Wear comfortable trousers without thick inner seams (jodhpurs or leggings work well) and sturdy footwear with a small heel. Avoid trainers with deep treads, as they can get caught in stirrups. A fitted top and layers are recommended, as you'll warm up during the session.

We provide safety helmets that meet current British standards for all riders. If you continue with regular lessons, we can advise on purchasing your own riding boots and helmet. Gloves are optional but helpful for better grip on the reins.

We welcome riders from age 6 upwards, with no upper age limit. Children aged 6-8 typically start with lead-rein lessons, where an instructor controls the pony while teaching basic position and balance. Older children and teenagers join group lessons matched to their ability level.

Adult beginners represent a significant portion of our students. Many people discover riding later in life and progress excellently. We offer adult-only sessions for those who prefer learning alongside peers of similar age and experience.

Standard group lessons run for 60 minutes, which includes time for mounting, instruction, and dismounting. Private lessons are available in 30-minute or 60-minute sessions. For beginners, we recommend 60-minute lessons to allow sufficient time for learning without rushing.

The actual riding time varies slightly depending on the lesson type and activities planned. We also offer extended 90-minute sessions for more advanced riders working on specific skills or preparing for competitions.

You're welcome to book individual lessons on a pay-as-you-go basis. This flexibility works well for people with unpredictable schedules or those wanting to try riding before committing further. However, regular weekly lessons help build skills more effectively through consistent practice.

We offer block bookings of 4, 8, or 12 lessons at reduced rates for those ready to commit to regular instruction. Block bookings also guarantee your preferred time slot each week, which can be valuable during our busier periods.

We require 24 hours notice for cancellations. If you cancel with sufficient notice, you can reschedule your lesson or receive a credit toward future sessions. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will be charged at full price, as we cannot fill the slot at short notice.

We understand that emergencies happen. In cases of illness or genuine emergency, we'll work with you to find a fair solution. Weather-related cancellations are made at our discretion based on safety conditions, and affected students receive full credit or refunds.

Both options are available. Group lessons typically contain 4-6 riders of similar ability and provide good value while offering social interaction. Many riders enjoy the group dynamic and find it motivating to learn alongside others.

Private lessons offer focused one-on-one instruction tailored to your specific goals and progress at your own pace. They're particularly beneficial for nervous beginners, riders working on specific skills, or those preparing for assessments. Semi-private lessons for two riders are also available.

Safety is our absolute priority. All riders wear approved helmets, and beginners start on calm, experienced horses in controlled environments. Our instructors are qualified professionals who teach proper safety procedures from day one, including how to mount, dismount, and handle horses correctly.

While riding carries inherent risks like any sport, proper instruction and appropriate horse matching minimize these significantly. We maintain comprehensive insurance and follow British Horse Society safety guidelines. Our horses are selected for their temperament and suitability for teaching.

Our centre includes a 40m x 20m indoor arena with mirrors and quality surface, allowing lessons to continue regardless of weather. We also have an outdoor arena for summer sessions and access to marked bridleway routes for more experienced riders ready to venture beyond the school.

Additional facilities include heated changing rooms, toilets, a viewing area for parents and visitors, and a tack room with all necessary equipment. Secure parking is available on site, and we're easily accessible from central London via public transport.

All our instructors hold British Horse Society qualifications ranging from Stage 3 Coach to BHSII level. Several team members have additional specializations in teaching children, nervous riders, or specific disciplines. Every instructor maintains current first aid certification and undergoes regular professional development.

Our head instructor has over 15 years of teaching experience and competed successfully at county level. We believe qualified, experienced instruction makes a significant difference to both safety and the speed at which students develop competence and confidence.

Our indoor arena means lessons proceed in nearly all weather conditions. Rain, wind, and cold temperatures don't affect indoor sessions. We only cancel in extreme circumstances such as severe storms, heavy snow affecting travel safety, or dangerous winds that could compromise the building structure.

If we need to cancel due to weather, you'll receive notification as early as possible via phone and email. You can then reschedule your lesson or receive a full credit. We monitor weather forecasts closely and make decisions based on safety rather than convenience.

While we try to provide consistency where beneficial, riding different horses actually helps develop better skills. Each horse has unique characteristics, and learning to adapt to different temperaments and gaits makes you a more versatile, competent rider. This variety prepares you better for future riding opportunities.

For very nervous beginners, we may keep you on the same calm horse for the first few lessons to build confidence. As you progress, you'll be matched with horses appropriate to your developing skills. Regular riders often develop preferences, and we accommodate these when possible.

Progress varies significantly between individuals based on natural aptitude, previous athletic experience, frequency of lessons, and personal confidence levels. With weekly lessons, most beginners feel comfortable at walk and trot within 6-8 weeks. Cantering typically comes after 3-4 months of regular practice.

Consistent weekly lessons produce faster progress than sporadic monthly sessions. Physical fitness, particularly core strength and flexibility, also influences how quickly you develop an effective riding position. We track your progress and set achievable goals at each stage of development.

Our stable includes 12 horses and ponies ranging from 12.2hh to 16.2hh, carefully selected for their calm temperaments and suitability for teaching. We have quiet cobs perfect for nervous beginners, responsive warmbloods for more advanced riders, and reliable ponies for younger children.

Each horse receives regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and daily exercise. They're matched to riders based on size, weight, experience level, and confidence. All our horses are accustomed to beginners and trained to respond to basic aids, making them forgiving teachers for new riders.

Jumping instruction is available once you've developed a secure position and can maintain balance at walk, trot, and canter. Most riders are ready to begin pole work and small jumps after 6-12 months of regular flatwork lessons. We start with ground poles, then raised poles, before progressing to small cross-poles.

Safety and proper technique take priority over height. You'll learn correct jumping position, approach, and landing before attempting larger fences. We offer specialized jumping clinics for intermediate and advanced riders wanting to focus specifically on this discipline.

Group lessons are priced at £45 per hour, while private lessons cost £65 for 60 minutes or £40 for 30 minutes. Block bookings offer savings: purchase 4 lessons and receive 5% discount, 8 lessons for 10% discount, or 12 lessons for 15% discount on the total price.

We accept payment by card, bank transfer, or cash. Block bookings must be paid in full at time of purchase and are valid for 6 months from purchase date. Gift vouchers are available in any denomination and make excellent presents for aspiring riders.

Parents are welcome to watch from our viewing area, which overlooks the indoor arena. We find that some children concentrate better without parents present, while others appreciate the support. Our instructors can advise what works best for your child based on their personality and confidence level.

The viewing area has seating and heating, making it comfortable year-round. We ask that observers remain in the designated area to avoid distracting horses or riders. You're also welcome to wait in your vehicle or return at the end of the lesson.

Gift vouchers are available for any monetary amount or specific lesson packages. They're presented in an attractive folder and include information about what to expect for a first lesson. Vouchers are valid for 12 months from purchase date and can be used toward any of our services.

You can purchase vouchers by phone, email, or in person at the yard. We can post them to you or the recipient, or arrange collection. Many people give riding lessons as birthday, Christmas, or special occasion gifts, and they're suitable for all ages from children to adults.