Horse riding – courses and lessons in the UK

Horse riding in the UK is a tradition and passion that connects generations, from pony clubs for children to advanced sport training. Riding builds fitness, balance and confidence while creating a special bond with horses. In the listings above, you’ll find riding schools and instructors with BHS accreditation ready to guide you from your first lessons to advanced skills.

Tip: When choosing a riding school, check if it is accredited by the British Horse Society (BHS) – this is a recognised mark of safety and quality.

Why choose horse riding?

• Physical development: improves balance, coordination and strengthens the whole body.
• Confidence: working with horses teaches patience, responsibility and self-control.
• Sport and recreation: from dressage and show jumping to countryside hacks and weekend treks.
• Community: group lessons and local riding clubs help you meet people who share the same passion.

Is horse riding only for sport?

No – it can also be recreation, therapy or weekend leisure. Some choose relaxed countryside rides, others focus on structured sport training. Listings above help you find the format that matches your lifestyle.

What lessons and courses are available?

• Private lessons: personalised pace and full attention of the instructor.
• Group sessions: children, youth and adults in small, friendly groups.
• Pony clubs: safe first experiences in the saddle for young riders.
• Sport training: dressage, show jumping, cross-country.
• Recreational riding: countryside hacks, trekking, weekend rides.
• Hippotherapy: therapeutic riding sessions that support health and development.

What is the right age for children to start?

Many children in the UK begin at around 5–6 years old in pony clubs. At this stage lessons are playful and focused on confidence, with technique added gradually at the child’s pace.

Myths & Facts about horse riding

• Myth: Horse riding is only for the wealthy.
  Fact: Many stables offer affordable group lessons and family-friendly programmes.
• Myth: The horse does all the work.
  Fact: Riding engages the whole body – legs, core and balance are constantly active.
• Myth: You need your own horse to learn.
  Fact: Most schools provide horses and basic equipment for beginners.

Tip: For your first lessons, wear comfortable trousers and sturdy shoes; specialist riding boots can come later.

3 steps to choosing a course

1. Define your goal: leisure, child development, sport or therapy?
2. Check qualifications: BHS accreditation, instructor experience, student feedback.
3. Compare formats: private lessons, group training or weekend treks – choose what fits your schedule.

Browse the listings above and select a school or instructor that suits your needs.

Do you run a riding school or stable? Add your listing

Stand out by showing your qualifications, safety standards and atmosphere. Mention BHS accreditation, your approach to horses and riders, and what makes your stable unique. This builds trust and turns your listing into a business card.

See also

If you are interested in related activities, explore these categories:

• Recommended places & attractions – inspiration for leisure planning.
• Hotels & Accommodation – useful when arranging a countryside weekend.
• Boot Camps – general fitness training that supports strength and balance.

Content prepared in 2025 based on equestrian practices and BHS standards. SimpleServiceFinder supports instructors and riding schools in building visibility, reputation and safe equestrian communities in the UK.