Frequently Asked Questions

Here you’ll find answers to some of the questions we are most often asked about draghunting with the Berks and Bucks Draghounds.

If you are still unsure about anything, please contact our Hon Secretaries. They are always happy to help, particularly if you are joining us for the first time.

Before coming out with us, please make sure you have carefully read and understood our Code of Conduct.

Our main meets usually begin at 12.00pm. Please arrive at the meet location no later than 11.50am, giving yourself plenty of time to park, unload, tack up and be mounted and ready before we move off.

At a lawn meet, drinks may be offered by our hosts before the day begins. Before moving off, one of the Masters will welcome everyone and explain anything you need to know about the country, the planned lines and any other important information for the day.

You should make sure you know who the Field Master is. The Field Master leads the mounted followers, known collectively as the Field, and you should never pass them unless specifically invited to do so.

The Huntsman will then move off with the hounds. When the hounds pick up the laid scent and begin to run, the Field follows across the country, with opportunities to jump fences along the way.

A typical day consists of three or four separate lines, often around 1½ to 2 miles each. There will usually be a break between lines to allow horses and riders to recover, catch their breath and regroup.

You do not have to complete every line. If you feel your horse has done enough, or you would simply prefer to sit one out, please do. Looking after your horse should always come first.

At the end of the day, there may also be tea or refreshments back at the meet.

Please wait until the Huntsman has safely put the hounds away before dismounting and heading back to your horsebox or trailer. If you need to leave before the end of the day, please find a Master and let them know.

And one little tradition to know: when leaving, the customary farewell is “Goodnight Master”, regardless of the time of day.

What sort of horse do I need?

All sorts of horses and ponies come draghunting with us. You certainly do not need the fastest horse in the Field.

For some of our bigger days, however, your horse should be fit, confident across country and, if you intend to follow the jumping route, capable of comfortably jumping fences of around 2’9″ or more.

Most importantly, you should ride a horse you feel safe and confident on.

Our meets vary considerably in terms of terrain, pace and the size or number of fences. We will always try to give an indication on the Meet Card and through our social media as to which days are particularly suitable for newcomers, novice horses or less experienced riders.

Wherever possible, fences are optional and easier alternatives are provided. It is entirely possible to enjoy a wonderful day with us without jumping everything, or sometimes without jumping at all.

Your horse should be suitably fit for the work you are asking it to do.

If your horse is young or inexperienced, please put a green ribbon in its tail so that other riders know to give you a little extra space.

If your horse may kick, it MUST wear a red ribbon. You should also ride in an appropriate position in the Field and take responsibility for keeping your horse a safe distance from others. A red ribbon is a warning to other riders, not a substitute for managing your horse safely.

If a horse is behaving in a way that presents a danger to others, you may be asked to leave the Field.

If you are unsure whether a particular meet is suitable for you or your horse, please contact the Hon Secretariesbeforehand. We would much rather you ask.

What do I wear?

A great example of expected smart turnout levels from the Field  from Victoria Ruffy MDH

Draghunting has wonderful traditions around turnout, but if you are new, please do not let worrying about having every item exactly right put you off joining us.

The most important things are that you are safe, smart and comfortable.

Before the Opening Meet, traditional turnout is usually:

• Tweed or ratcatcher coat or jacket
• Shirt and tie
• Fawn breeches or jodhpurs
• Brown or black riding boots

After the Opening Meet, traditional main-season turnout is usually:

• Black or navy coat or jacket
• White or cream stock
• Fawn breeches or jodhpurs
• Black riding boots

Tweed or ratcatcher is also perfectly acceptable throughout the season, and some meets are specifically designated as ratcatcher days.

If you do not yet own all the traditional clothing, please wear the smartest and safest riding clothes you have. We would far rather welcome a well-presented newcomer than have someone stay at home because they are worried about owning the correct coat.

Masters traditionally wear navy coats with red collars and four gold buttons, while Hunt Staff wear five buttons. Members of the Field who have been awarded their draghunt buttons may wear red collars with black buttons. They are generally experienced members of the hunt and are often very good people to ask if you need help or advice.

A great example of smart turnout in the Field from Victoria Ruffy MDH

Safety is more important than tradition.

You should always wear an appropriately fitted riding hat meeting current safety standards. A plain black or navy hat cover looks smartest with traditional hunting dress.

Body protectors are strongly recommended, particularly for children, less experienced riders and anyone intending to jump.

Long hair should be neat and securely tied back, traditionally in a hairnet or bun.