Middleton Park Equestrian Centre

Advantages: Friendly, dedicated staff. Excellent choice of horses.
Disadvantages: The price (but that is the same everywhere).

...I have been having riding lessons at Callum Park for the last two years. I am sure that I have challenged some of the instructors, as I am in my 50s and had not ridden for 30-odd years! Everyone is helpful and the instructors are willing to let you progress at your own pace (helpful when you have had a fall and lost confidence for a while). Although a bit pricey, the horses are rested for two days each week, and never work for more than four hours on any of the other days. I have found that there are still many riding establishments that are prepared to work their horses every day - you might pay a little less for your lesson, but what about the welfare of the horse? My daughter also has lessons at Callum Park and has made good progress. Hacks are available in the Summer months, and there is an indoor school and two large outdoor... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Covers everything for ages 4-94, lead rein to three day event
Disadvantages: I just wish it was closer to home (but it's still worth the travel!)

...Trent Valley Equestrian Centre is a fantastic riding school and livery/competition yard - very friendly, very professional, very welcoming. Our daughter would live there if she could even though she doesn't have her own pony! From lead rein to three day event, from age 4 to 94 this is the place to learn to ride, to improve your riding and compete at every level. TVEC view riding as a complete activity including horse care and stable management - badges, tests and assessments at every level - individual badges, Pony Club, ABRS, BHS, NVQ - you name it, they do it. Every month it seems there is a new development - something small like a new stable door or something big like the new 1800 sq m International Level Indoor Arena to complement the four floodlit ourdoor arenas. If you don't believe me, try it for yourself at one of their regular... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

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