Castle Leslie Estate and its world class Equestrian Centre is located in County Monaghan and is only 80 minutes from Dublin airport and 60 minutes from Belfast airport. Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, the Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure. It is the perfect place to discover the thrill of exploring the beautiful Irish countryside on horseback.

Ireland is known as the “Land of the Horse” for its horses’ reputation for bravery, agility, stamina, intelligence, and gentleness. Guests’ mounts will be Irish Sport Horses, Connemara Ponies, Irish Cobs, and Irish Draughts.

Happy Hackers is for anyone who enjoys the simple pleasure of exploring the countryside on horseback. This package involves daily estate rides, with 3 hours’ riding per day as part of a group session. Riders booking the Happy Hacker package should be comfortable at the walk and trot. Each rider will participate in a Riding Assessment upon arrival and will only be allowed to participate in rides suitable to their level, at the discretion of the instructors. 

Accommodations at Castle Leslie Estate are spacious en-suite rooms located in the Lodge, a cut-stone stable courtyard, lovingly restored and imaginatively decorated retaining its period features and original character.

Castle Leslie features two restaurants - Conor’s Bar and Snaffles Restaurant. A full Irish breakfast is served daily in Snaffles Restaurant, and additional dining options include Afternoon Tea or a picnic on the grounds. Happy Hacker packages include daily full Irish Breakfast and a choice of a 2-course meal each night in Conor’s Bar or a main course in Snaffles Restaurant.

Activity options at Castle Leslie include Victoria Spa Treatments, Traditional Afternoon Tea, Clay Shooting, Falconry, Archery, Carriage Rides or an exquisite picnic lunch! We can book these on your behalf, and they will be charged to your final bill at Castle Leslie.