Thorpe Morieux has long standing ties to the Equestrian fraternity thanks to its Agricultural heritage. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the end of the Great War and we will be commemorating the horses, both working and leisure, who went to war and never returned.
In the current day we still have 8 yards in and around the village, one of which offers livery (both DIY and Full livery). Although there is very little off road riding in the village (two cul-de-sac bridleways) we are still blessed with being near enough to many of the major Equestrian venues in the East Of England.
Showjumping & Dressage
For show jumping or dressage you can head to The Jays or to Boyton Hall (both less than 30 minutes away), or to Anvil Park, Topthorn or Finchingfield (an hour away). If you prefer Horse Trials or Cross country riding we are an hour away from Stratford Hills, Horseheath and Poplar Park, 90 minutes from Ely Eventing Centre and less than 2 hours from Keysoe, Burnham Market and Great Witchingham.
Hunting
If you like the idea of hunting but would prefer to chase a man in a Boiler Suit, you can spend a day with the East Anglian Blood hounds who meet all over the area and do have meets within an hours drive. Or if you prefer drag hunting behind fox hounds, you can follow the Suffolk hunt, The East Essex hunt, The Essex and Suffolk hunt or the Easton harriers. All of the local hunts have a Pony Club so children can join in with a whole range of Pony Club activities from unmounted stable management courses to Tetrathlon.
Racing
We are fortunate to be just 26 miles from Newmarket where you can hire the gallops or watch a days racing. Many of the racing yards have open days and welcome visitors. If you’re an early riser you can see the 100’s of horses crossing the Newmarket road on the way to their morning exercise from about 7am.
Forest Rides
If you enjoy riding around the forest you can park & ride at Kings Forest for just £7 per lorry at Wideham Farm which is 40 minutes away. Local showing classes are also available at venues such as the Lavenham & District riding Club or at The Jays or Topthorn. Those who want to progress to countr level can enter classes at the Hadleigh show, the Suffolk Show or the South Suffolk Show.
Point to Points
Point to Points can be found at Ampton, Higham , Cottenham, Fakenham and Horseheath and we also have a Team Chase at Semer which is 15 minutes away.
Veterinary
Newmarket is also home to three of the largest veterinary hospitals in the country where services range from Nuclear Bone Scans and MRI right up to stud services such as AI. Local vets with equine expertise include Catley Cross, Ryder Davies, Richard Frost, Stowe Vets and Swayne and Partners.
Village Riding Community
The village has a wealth of experienced riders and retrainers. The Facebook page Thorpe Runners and Riders is a good source of information and advice if you need further help.