Arctic Quest Sled Dog Adventures
Arctic Quest Sled Dog Adventures
Arctic Quest Sled Dog Adventures
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About
now you don't have to travel to Alaska to enoy the thrills of working with these amazing sled dogs. Arctic Quest is the only company in the UK that gives you the chance to learn how to mush a team of dogs yourself.There is plenty of hands on time with the team as you become an integrual part of the team. We offer several packages including children and you can even choose to stay in our traditional Sami Tipi to fully experience life as a musher. This really is an experience of a lifetime and one not to be missed.
Tewkesbury, England
Features animals
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2023
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5.0
241 reviews
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5
Suzanne H
2 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
We spent a wonderful morning with Vickie and her incredible dogs. Vickie was informative and very safety conscious advising us sensibly of potential dangers particularly on a frost covered field. We loved our opportunity to interact with the huskies and hounds and we met Vickie’s world championship winning team. It was great to watch Vickie’s skill and care in handling her dogs. The rides were great fun and very exciting even for the spectators.
Our experience ended with hot drinks and bacon sandwiches by the campfire which were much appreciated on a bitterly cold day. It was fascinating to chat with Vickie and hear about her life competing around the world. We would highly recommend this experience. Thank you Vickie!
Our experience ended with hot drinks and bacon sandwiches by the campfire which were much appreciated on a bitterly cold day. It was fascinating to chat with Vickie and hear about her life competing around the world. We would highly recommend this experience. Thank you Vickie!
Written 1 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ryan B
1 contribution
Sep 2023 • Couples
The experience was one of a kind and so much fun. Also getting to meet all the dogs and learn more about the dog sledding experience was another perk. Vickie was so knowledgeable and personable which just added to the day!
Also spent two nights in the herders hut which was a great getaway from the modern world. Stocked with everything from plates to firewood we were able to enjoy the outdoors.
Highly recommend to anyone!!
Also spent two nights in the herders hut which was a great getaway from the modern world. Stocked with everything from plates to firewood we were able to enjoy the outdoors.
Highly recommend to anyone!!
Written 2 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Charles M
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Couples
I am not even sure where to start writing this review, as the experience was so far beyond expectations, it is difficult to explain. We will absolutely go back again to enjoy Vickie her team and her four legged friends company. The overall experience was educational, inspiring and fun.
I booked the Gold Package for my Wife as a birthday gift for her and I. My wife is an experienced dog trainer and therefore has a clear view on ensuring the treatment of dogs, and indeed any animal is at the forefront of anything they are involved in. Therefore, when I was looking at options all over Europe, my priority was to find a place where the dogs were prioritized over everything else.
Having reviewed a number of different places, through reading all the information on the website for Arctic Quest and also the reviews here on Trip Advisor. I was comfortable that the dogs well-being was the priority over anything else, which gave me the confidence to book. My understanding was 100% correct which was the first of part of the great overall experience. Every communication with Vickie stressed the fact that she puts the dogs well -being above EVERYTHING else. I also asked that the package be customized to focus purely on the dogs and not the option of cycling or paddle boarding offered as standard. Vickie was more than accommodating of this request.
Then to the experience itself. The package booked had the accommodation for 2 nights included. We arrived on the Friday late afternoon and were met by Vickie. She immediately made us feel more than welcome and gave options on the Friday. The standard was an outdoor cinema, however we got the option to join her instead as she exercised two of her furry team mates in a nearby lake. Obviously we went with the latter option. Following this we then all sat down to dinner together and Vickie treated us like friends openly discussing any and all aspects we wished to and happily fielding multiple (read that as hundreds!) of questions we had. Then we settled down for the night in the cute, cozy and very well equipped herders hut. Complete with an exceptionally well stocked hamper and cool-bag of food and refreshments.
Saturday we got to meet more of the four legged gang. We were taken through the history of the sport, had the breeds explained to us. Then we were given a safety briefing and guide to sledding itself. Vickie made it clear we were under no pressure and there was the option to either try the rig, or exercise the gang using the quad. We opted for the rig and are so glad we did. Vickie was very calm and structured in her guidance and carefully introduced us to the dogs and selected specifically to ensure they were safe and aligned to our skill level, or more-so lack of! Ensuring we were eased in gently to allow us to learn while not putting any of the dogs at unnecessary risk. Then as the day progressed we met more and more of the dogs and gained experience of the different breeds pulling the rigs. When we asked Vickie to give us a demonstration in the late afternoon as to how she did it, she happily obliged! Amazing to watch and to see the dogs so excited.
Throughout the entire day it was obvious watching all the dogs, the bond they have with Vickie. Everyone of them treated like a pet and showing adoration for their two legged parent! Just seeing Vickie with them so calm and careful, even when they decided to be mischievous!
The evening was then spent having dinner with Vickie and her team and friends. It was so relaxed with a lot of laughter, questions, learning and food!
Learning about Vickie and her journey to this point and how she got into the sport and developed was super cool to learn. She is truly inspiring to talk to and understand her drive and motivation.
The one thing I would point out to anyone considering doing this. If you want a simple thrill just to get some adrenaline pumping, then this may not be the best place for you. Absolutely you do get a thrill and an adrenaline kick, but this is not a fun fair. The dogs are emotional, living beings. They are not a roller coaster to jump on and off for fun. You need to treat them with the respect they deserve, understand that it may not always go to plan. However that is the fun of it, this is an educational and all involving experience with Vickie, her team and of course the dogs. Get the most out of it by expecting that and you will have more fun and get more satisfaction than you will ever get in a lifetime of fun fairs!
I booked the Gold Package for my Wife as a birthday gift for her and I. My wife is an experienced dog trainer and therefore has a clear view on ensuring the treatment of dogs, and indeed any animal is at the forefront of anything they are involved in. Therefore, when I was looking at options all over Europe, my priority was to find a place where the dogs were prioritized over everything else.
Having reviewed a number of different places, through reading all the information on the website for Arctic Quest and also the reviews here on Trip Advisor. I was comfortable that the dogs well-being was the priority over anything else, which gave me the confidence to book. My understanding was 100% correct which was the first of part of the great overall experience. Every communication with Vickie stressed the fact that she puts the dogs well -being above EVERYTHING else. I also asked that the package be customized to focus purely on the dogs and not the option of cycling or paddle boarding offered as standard. Vickie was more than accommodating of this request.
Then to the experience itself. The package booked had the accommodation for 2 nights included. We arrived on the Friday late afternoon and were met by Vickie. She immediately made us feel more than welcome and gave options on the Friday. The standard was an outdoor cinema, however we got the option to join her instead as she exercised two of her furry team mates in a nearby lake. Obviously we went with the latter option. Following this we then all sat down to dinner together and Vickie treated us like friends openly discussing any and all aspects we wished to and happily fielding multiple (read that as hundreds!) of questions we had. Then we settled down for the night in the cute, cozy and very well equipped herders hut. Complete with an exceptionally well stocked hamper and cool-bag of food and refreshments.
Saturday we got to meet more of the four legged gang. We were taken through the history of the sport, had the breeds explained to us. Then we were given a safety briefing and guide to sledding itself. Vickie made it clear we were under no pressure and there was the option to either try the rig, or exercise the gang using the quad. We opted for the rig and are so glad we did. Vickie was very calm and structured in her guidance and carefully introduced us to the dogs and selected specifically to ensure they were safe and aligned to our skill level, or more-so lack of! Ensuring we were eased in gently to allow us to learn while not putting any of the dogs at unnecessary risk. Then as the day progressed we met more and more of the dogs and gained experience of the different breeds pulling the rigs. When we asked Vickie to give us a demonstration in the late afternoon as to how she did it, she happily obliged! Amazing to watch and to see the dogs so excited.
Throughout the entire day it was obvious watching all the dogs, the bond they have with Vickie. Everyone of them treated like a pet and showing adoration for their two legged parent! Just seeing Vickie with them so calm and careful, even when they decided to be mischievous!
The evening was then spent having dinner with Vickie and her team and friends. It was so relaxed with a lot of laughter, questions, learning and food!
Learning about Vickie and her journey to this point and how she got into the sport and developed was super cool to learn. She is truly inspiring to talk to and understand her drive and motivation.
The one thing I would point out to anyone considering doing this. If you want a simple thrill just to get some adrenaline pumping, then this may not be the best place for you. Absolutely you do get a thrill and an adrenaline kick, but this is not a fun fair. The dogs are emotional, living beings. They are not a roller coaster to jump on and off for fun. You need to treat them with the respect they deserve, understand that it may not always go to plan. However that is the fun of it, this is an educational and all involving experience with Vickie, her team and of course the dogs. Get the most out of it by expecting that and you will have more fun and get more satisfaction than you will ever get in a lifetime of fun fairs!
Written 30 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mertzie***
Exeter, UK5 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
An Amazing experience that will never be forgotten.
Accompanied by his Dad, We purchased this adventure for our 6 year old grandsons birthday, as we wanted to do something a little different
From the time we got to the venue to the time we left, the whole experience was thrilling.
Vickie is an inspiration and cares passionately about her Dogs. Her attention to detail was exceptional, from the initial briefing, to harnessing the dogs and thundering down the course at great speed.
Initially, I was slightly apprehensive as the hounds were so excited and just wanted to run but Vickie being such an experienced handler made it all look so seamless. She is DEFINATELY in a league of her own.
Being spectators, my husband and I had the time of our lives just watching something so amazing.
Afterwards, we all had coffee and bacon rolls, cooked by Vickie herself.
Unbelievable experience that our son and Grandson cannot stop talking about.
Big thanks to Vickie and Nom xx
Accompanied by his Dad, We purchased this adventure for our 6 year old grandsons birthday, as we wanted to do something a little different
From the time we got to the venue to the time we left, the whole experience was thrilling.
Vickie is an inspiration and cares passionately about her Dogs. Her attention to detail was exceptional, from the initial briefing, to harnessing the dogs and thundering down the course at great speed.
Initially, I was slightly apprehensive as the hounds were so excited and just wanted to run but Vickie being such an experienced handler made it all look so seamless. She is DEFINATELY in a league of her own.
Being spectators, my husband and I had the time of our lives just watching something so amazing.
Afterwards, we all had coffee and bacon rolls, cooked by Vickie herself.
Unbelievable experience that our son and Grandson cannot stop talking about.
Big thanks to Vickie and Nom xx
Written 3 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fake Antartic Sam and Sticky Vicky
Portsmouth, UK5 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Incredible to meet Vicky and learn all about dog sled racing and her amazing plans for the future. The dogs are really friendly and it was fun to see the different personalities as the team were all brothers and sisters. It was a glorious adrenaline ride and one we wound highly recommend.
Written 8 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David Q
2 contributions
May 2023
What an amazing experience, we were there this morning for our daughters birthday treat with a friend. The dogs are amazing, Vicky is amazing, if you love dogs, you will love this, if you don’t love dogs , then you will by the end. Me and the wife weren’t taking part, but we would of paid just to help with the dogs, which we did. I checked you tube for Vickys vids after the trip, have a look before you go, lovely lovely person, the word that comes to mind is inspirational, I have zero doubt she will get that gold medal soon. The kids loved the riding, we loved all of it. Just book it , you will love it and you’re supporting a future world champion
Written 6 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maybs247
Cardiff, UK36 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
Superb time with Vickie and the pack. We were well briefed with a strong emphasis on safety, and Vickie let us choose what we felt we were comfortable with- either a solo ride or with her as a tandem.
The sensation of riding with the dogs was amazing and we easily got up to 22/24mph with these awesome animals who live to run.
Once the dogs had calmed down after their sprint we had plenty of time to meet and stroke the dogs and ask lots of questions.
The morning ended with Vickie brewing up over an open fire and sharing a very welcome bacon or egg sandwich cooked over the flames.
Good luck with everything Vickie and the dogs.
Vickie is an incredible woman and I’d recommend this to anyone!
The sensation of riding with the dogs was amazing and we easily got up to 22/24mph with these awesome animals who live to run.
Once the dogs had calmed down after their sprint we had plenty of time to meet and stroke the dogs and ask lots of questions.
The morning ended with Vickie brewing up over an open fire and sharing a very welcome bacon or egg sandwich cooked over the flames.
Good luck with everything Vickie and the dogs.
Vickie is an incredible woman and I’d recommend this to anyone!
Written 15 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hazyd2000
Cambridge, UK14 contributions
Apr 2023 • Family
Wow wow wow! What an incredible day. From start to finish it was clear just how much Vickie loves her job and her dogs. Very clear instructions of what to do and what not to do. Wonderful group of people in a lovely natural setting. Vickie’s dogs are beautiful and well cared for. A real hands on experience, getting up close to a massive collection of dogs. The look on our daughters face said it all after returning from and exhilarating run with a pack of huskies - a HUGE SMILE and splatters of mud! Bacon rolls and a cup of tea at the campfire was absolutely perfect. We’ve loved today and would thoroughly recommend this experience. Great value for money.
THANK YOU VICKIE! x
THANK YOU VICKIE! x
Written 13 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jenny C
Milton Keynes, UK11 contributions
Apr 2023
An impulsive Christmas present purchase based on my partner's love of Huskies, the outdoors and living off grid. And I have to say, it's a jackpot gift!
We stayed in the Shepherd's Hut the night before and it was truly a gift in itself. We cooked on the central fire, rolled around amongst the fleeces and furs, listened to the silence, and embraced the sense of simplicity that a fire, the sounds of nature and a feeling of electronic disconnection can deliver so easily.
In the morning, we met Prin, Vickie's very able helper, as well as Vickie and her wonderful team of amazing dogs. We spent time getting to know the other lovely couple and their children who joined us for the experience too. Soooo many synchronicities. We learnt a huge amount from Vickie - the drive, passion, commitment and literal hard-ass work it takes to produce a team of champions.
My other half thoroughly enjoyed the mushing experience - so hands on with the dogs, learning the basics - and then, literally off and into the high-speed world of sledding. Bloody amazing from start to finish.
I had the most amazing time watching, talking, learning and the absolute delight of spending time with Prin :-). We refueled with enormous bacon/egg sandwiches and drinks around the campfire.
I cannot recommend it enough. We will definitely be back. Go get that Gold Vickie!
We stayed in the Shepherd's Hut the night before and it was truly a gift in itself. We cooked on the central fire, rolled around amongst the fleeces and furs, listened to the silence, and embraced the sense of simplicity that a fire, the sounds of nature and a feeling of electronic disconnection can deliver so easily.
In the morning, we met Prin, Vickie's very able helper, as well as Vickie and her wonderful team of amazing dogs. We spent time getting to know the other lovely couple and their children who joined us for the experience too. Soooo many synchronicities. We learnt a huge amount from Vickie - the drive, passion, commitment and literal hard-ass work it takes to produce a team of champions.
My other half thoroughly enjoyed the mushing experience - so hands on with the dogs, learning the basics - and then, literally off and into the high-speed world of sledding. Bloody amazing from start to finish.
I had the most amazing time watching, talking, learning and the absolute delight of spending time with Prin :-). We refueled with enormous bacon/egg sandwiches and drinks around the campfire.
I cannot recommend it enough. We will definitely be back. Go get that Gold Vickie!
Written 7 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CharlotteSays
Bournemouth, UK35 contributions
Apr 2023
We organised for a group of 20 to do this experience and the entire group has a fantastic time. Vickie is so engaging and informative and it's so interesting to hear about how she became the UK's leading dog sled racer. Of course the highlight of the day is spending time with the dogs and you can tell Vickie is passionate about the wellbeing of her dogs, she clearly loves them dearly and the dogs absolutely love what they do. After dog sledding we prepared and cooked our own trout, had a delicious stew and roasted marshmallows on the campfire. It was a very wholesome and rewarding day and this is kudos to Vickie and her team for looking after us so well
Written 6 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yogfee
188 contributions
Hi , is there a chance to interact with the dogs ?
My child loves huskies
Can we spectate ?
laylaaxc
Birmingham, UK239 contributions
Hi,
We are planning to visit during the Christmas period. What days are you open? Also we will be staying locally with our two dogs is it ok to bring them along to the site?
arcticquest
Gloucestershire
Hi,
Many thanks for your question - I am really booked up now and would struggle to get anything in until Mid Jan, can you drop me an email of the dates you are in the area and I can have a look and see if there is anything I can do for you: (email is on my website)
Many thanks
Vickie
Caroline M
Solihull, UK20 contributions
How much does it cost please for husky rides?
arcticquest
Gloucestershire
Hey Caroline
Many thanks for your question.
The full mush is £99 per person and group bookings start at £30 per person. Hope this helps please feel free to drop me an email or call with any other questions or if you wish to make a booking. Many thanks vickie AQ
07968794758
Grahame U
England27 contributions
We are coming to Tewksbury for a few days in September and I am really attracted to your facility. A few questions:
- I have a small spinal stenosis and this has affected my sense of balance to the extent that I have had to give up riding horses and flying aeroplanes. There don't seem to be any other effects. I could possibly ride a bike, but I haven't tried. Otherwise I am quite fit and healthy. Would this be OK for sledding?
- In view of the above, I see you have different sled configurations, from a 2-wheel bike to a more tricycle shape. Is this relevant?
- What are the times of your sessions?
- Is a meal included?
- I think my wife will prefer to spectate and I see a £10 fee. Will she be able to see all of the action? (in other words, do you follow a small track or a long woodland trail?)
Thanks
RichardHogg
6 contributions
Hi, I have Parkinsons which similarly effects my balance. With the 3 wheeled trike I didn't have any problem. You get to try your abilities & confidence over just a few yards first to see how you handle it. My Step-Daughter wasn't very confident, so she rode on the back of the quad bike while the Husky's were being trained in a pull of this.
The circuit is just a short one, so your wife can see just about all the action. The food is prepared on a skillet over an open fire & is excellent! Just a bacon or sausage sandwich, but really hit the spot.
Wendy l
Oxfordshire, UK
Would this be suitable for our 23 yr old grandson
arcticquest
Gloucestershire
Hey Wendy,
Many thanks for your question and sorry I have only just responded this has only just come through to me. I hope the above helps answer your question. 6 years old is the minimum age and thanks everyone for the such kind words.
Many thanks
Vickie AQ
Wendy l
Oxfordshire, UK
We are thinking of buying this for our 23 yr old grandson, in your opinion would it be suitable for a lad of that age ?
arcticquest
Gloucestershire
Hey Wendy,
Many thanks for your enquiry. Yes no problem at all we can cater from 6 years up. If you wish to make a booking or buy a voucher the best thing to do would be to drop me an email or call, this info is found on our website (sorry I cant post that on this reply, if you google Arctic Quest you should find at the top)
Many thanks
Vickie
Blueskiesandsmiles
fortiesfloozy342 contributions
Hi all,
how easy is it to get around say to Graceland, Missip river cruise, sun studios (the usual sights i suppose :) from Springhill? Hope to going in November so i'm guessing it's quieter then?? also how safe do you all see it as being? all input welcome, thanks :)