In the matter of tack, the Highway Code says what you SHOULD do when riding on the road, not what you MUST by law do. It is advisory in this matter. However, if you are ever unfortunate enough to be in an accident, whether or not you have abided by the advice in the Highway Code is likely to have a bearing on any legal decisions made either in your favour or against you. In addition, your rider's insurance or your horse insurance may well dictate that you are not covered to ride on the road unless using a saddle and a bridle. So, although no policeman will arrest you for riding your horse bareback down the road, you might wish that he had done if you are involved in an accident and end up badly injured with no insurance cover, or if you are sued by someone and your insurance was invalid ...

Do you know about bridleways? thanks guys! v. annoying though! hehe!

I would say, I will never come closer to you if you riding bearback on a road. I don't want to break my trusty old car which is already half broken.

Regards

Jehanzeb