About our yard

Cunetio Stables, run by Heather and Mick Flippence, is situated in the old Roman village of Mildenhall, just outside Marlborough. Cunetio (pronounced cue-netio) was the Roman name for the village.

We keep a yard of young, fit, well-schooled horses that we use for our own pleasure and to take out competent riders on escorted rides. Rides can last from one to two hours to a picnic ride which can take all day, or we can arrange a weekend of riding to include bed and breakfast.

We are registered with Wiltshire County Council which means that our premises are inspected and our horses vetted annually. Our inclusive rate is £20 an hour. Please ask for full day or weekend rates.

We believe we live in one of the most beautiful areas of England where the riding is unsurpassed. From a canter through the Valley of the Stones, one of the most primeval and natural valleys in the country, to a gentle walk along the lanes, taking in the wild flowers, animals and birds that are a part of each ride, we can give you an experience we think you will want to repeat. .

We have a range of horses, from thoroughbreds to small ponies, up to large cobs capable of taking a heavier rider. Where possible we would recommend joining one of our quieter hour long rides to begin with - particularly sensible for those who haven’t ridden recently.

We can take out up to 10 riders but we often ride out in smaller groups to facilitate more adventurous rides. We are always pleased to accommodate individual needs, whether this is a one-to-one to regain confidence or a group of friends wanting an exciting day out. However we must emphasise that we do only cater for experienced riders.

We don’t ‘teach’, however over the years we have developed a strong group of young riders (12-18 year olds) who ride with us regularly and we will bring on young people with ability and confidence who have had experience in a riding school and are now ready to join one of our quieter hacks.

Those wanting to join our longer rides need to be confident riders who have the stamina and ability to handle their horse at a trot, canter and gallop in a controlled and safe manner. Whilst we want all our riders to have an enjoyable and exhilarating ride, and we tailor each ride and horse to suit the riders joining us, we are not a trekking stables and our horses are not trekking ponies! It is therefore very important that you don’t over-estimate your ability.

Leaving the yard for a Sunday morning hack