Trousers

Suitable:

• Riding tights
• Jodhpurs
• Leggings
• Close-fitting stretchy trousers

Not Suitable:

• Jeans
• Shorts

Jeans and shorts can cause discomfort and rubbing while riding.

Tops

Suitable:

• T-shirts with shoulder coverage
• Long-sleeved tops

Not Suitable:

• Strappy tops
• Crop tops

Hair

If your hair is long:

Suitable:

• Low ponytail
• Plait

Not Suitable:

• High ponytails
• Buns
• Hair accessories on top of the head

Riding helmets should fit snugly and securely. Hair tied high on the head can affect the fit and become uncomfortable.

Jackets & Jumpers

Please ensure:

• Zip-up jackets are fully zipped
• Hoodies are secured

Loose or flapping clothing can startle horses and ponies.

Footwear

Recommended:

• Riding boots
• Wellington boots
• Boots with a small heel

Not Suitable:

• Trainers
• Sandals
• Open-toed shoes

Trainers can become trapped in stirrups, creating a safety risk.

We have a small selection of riding boots available to borrow, but we cannot guarantee your size will be available.

Riding Helmets

You may bring your own riding helmet if it meets current UK safety standards:

• PAS 015:2011
• VG1 01.040 2014-12
• ASTM F1163 (SEI marked)
• SNELL E2016

Helmet hire is available for £3.50.

Our staff will check all helmets before use.

Step 1 – Report to the Office

The office is located immediately on the right-hand side as you enter the stable yard.

This is where:

• Helmets are fitted
• Boots may be borrowed
• Staff can answer any questions

Step 2 – Use the Facilities

The toilet is located within the office building beyond the helmet and boot storage area.

Step 3 – Go to the Arena

The arena is located up the hill from the office.

Please wait outside the arena until instructed by your coach.

Do not enter the arena until invited by a member of staff.

Group Lessons

You will:

• Meet your pony
• Learn your pony's name
• Ride in a safe follow-the-leader formation
• Be guided through the lesson by your instructor

Private Lessons

You will:

• Receive one-to-one coaching
• Work at your own pace
• Focus on your individual goals and experience level

After Your Lesson

At the end of your lesson, your instructor will assess your riding ability. Your online profile will be updated to reflect your grade. This will then allow you to book group lessons that are appropriate to your level.

New Riders

You will begin on our Beginner pathway. Please refer to our Rider Development Pathways for more information.

Riders With Previous Experience

Your instructor will recommend the most suitable lesson level to help you continue progressing safely and confidently.

Spectator Information

Family and friends are welcome to watch lessons.

Please note:

• No umbrellas around horses or ponies
• Children must be supervised at all times
• Dogs must remain on a lead
• Please follow any instructions given by staff

Umbrellas can startle horses and ponies and should not be used around riding areas.

Discover how riders progress through Rider Badges, BHS Pony Stars, BHS Challenge Awards, Loan Programmes, competitions, horse ownership, and more.

No. Helmets can be hired and we have a small selection of boots available.

Lessons will continue in wet weather. Lessons will only be affected in extreme weather - Hot, cold, windy, stormy. You will be contacted prior to your lesson if we need to reschedule your lesson.

Please wear suitable waterproof clothing.

Umbrellas should not be used around horses and ponies.

Absolutely. Many of our riders start with little or no experience.

Riders need to be 4 years old to join our lessons and 6 years old to join our holiday activities.

Yes, we have a picnic area and covered viewing area by the Arena.

Please arrive 10- 15 mins prior to your lesson if you need a hat fitted. If you do not need a hat you can arrive 5 mins prior to your lesson starting and head straight to the Arena. if you are intermediate rider you may help to bring the ponies/ horses from the stable to the Arena.

That's completely normal. Our instructors are experienced in helping new riders build confidence and enjoy their time with the horses.