Ebborlands Farm & Riding Centre

Advantages: Good instructors; lovely horses and very patient instructors
Disadvantages: Can be pricey if you have private lessons, but other than that there are none.

...I too am an older rider at Callum Park and I would say to anyone who is thinking of taking up horse riding - then this is the place to come if you live within travelling distance. Yes it is a bit expensive, but all decent riding schools are nowadays. Whether you want to just learn the basics, or develop skills in jumping and dressage, there are instructors and horses to suit your requirements. I regularly join the hacks in the summer months and I also take part in the group jumping lessons, both of which I enjoy. I have also learned a lot and my basic riding skills have really improved. I would urge anyone to give it a go. As long as you have the correct riding wear, then the only expense is the weekly lesson (and if you join in group lessons then the cost is very reasonable). Go on, have a go, you won't regret it.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: cheap, beautiful countryside
Disadvantages: groups are too large (although I did go on Bank holiday)

...but if you are interested visit the website ‘trail rides’ page: http://www.cantref.com/trail.htm or call 01874 665 223. In the summer adults can also take 2 day weekend or midweek holidays at Cantref, returning to the centre every night, staying, for between £80 and £89 per person including 2 nights bed and breakfast accommodation, packed lunch and 2 full days riding. There is a café on the farm and self catering facilities in the bunk house. Or if you have a long way to travel back, you could do a 1 ½ day break for £10 less. I think this is an absolute bargain and might give it a go sometime, hopefully in a smaller group though! These breaks are not available during bank holidays and school holidays. As a random trivia fact, Cantref are one of the only riding centres in Britain to offer Gold, Silver and Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: well maintained, good facilities, hacking in Trent Park, easy to get to
Disadvantages: busy, disorganised, expensive

...***Facilities*** Trent Park Equestrian Centre (TPEC) is close to Oakwood Station (Piccadilly Line) and also has plenty of parking. They have a large selection of horses (over 100) so can cater for various abilities and the horses themselves seem fairly happy. The yard is always being cleaned and the three schooling areas (two of which are under cover) are well maintained. There's a small cafe and other clients seem friendly. Generally, the instructors that I have been placed with have been friendly, enthusiastic and attentive. ***Riding Wear*** You can rent boots, crops and hats from TPEC for your lesson. They also sell a limited range of riding wear. The kit can be expensive, so I would advise you to perservere with renting if you are new to riding, untill you are sure you want to continue. ***Time keeping*** The centre has... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful