Explore Loudoun Official Visitor Guide - 2025 Explore Loudoun Official Visitors Guide

TROT, CANTER GALLOP

Experience Horse & Hunt Country

Middleburg has been America’s horse and hunt country capital since the early 1900s, its serene countryside preserved for racing, jumping, fox hunting, steeplechase and more. Discover equestrian experiences in this historic town and beyond.

Horse History: The National Sporting Library & Museum in Middleburg celebrates the literature, art and culture of equestrian and outdoor pursuits. Explore the fine art gallery, special exhibits and reading room, and learn how The Great Hound Match of 1905 helped establish the area as an equestrian playground.

Equestrian Inn: At Welbourne, a historic B&B near Middleburg, guests can visit with horses sent to the farm to retire.

Horse Resort: Salamander Middleburg is home to an equestrian center, riding trails, equine-themed art and a miniature horse, Cupcake, that guests can meet in the living room.

Saddle Shopping: Journeyman Saddler in Middleburg uses age-old skills and techniques in hand-crafting saddles, bridles and other unique leather pieces.

Star-Studded Polo: Morven Park International Equestrian Center in Leesburg hosts polo matches in summer and bi-annual horse trials.

Hunt Museum: Morven Park’s Museum of Hounds & Hunting North America includes an art gallery and a fox hunting Hall of Fame.

Therapeutic Rides: Project Horse Empowerment Center in Lincoln offers horse-centered therapy, wellness and team building programs.

Riding Tours: At Dark Run Stables in Hillsboro, expert rider Louisa Rice guides backroad tours to a winery, brewery and ice cream truck.

Horse Trails: The Washington & Old Dominion Trail is open to horses in certain sections while Oatlands Historic House & Gardens has miles of backcountry trails.