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This is part of Britain's National Bridle Network, a series of cross-country routes that are being developed for long-distance horse riders. The way-marked 153 km (95 mi). Three Rivers Ride through the glorious Welsh Marches starts at Tidbach near Bromyard in Worcestershire enters Herefordshire at Wolferlow and crosses the Rivers Lugg and Wye before entering Wales at Hay Bluff and continuing through the Brecon Beacons National Park to the third and final river - the Usk - finally finishing at the mountain Centre (Brecon Beacons Visitor Centre) near the town of Brecon.
This really is a scenic ride par excellence, with stunning views all the way. It is a journey of two halves. The first section in Worchestershire and Herefordshire offers a peaceful ride past cider orchards and through the classic English countryside, across the rapidly flowing River Lugg and long breathtaking Wye Valley.
After crossing the Welsh border the second section runs through a sweeping bank of hills, along the Western flank of the Black Mountains, skirting the picturesque Llangors Lake and crossing the River Usk.
Some riders do the full journey, whilst others prefer to concentrate on the more dramatic mountain scenery of the 56-km (35-mi) Welsh section. The weather in the Brecon Beacons can be unpredictable, and the Path itself is often far from human habitation, so riders are advised to take appropriate all-weather gear and be sure to tell someone their plans before starting out for the day.
Don't assume you can rely on a mobile phone to summon assistance if something goes wrong in the remote Welsh hills - there is rarely a signal.
Those who don't have their own horse will find several riding and trekking stables that can provide mounts for the Three Rivers Ride - including sturdy and locally bred Welsh cobs.
A selection of bed and breakfast stops for both rider and horse can be found along the route, together with self-catering cottages that have stables.
The best way to traverse
On Horseback
When to visit
May to September for the best weather
Duration of the journey
At least a week for the full Ride - more it undertaking side exploration.
Highlights
- A bottle of locally brewed farm cider from one of the village shops in Herefordshire - rather stronger than most commercial brews!
- Cefn Hill near Hay-on-Wye - for wonderful views of England to one side and of Wales to the other.
- Lord Hereford's Knob - a striking hill on the northern edge of the Black Mountains - those who think the name a trifle rude may prefer to use the Welsh Tampa
You should know
There is a further riding trail at either end of the Three Rivers Ride - the Sabrina Way in England and the Epynt Way in Wales
