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A favourite jaunt on horseback in the Cornish countryside by Gemma Viant. The infectious enthusiasm for riding horses was overwhelming when I met with Anne Lewis to discuss Kit Hill Country Park and the beautiful hacking that falls within the area of the Stoke Climsland and District Riding Association (SCADRA). With a warm welcome she explained: “It is ironic to take part in this feature because the club originated from a group of friends sharing their favourite hacks, now we have approximately 80 members of all ages and abilities. “There is a cobweb of lanes and bridle-ways and we have many favourite hacks. Kit Hill provides varied terrain, plenty to look at and good parking.” The rugged Cornish hilltop is steeped in history. Climbing to just over 1,000 feet above sea level it lies within the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and boasts a tremendous view. Nature lovers will spot a variety of wildlife; keep an eye out for Dartmoor ponies that graze the hill between October and March.  Warden Chrissie Le Marchant explained: “They tend to be rather timid but horse riders must be aware of them and please shut the gates.” There is a horse route marked with wooden posts and blue arrows. Numerous gates are easy to open from horseback with a design tested by members of the SCADRA. The track is suitable for all abilities although the terrain is rocky in places so it is not recommended for those wanting a fast ride! Significant points of interest are the quarry that began in the 1880s to provide granite for sea defences as far away as Singapore and the South Kit Hill Mine dating back to 1856. To get to Kit Hill, exit the A30 on to the A388/B3257 towards Callington. Stay on this road for approximately 10 miles (towards Tavistock) and Kit Hill is on the right. For those wanting a faster ride you can park at Kit Hill and cross the B3257 easily to access a myriad of bridle-ways. Anne proudly said; “The SCADRA is influential in reopening bridle-ways and members have been involving in clearing green lanes. There are several circular routes using these paths including Deer Park and Sheba Woods but riders need to be aware that a permit is required to access some of these areas and the ground is stony in many places.” Gemma Viant |