pony treking/horseback rides near Keswick or Edinburg

I have never seen horses/ponies on the trails around Keswick or anywhere in the Lake District proper and I've hiked there quite extensively. As horses hooves are quite destructive to trail systems I wouldn't be surprised if they are not allowed (pure speculation on my part admittedly) - there is currently a huge trail conservation effort. Maybe if you venture out of the area?

I can't recommend a specific place because I've never needed to use one (I ride with my friend using one of her horses on the moors in Lancashire), but they do exist in Cumbria. Google 'pony trekking Cumbria' and 'pony trekking Edinburgh'. Being out on a horse in that fabulous landscape is fantastic. I will say that a certain level of riding experience is a good idea, though that should be clearly stated by each establishment that offers pony treks. I've seen fairly young children out on the moors having a great time.