I’m a true heavy horse convert! I’ve always loved horses so was absolutely thrilled when Debbie offered to take me riding on her gentle giants. I was a novice and can honestly say I have never felt more at ease, comfortable and in such safe hands as when I am riding Ferdy, Otto and Paddy. They are truly magnificent animals, each with their own distinctive characters yet all absolutely charming and a joy to ride, groom and get to know. My daughters, both complete beginners, have also ridden Ferdy and fallen in love with his gentle and trustworthy nature.

I myself have been fortunate enough to have been riding with Debbie for over a year now and fully appreciate the fantastic facilities her and John have to offer. You cannot wish for a more welcoming and breath taking riding experience set in an idyllic picturesque rural farm setting in the heart of the Lake District. I cannot recommend the experience enough and am now a true heavy horse enthusiast!

A day spent with Debbie and her gentle giants at Whasdyke Farm is a huge treat. From the grooming right through to the tack cleaning, the whole experience is a great escape from the day to day. Of course enjoying the Lakeland Fells on the back of a gentle but responsive Clydesdale is the best bit of all. Not only is Deb an excellent riding teacher if instruction is what you’re after, but it is impossible to worry on horseback and in such surroundings!

Thanks for my wonderful heavy horse experience today! I felt very safe and confident throughout with you and Ferdy. And I’m proud of myself too! Such an achievement, especially as you didn’t just keep me on the straight and narrow. Goes to show we are never too old or unfit to do something new and adventurous! And those gorgeous views and woodland made the ride very enjoyable as well as exhilarating.

Such a unique and memorable experience! – I first visited Whasdyke in summer 2016 and thoroughly enjoyed the fell ride, I can honestly say I have never seen views quite like it, they were simply breath taking and have to be seen to be believed! I rode a gorgeous bay gelding called Paddy who was so much fun -forward going but sensible – I felt very safe on him! The horses at Whasdyke are lovely and friendly, all with there own individual personalities! Debbie is great, so friendly and professional with a wealth of knowledge on horses and also the local area! I would definitely recommend a visit to Whasdyke to any one who is looking for an amazing ‘horsey’ experience within a beautiful setting!

Amazing, loved every minute. This is unlike any other ride I’ve ever done, the horses and the setting create something very special that will stay with me for a very long time. The views are stunning, the lanes are tiny, there’s not a well trodden path in sight, just proper unspoilt countryside for the entire ride and Debbie gave me the confidence to enjoy every moment of this unforgettable experience.

Thanks to Debbie for sharing her amazing boys. I’ve fallen in love with the adorable Ferdy, he’s a real gentle giant and it was lovely to spend time with him. I’ll be back to see him soon with plenty of carrots! Whasdyke really is a very special place.

I recently had the opportunity to go out riding on Ferdy (one of The Boys). I had not ridden for 20 years at least and all I can say is “What a gentleman”! From the start to finish I had the best fun in the most idyllic Lake District setting you could imagine with views straight out over Windermere and the Langdale Fells beyond, it was a truly breathtaking experience and a perfect way to find my riding legs again. Thank you Debbie.

I recently went to Whasdyke farm. I was wary, now I am wise. Sam and Ferdy are gentle giants who calmly and regally took me to all their special haunts. I felt like queen of the fells for a day.