WITH the huge increase in the popularity of side saddle riding in Ireland in recent years, many hunts are now organising meets for those brave enough to venture forth riding aside. During January and February there is a feast of days organised and these very often include a social event in the evening making it the perfect excuse for a weekend away in some of Ireland’s best hunting country following some of the finest packs of hounds.

Having grown from the initial side saddle hunts, organised by Susan Oakes in the Meath country in February and October 2012 to 50 riders following the Meaths in January 2013 and then 60 following the Tara Harriers in November 2013, these hunts are now becoming a regular feature of the hunting calendar.