THIS is a good wet weather horse ride, which is also a popular route for cyclists as it uses quiet country roads.

Some of the route is on a fairly rutted path though, so mountain bikes rather than road bikes might be wise. A fair amount of it is along a road, though, and although perfectly quiet, it might be a bit boring for walkers, although there are footpaths that cut out the road, cross fields and link in with Ingthorpe Lane.

None of the ride takes in farmer's fields, so for winter and wet weather riding, there is no danger of sinking into sodden grass or churning up the land. I've started the ride off from East Marton, because that's where the yard I ride from is, but it's a circular route, and can be picked up anywhere - parking accepted of course.

Step by step

1. Set off from Wilkinson's Farm along the bridlepath, cross over the canal bridge and continue with the canal on the left. Pass Greenbank Farm, on the left, and Trenet Laithe on the right. The Pennine Way crosses here and there are often lots of walkers about. Continue along the track, passing Newton Grange 'rural retreat'. Continue along the lane, cross over the canal bridge at Bank Newton, and go down the hill, past Dodgsons Farm and to the road.

2. Turn left along the road and follow it for about two miles. The road is quiet and passes through lovely drumlin countryside. Fields to the left and right usually have sheep or young cows in them and it's a good place to spot weasels. The fields to the left also often have heron in them, and the occasional fast moving deer. Continue along the road through Little Stainton and onwards to a T junction signposted Hellifield to the right.

3. Bear left, passing Stainton Hall on the left, up the hill with a sharp right hand bend. At the top of the hill, take the left bridlepath, signposted one and three quarter miles to East Marton.

4. Go down the hill, pass Pearson's Farm Supplies on the right, and continue along the winding road. There are fields on both sides, and often buzzards to be spotted. Continue, passing listed Ingthorpe Grange on the right.

5. The single track road turns into a bumpy lane now, and might prove a challenge for cycles not of the mountain bike variety, or horses with more tender feet. The path winds its way through a wooded area used for breeding pheasants and in the late summer and autumn, there will be lots of young pheasants about, springing up in front of horses. From the start of the shooting season on October 1, there can also be guns about, so beware if your horse is startled by loud bangs.

6. Continue along the track to its end, where it meets the A59. Bear left here at the barrier and continue along the track at the side of the field before it drops down to the right. Go left at the end of the track, passing the Cross Keys pub on the right, go left and down to Wilkinson's Farm.

Remember:

Horse riders and cyclists should be aware of each other. It's a good idea for cyclists approaching a horse from behind to make themselves known by shouting out a warning to check it's safe to pass.

If a horse does become agitated, cyclists should wait until it is safe to pass.

It's a good idea for both cyclists and riders to wear bright coloured clothing.

Always leave gates as you find them.

Distance: About six miles.

Refreshments: Abbots Harbour Cafe, East Marton; Cross Keys Pub, East Marton.

Parking: Trailer parking available at Wilkinsons Farm Livery, telephone first to make sure on 07933 179278 and on the roadside at Bank Newton.