Most of these are clearly obvious, look for cattle tracks that will often follow the contours for some way along a steep valley side to get to the crossing. Beware of deep water if the river is high. If in doubt don’t do it, just go the long way round. Some crossings are just awful and not recommended at any time, the ones we know are mentioned in the maps, please advise of any other bad ones you know about. Look for obvious signs of recent use, sometimes there is another one nearby that is better. Sometimes flash floods will have moved stones or bank-sides to make a usually good crossing hazardous. Some have boggy areas very close by so follow previous tracks closely even if a little muddy.

In New Zealand people take their feet out of the stirrups when crossing rivers, that is not common in UK but perhaps keep just the toes in the stirrups or be ready to get your feet out and abandon ship if your horse goes in. It is a very common sight and usually just very amusing for everyone else but is potentially dangerous situation to be in.

If the water gets so deep that it reaches the horses belly it is too deep so turn back if you can as it may overbalance.

When going down hill steeply or into rivers remember to grip tight and lean very well back, conversely when leaving river-banks or going up steep banks lean well forward and hold onto the neck strap to help you stay on. Make sure your girth is tight.

Some ponies not used to the moor may cross water but will not go down a short sharp awkward drop of the type that is very common in eroded crossings. This can be very frustrating particularly for groups of pony club riders with one that just won’t.....Have some pony nuts or really tasty treats available, it might just help.

Leats: These are usually small man made watercourses following the contours of the hill sides and if in use will always be someone’s water supply and need a lot of maintenance. Do try to avoid damaging the sides by charging through or badly jumping them. Do look for a bridge or proper crossing.