Many thanks to all those who are making the trip and supporting the event now in its 8th year - and thank you for all your wonderful feedback. Of course, I couldn't organise this event without my amazing helpers, your assistance is greatly appreciated!
Situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the country, the Poplar Park Sandlings Ride derives its' name from the Sandlings area in which the venue lies. The uncluttered coast, estuaries, farmland, sweeping forest and heathland is of high scenic value, and in 1969 it was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
The Sandlings area is both dramatic and picturesque. The huge sky, golden gorse, sandy fields and swathes of heathland large enough to support wildlife that can exist nowhere else certainly make for truly memorable riding experience. Upper and Lower Hollesley Commons are fine examples of large surviving heathlands that support wildlife species such as the attractive silver-studded blue butterfly, woodlark, stonechat, Dartford warbler, nightjar and hobby. Fallow, red, roe and muntjac deer also live on the heathland in the Sandlings.
The origins of Rendlesham forest can be traced back to the creation of the Forestry Commission in 1921 to provide timber resources for the nation from new forests. At that time, landowners were eager to sell poor, semi-derelict farmland and heathland to the Commission. Large areas of sandy soil in the Sandlings region of Suffolk were planted and today they have grown into atmospheric pine forests that include Rendlesham where much of the ride will take place.
HORSES:
Horses can either be stabled or coralled on site.
Stabling is charged at £20 per night with a straw bed.
Coralling is £10 per night.
Please pay for your stable or coralling with your entry.
ONSITE FACILITIES:
There is water, toilets and showers on site. The muck trailer will also be available for use.
Refreshments will be available.
There will be a photographer be sure to pick up their card when you collect your rosette.
ACCOMMODATION ON SITE:
You can camp onsite in a tent or your lorry.
The farmhouse has a self-contained flat available to rent. Please visit the 'Welcome Cottages' website using the reference W41231
B&B AND PUBS IN THE VILLAGE:
Richmond Hill B&B | Phone: 01394 411758 | Address: Rectory Road, Hollesley
The Shepherd and Dog | Phone: 01394 411855 | Address: The Street, Hollesley IP12 3QU
The Sorrel Horse Inn | Phone: 01394 411617 | Address: Hollesley Road, Shottisham IP12 3HD
The Ramsholt Arms | Phone: 01394 41122 | Address: Ramsholt, Woodbridge IP12 3AB
The Plough | Phone: 01394 411785 | Address: Main Road, Sutton IP12 3DU
The Swan | Phone: 01394 411366 | Address: The Street, Alderton IP12 3BL
The Owls | Phone: 07779208954 | Address: Oxley Dairy, Shingle Street IP12 3BD
Here is a selection of photos from the ride - many thanks to Cawston Camera Club and my timekeepers for taking these great action shots!
Antonia (Bo) Hardwick
Poplar Park Equestrian Centre
Hollesley
SuffolkIP123NA
Tel: 01394 411023
Mob: 07879063822
All entries can be made on the Endurance GB website via their clubhouse system.
Please contact the ride organiser with any sponsorship enquiries.
