An Extraordinary Adventure Along the Welsh Border
When 24-year-old Bethan Matthews set out to ride the entire 1,500km Welsh border with her homebred five-year-old mare, Charm, she knew it would be challenging. What she didn’t expect was just how life-changing the experience would become. Over the course of an ambitious 29-day trek, this determined rider and her equine companion are not only conquering some of Britain’s most spectacular landscapes—they’re also raising vital funds for two deserving charities.
Beaches, Bridges, and Beyond: The Journey So Far
Running a livery yard near Brecon hasn’t stopped Bethan from pursuing this wild dream. “It’s been amazing so far—I don’t want to come back,” she enthuses about the adventure. The route has taken her and Charm across diverse terrain, from long stretches of sandy beaches to challenging mountain passes, highways, and rolling hills.
One particular highlight? “One day we did 15km straight along the beach,” Bethan recalls with evident joy. “I am loving all of it, spending time with my horse doing more than we ever could at home.” It’s clear that this journey has reignited her passion for riding and her bond with her young mare.
A Year in the Planning: Meticulous Preparation Pays Off
Such an ambitious undertaking doesn’t happen by accident. Bethan spent a full year planning every detail of this trek, and her preparation is evident in how smoothly the journey has unfolded. Days in the saddle have ranged from demanding 11-hour stretches to more leisurely 20km outings—all carefully balanced to ensure Charm’s wellbeing.
“Our longest day was just over 60km,” Bethan explains. The key to managing such demanding distances? Strategic rest and nutrition. “We always stop so Charm can have her lunchtime feed. I have a support vehicle which is a horsebox, and if the weather is bad, Charm can stand in there for some hay.”
Keeping Charm Comfortable: Smart Saddle Solutions
What makes this adventure truly remarkable is Bethan’s thoughtful approach to her mare’s comfort and nutrition. She’s made clever adaptations to her tack, including riding bitless—a decision that’s proven invaluable.
“She can graze more easily bitless, and I try and make sure she always has something in her stomach,” Bethan explains. This approach has allowed Charm to snack frequently throughout the day, keeping her energy levels stable. Though Bethan jokes, “The stopping to graze is a habit I’ll probably have to get her out of when I get back now!”
The bond between rider and mare is palpable. Despite the grueling schedule, Charm has settled beautifully at each new location. “So far, every time we’ve got to a new place to stay she’s been chilled as long as there is food,” Bethan says. “I was worried if she was turned out in massive fields I might not be able to catch her when she’s doing so much work each day, but she’s always come to me.”
More Than Just a Ride: A Charitable Mission
Beyond the personal achievement, Bethan’s trek carries significant meaning. By undertaking this grueling journey, she’s raising awareness and funds for two charities close to her heart. It’s a reminder that adventure can serve a purpose greater than ourselves.
The Takeaway
Bethan Matthews and Charm’s 1,500km Welsh border trek is more than just an impressive equestrian feat—it’s a testament to the incredible bond between horse and rider, the power of meticulous planning, and the heights we can reach when we’re willing to push beyond our comfort zones. With nearly a month still ahead, we can’t wait to see where this extraordinary journey leads them next.
Are you inspired by Bethan’s adventure? Share your own epic riding tales in the comments below!