About Us

Phone: 01207 562221

Fax: 01207 562221

E-mail: info@cwhra.com

The Birth of Chopwell Wood Horse Riding Association.

 

Up until 1999 anyone riding in Chopwell Woods had to purchase a Horse Riding Permit.  At the time this was about £38.00 per annum – quite a hefty amount to pay out especially if other family members also rode.  However, following negotiations between the British Horse Society and the Forestry Commission it was agreed that horse riding would be free in most woods and forests managed by the Forestry Commission EXCEPT for those woods classed as “high amenity woodlands” and yes, you’ve guessed it, Chopwell was woodland of high amenity!

 

The Forestry called a meeting of all the local horse riders in the area to explain the situation and to offer an alternative solution to the permit scheme.  The meeting was very well attended and the Forestry Commission put forward the suggestion that if we could form ourselves into an association whose members would help to improve facilities for horse riders and promote safe and responsible riding on the forest tracks then the yearly riding permit would be waived.  From this first meeting Chopwell Woods Horse Riding Association was born with a committee of members and a constitution. The rest, as they say, is history.

 

We’ve come along way since then as an association. We have a membership base in excess of 150 and hold an event every month of the year which are very well attended. We have negotiated with local government and bridleway access groups to improve our riding network which all adds up to making your riding experience not only safer but more enjoyable!

 

For the junior members of the association we have just appointed a junior events organiser (at our 2007 AGM) so watch this space!

To contact us:

Chopwell Wood Horse Riding Association