Horse riders across England will be able to enjoy hacking in more forests and woods from May this year after Forestry England announced it is scrapping the need for a permit to be purchased in order to ride in some of its woodlands.

Following a comprehensive public review of its horse riding paid-for permit system, which has lasted more than two years, Forestry England has removed the requirement to have permits to ride horses in 49 of its woodlands.

The review covered 51 woodlands which required a permit and involved extensive consultation with the equestrian community and their representative bodies. Public comments closed in April 2023 and an internal review ended in February 2025 with the results being announced today (Thursday 6 March).

The results of the review have established that, from May 2025, in 49 of the 51 woodlands concerned, horse riders will no longer need to purchase a permit in order to ride there. 

The other two sites — Bramshill in Hampshire and Hodgemoor Woods in South Buckinghamshire — will continue to require a paid-for permit as they are Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). 

Bramshill is an SSSI for freshwater habitats while Hodgemoor Woods is an SSSI as it has sensitive soils.  

‘A great step’

“We are delighted to hear of the decision to significantly reduce the requirement for equestrians to buy permits to access Forestry England forests,” said Mark Weston, director of access at the British Horse Society.

“The British Horse Society believes that all riders and carriage drivers should be able to enjoy safe off-road networks in the vicinity of where they keep their horses. 

“This is a great step towards allowing equestrians the freedom to explore and enjoy our nation’s countryside in a safe and accessible manner.” 

Forestry England, which is England’s largest land manager, runs and cares for 1,500 woods and forests across England. Over 285 million visitors frequented Forestry England sites in 2023-24.

Increasing visitor diversity

“We are delighted to announce this huge reduction in woodlands that need permits for equestrian access,” said Mike Seddon, Forestry England’s chief executive.

“This will make horse riding accessible to more riders across the nation’s forests. Our decision reflects our commitment for the nation’s forests in our care to be as welcoming and available to visitors as possible, including our equestrian community. 

“The two woodlands where permits will stay need to keep the extra management because they are ecologically sensitive wildlife sites,” continued Mike. 

“Thank you to everyone that took part in our review and for your patience while we worked through each and every permit.” 

Main image (stock) © Charlie Gooders Photography; other images © Shutterstock

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