Our journey to Loose Reins

In August 2020, our family embarked on a new adventure when we moved to Ranch Loose Reins. Prior to this, we were deeply rooted in countryside businesses, seeking the next chapter in our journey. Then, we stumbled upon Loose Reins and were instantly captivated by its enchanting charm. It was a love story that began with the very first visit, and we knew we had found our special place. In the summer of 2021, we welcomed our daughter, Milena, into this idyllic setting and celebrated our wedding at Loose Reins. Our family story is very intertwined with this magical place.

Sam and Yasmin Wilkes from Loose Reins Glamping in Dorset

Our dedication to improvement

Since taking the reins, we’ve worked to enhance various aspects of Loose Reins, with upgrades that valued guests may have noticed. We are very grateful for the support from our past, present, and future guests, who inspire us every day.

Meet Sam Wilkes

The Farrier

Sam is a full-time qualified farrier with a deep passion for horses. He manages his own round of horses here in Dorset, catering to a diverse range of equine needs, including heavy horses. For these majestic creatures, Sam goes the extra mile, handcrafting their shoes from bars of steel. His expertise extends to every aspect of hoof care, ensuring the well-being of horses and ponies alike. Sam honed his skills during his apprenticeship under Tom Smith, a Fellow of the Worshipful Company of Farriers, based in Hampshire.

Sam Wilkes, The Farrier

Meet Yasmin Wilkes

The Dressage Rider

Yasmin is an accomplished dressage rider, trained to Grand Prix level, and a national competitor at the highest levels of the sport. She not only breeds but also meticulously trains her horses. Many of the magnificent horses that guests will encounter at Loose Reins are either bred, currently competed, or once competed by Yasmin herself. Dressage, often referred to as “the dancing horses,” is an art that requires up to a decade of dedicated training to reach the pinnacle of excellence.

Yasmin Wilkes - The Dressage Rider

Meet our furry companions

Our family wouldn’t be complete without our two beloved dogs – Bear, the cheerful Cocker Spaniel, and Rosie, the spirited German Shorthaired Pointer.

Bear works alongside Sam as a loyal farrier’s companion, never straying far from his side. Rosie, on the other hand, is the embodiment of energy and serves as an icon of enthusiasm at Loose Reins.

Loose Reins Dogs by Shop
Shetland Pony at Loose Reins Glamping

Their On-Site Presence

We’re not just the hosts; we’re also the neighbours. We reside on-site, and guests will often spot us tending to the animals that share our home. We’re here to ensure stays are nothing short of extraordinary and that every moment at Loose Reins is filled with warmth and hospitality.

Join us at Loose Reins, where our family welcomes yours to a world of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure.

More to Explore

Check out the luxurious lodges or quaint, cosy cabins. Meet the animals. Peruse the shop. You’ll find there’s more to Loose Reins than you first thought.

 

Lodges

Eat a home-cooked meal at the dining table and unwind on the sofa after a day of adventuring. Watch the sunset from the deck.

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Cabins

Embrace that pioneer spirit in a cosy cabin that's perfect for two. Light the wood-burner and curl up on the king-size bed under an authentic American quilt.

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Animals

Loose Reins is home to a number of two and four-legged animals. From the furry to the feathery, there are so many new friends to be made during your stay.

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