are carefully matched to give you the best experience with pack ponies - we do gentle walks with an extended glamp in a private plantation, or more challenging routes with a wild camp and a communal meal on a camp fire.

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Walk further, camp wilder, breathe...

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

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Haley, Bristol

I joined Ancient Trails for my first post-lockdown hike and camp during Easter school holidays. The entire experience was positive, wholesome and mentally renewing. The ponies are extremely well-trained, well-mannered and sweet whilst remaining working animals who know their jobs

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Chris & Jenny, Hants

We had the most incredible time! 

Evie and Bob were wonderful as were Karen and Mark. Incredibly welcoming, knowledgable about the walks and handling of the horses. We have not stopped talking about our trip!

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Steph & family, Bournemouth

We had the most amazing weekend walking the ancient trails.  Evie and Bob (the ponies) make the walk that much more special and carried everything for us. The camp is beautiful and secluded. Our own little bit of wild. The food was delicious. Thank you for a memorable weekend. We've booked our next one

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