Errislannan Manor
Equestrian Centre in Connemara 🐎🌊
Steeped in 18th-century heritage, Errislannan Manor is a quintessential Connemara estate that specialises in the breeding and training of the world-famous Connemara Pony. Originally constructed as a hunting lodge, the manor is set upon a private 220-acre peninsula, featuring a unique microclimate that fosters lush, enchanting gardens.
It is most widely recognised as the home of the Errislannan Manor Connemara Pony Stud and the Connemara branch of the Irish Pony Club, making it a foundational site for equestrian culture in the West of Ireland. Reviewers and visitors often describe the atmosphere as “walking back in time,” noting the pristine cobbled yards and the serene views of the Twelve Bens mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
Equestrian & Estate Features
The manor operates as a full-service riding facility and a working stud farm, providing an immersive experience for both novice riders and serious horse enthusiasts.
| Feature | Service Details | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Riding Centre | Lessons & Treks | Guided tours through moors and mountains on home-bred ponies. |
| Connemara Stud | Historic Bloodlines | Preserving lines dating back to the 1950s; mares and foals visible in fields. |
| Manor Gardens | Public Exploration | Member of the RHSI Gardens for Charity scheme with rare camellias. |
| The Grounds | 220-Acre Estate | Includes wildflower meadows, woodlands, and a private trout lake. |
Operating Hours & Schedule
Pony Trekking: Monday – Friday (Morning sessions usually at 10:00 am and 11:30 am)
Pony Club Rallies: Saturdays (During season)
Gardens: Open to the public daily (Seasonal variations apply)
Note: Advanced booking is highly recommended for all riding activities as sessions fill up quickly, especially during the summer months.
Contact & Location Info
Phone: +353 (0)95 21134
Email: [email protected]
Location: Located approximately 4 miles (6.5 km) south of Clifden. Follow the signs for the Errislannan Peninsula—the drive itself offers dramatic coastal scenery and mountain views.
Tip: If you are visiting with children, the “Tuck Shop” in the car park is a nostalgic local ritual. For photographers, the view from the top of the hill overlooking the manor with Clifden Bay in the background is considered one of the most stunning vistas in Connemara.
FAQs about Errislannan Manor
Do they offer residential riding holidays for kids?
While the manor has historically hosted popular residential holidays where children are assigned their own pony for a week, they do not offer on-site accommodation. Participating children typically stay with local host families in the Clifden area.
Is riding experience necessary to go trekking?
No, the centre caters to all skill levels. The Connemara ponies are known for their sturdy, gentle nature, making them ideal mounts for beginners and young children, though more challenging hacks can be arranged for experienced riders.
Is there a fee to visit the gardens?
The gardens are part of the Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland’s “Gardens for Charity” scheme. While visitors are welcome to explore, a small donation is typically requested at the entrance to support the designated charities.
About the Pony Trekking & Riding Centre
Set on the Connemara coast four miles south of Clifden, Errislannan Manor is a stately old manor estate with gardens, woodlands, a trout lake and equestrian centre that breeds Connemara ponies and guides tours by horseback through the estate and into Connemara’s moors and mountains.
Sheltered by a surrounding wood the Manor overlooks the trout lake and houses the Errislannan Manor Connemara pony stud and riding centre. Erisslannan Manor provides the rare opportunity for riding and trekking on the famous Connemara ponies. Since 1960 Errislannan has also bred Connemara ponies, using the same female bloodlines. Also on the Errislannan Estate is an impressive garden that has earned membership into the Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland Irish gardens for charity scheme.
Pony trekking takes place each morning from Mon to Friday each morning and rates are charged by the hour. Generally 1-2 hours provides plenty of time in the saddle. Private treks can be arranged.
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