Riding Farm Equestrian Centre
Riding school
Our grading system |
Lessons and lesson prices |
Essential information
Riding Farm is a BHS Approved Riding Establishment and our 2008 inspection saw us recognised as a centre of outstanding performance. Take a tour of our facilities
Our riding school is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with indoor and outdoor lessons taking place from early morning until late evening. Tuition is provided by our BHS trained instructors. We have horses and ponies suitable for adults and children of all abilities.New for 2008: We are one of only a few UK riding schools to offer lessons for children under the age of four. Please contact us to find out more about our private lead rein lessons for three year-olds.
Our grading system
We run our very own grading system for riding school clients. Complete beginners start at Grade 0 and work their way up, with assessments for each grade. Our top level is Grade 8, for riders who compete regularly at a high level.New clients undergo a Graded Assessment so that they can be assured of an appropriate ride for their ability. Rosettes are awarded for all successful assessments and we also offer specially-tailored events for all grades.
Lessons and lesson prices
We offer private (for one rider), semi-private (for two riders) and group lessons, of either half an hour or one hour duration. All clients must have a Graded Assessment as their first lesson at Riding Farm.Depending on the grade that the rider has achieved, lessons can cover flatwork, jumping or a combination of both. For riders who have passed a Riding Farm Hacking Assessment, we offer escorted private, semi-private and group hacks on our 80 acres of land. We also provide stable management sessions on a private or group basis.
Graded Assessments
- One hour private: £52
- Half hour private: £28
- One hour semi-private: £37 per person
- Half hour semi-private: £21 per person
- One hour private Hacking Assessment: £52
- One hour semi-private Hacking Assessment: £37 per person
Private lessons
- One hour private: £50
- Half hour private: £26
- One hour semi-private: £35 per person
- Half hour semi-private: £19 per person
- Half hour private lunge lesson: £29
Group lessons
- One hour group lesson: £20
- Half hour group lead rein lesson: £10
- One hour group hack: £22
Stable management sessions
- One hour stable management individual session: £50
- Half hour stable management individual session: £26
- Two hour stable management group session: £20
In addition to our standard lessons, we offer riding lessons and training for BHS examinations with a BHSI instructor who visits Riding Farm once a week. We also offer specialist show jumping lessons with Sally Gosling, who competes on the national show jumping circuit. Please contact us for more information.
Essential information
Your first lesson
If you're visiting us for your first riding lesson, here are a few tips to help you come prepared.- We have riding hats available for you to borrow for your first five lessons. After that, please provide your own hat that meets current safety standards (BS EN 1384, PAS 015 or ASTM F 1163).
- Please wear a shoe or boot with a low, flat heel. Trainers, sandals or flip-flops are not allowed. We have a selection of riding boots that you can borrow for your lesson, but we can't guarantee to have your size available.
- Wear clothing that is suitable for the time of year and weather conditions on the day. Your lesson might be outside so bring a coat if it's cold or raining. If you'd prefer to ride inside then please let us know at the time of booking. Gloves are a good idea whatever time of year you're riding.
- Jewellery should be kept to a minimum and only stud earrings should be worn. If you're going to be jumping then it's a good idea to wear a long-sleeved top.
Lead rein lessons
Riders aged four and up can take part in private or group lead rein lessons. Each rider must be led by a parent or guardian for the duration of the lesson.Our youngest riders, aged 3, may only book onto private lead rein lessons and must be accompanied by two adults, one to lead and one to support the rider in the saddle.
Payment methods
We accept payment by cash or cheque accompanied by a cheque guarantee card. We are not able to accept payment by credit card. A late payment fee will apply if payment is not provided on the day of the lesson.
Cancellation policy
Please note that 24 hours notice is required for any cancellations, otherwise a cancellation charge will apply. For private and semi-private lessons the cancellation charge is the full amount; for half hour group lessons it is £5; and for all other group lessons it is £10.
