In the sprawling world of The Elder Scrolls 4 Oblivion Remastered, it will take you a very long time to traverse the land of Cydrodiil on foot. While fast travel is an option when you are on a mission to a known destination, it is not conducive to casual exploration of the open world. And that is where horses come in to save the day and your time.
This is a guide to getting a horse for free early in The Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion Remastered.
Armored Old Nag
Speed 28
Health 250
Attack 5
Your free, first horse can be found by interacting with the orc stable mistress:
Snak gra-Bura
At Chestnut Handy Stables
Outside the Imperial City, towards Skingrad
During the dialogue, be insistent about taking any horse, and she will eventually allow you to take possession of Armored Old Nag outside the stables. The only downside to this horse is that her armor cannot be swapped out, making her 250 health the maximum it will ever be.
Horse Theft
It is also possible to steal a horse, but this is risky since any witnesses–even other horses, will mark you as an outlaw with a bounty on your head. Approach the horse you intend to steal while sneaking, and simply mount it to make it your current horse. Ride away as quickly as possible. It will also be necessary to sneak every subsequent time you want to mount your stolen ride, in order to avoid being branded a horse thief.
Like all horses, stolen mounts will eventually return to their original stables or location if you leave them unattended for too long.
That is how to get a horse early and for free in The Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion Remastered.