The industrial revolution cut back on the horses use as a method of transport but the slack was taken up by increasing interest in the leisure pursuit of horse riding. There are many different types that you can pursue. Sadly, only the very tiny goblin people can make a go of horseracing as a career, but other activities open to all include show jumping, dressage and trail riding.

Show jumping is a competition event where you take the horse over a series of jumps such as artificial walls and hedges, coloured rails, gates and water obstacles. The show jumping course generally consists of around twelve jumps. Marks are calculated on how well you negotiate the jumps - i.e. you don't knock them all down - and on how fast you complete the course.

Contrary to popular belief, dressage is not all about putting your horse's mane into tiny plaits. Attractive though he may look with a French twist, marks in dressage are given for the rider taking the horse through a series of precise and carefully controlled manoeuvres.

If all this is sounding a bit like the favourite leisure pursuit of a 13-year-old English girl called Samantha who has a pony called Miffy Sniffles III, then don't worry. Horse riding can be edgy. Trail riding will bring the cowboy out in you, riding through Northern Ireland's dusty outback, with just your trusty horse, eight other people and experienced instructor to see you through.

Horse riding is something that we do particularly well and there are a variety of well established riding schools and equestrian centres to choose from. If you don't get trampled, it's also good for your health, stimulating muscular endurance in the legs and cardio-respiratory fitness. Horse riding also gives you a chance to re-live your childhood pony fantasies. Remember how you used to cry when you heard the Black Beauty theme tune? Feel the wind in your hair again!