It's all about dog power as you go husky sledding in Gloucestershire! And despite being Siberian husky dogs, you won't need snow for your dog sledding adventure, as special carts and scooters adapted for sledding in the fields of the UK are used.
Huskies are born and bred to run. The breed is renowned for being intelligent, strong and very loving. These dogs love to pull sleds and love cuddles too, making this husky sledding experience a very energetic and rewarding one as you get to meet the likes of Dashka, Mckinnley and Willow, the Siberian huskies at this centre.
What'll surprise you most is the noise the huskies make as they are being harnessed up ready to be attached to the 'sled', which is a three-wheeled cart. The dogs are so eager to run, they howl and yelp with glee at the prospect of getting to work behind the reins.
Once the three dogs are attached, they soon get into the rhythm and all you'll hear is contented panting from these happy working huskies as you whoosh through the fields of the farm. Your job is steering (or mushing) your sleigh dogs and the expert snowsport tutors will teach you all the commands you need to successfully control and guide your husky team.
Husky sled racing is a growing canine sport in the UK and the grand finale of this husky sledding experience is a timed lap around a race circuit pitching you against your activity partner. This hands on husky experience ends with a 'musher's meal' around the campfire, with the dogs relaxing at your feet.
This 'Musher Experience' is for two people and lasts approximately two hours. The experience includes instruction from a qualified snowsport coach, a meet the team session to find out about the dogs and their personalities, a 'Cani Cross' session where you'll learn to hike/run with the dogs using a special harness and command phrases, instruction on the wheeled trike rig, a solo practice run around the track where you'll take charge of at least three dogs and the rig and a second time trial run around the track to put your skills against the clock and your team mate. After the action you and the dogs will enjoy drinks and a mushers meal around the campfire. Helmets, kneepads and elbow pads are provided.
Lap times are recorded and the guests with the fastest time at the end of the year are invited back for another session.
Sessions are available on regular weekends and weekdays throughout the year however times can be more restricted in summer months. If you are lucky enough to attend during snowy conditions the wheeled rig is swapped for an authentic snow sled.
A farm based leisure and activity centre in the River Avon Valley, Tewkesbury. There is easy access from junctions 8 and 9 of the M5. Aschurch station is just 2 miles away.
Minimum age is 12 years old, all under 16's must be accompanied by either a participating or spectating adult.
Spectators are very welcome to come and watch the fun for free, a £5 fee applies (payable direct) if you'd like to join in with the fireside meal.