Whether you're looking for forest hacks through the New Forest or expert dressage coaching in professional arenas, Hampshire offers some of the UK’s most scenic and well-equipped riding centres. From family-friendly farms to world-class training hubs, each school on this list is BHS-approved, clearly priced, and ready to welcome riders of all levels.
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Ampfield Riding Stables – Romsey (SO51)
Ampfield is a small and friendly school with a huge reputation. Run by a passionate teaching duo, it’s ideal for focused lessons, rider progression and a safe, personalised approach.
Prices:
- Group lesson (45 min) – £38
- Private flatwork (30 min) – £55
- Private jumping (30 min) – £60
Why Go:
- Small class sizes and expert coaching for all ages
- Range of fun events and confidence-building courses
Facilities:
- Floodlit outdoor arena and purpose-built lunge pen
- Stabling and direct hacking routes plus a viewing shelter for parents
Arniss Equestrian – Fordingbridge (SP6)
A 5★-rated riding school set in the heart of the New Forest, Arniss Equestrian offers inclusive, structured lessons and scenic hacks for riders aged 4 and up. Their focus on safety, progression and a warm welcome makes it a local favourite.
Prices:
- Private lesson (30 min) – £60
- Group lesson (1 hr) – £46
- New Forest hack (1 hr) – £60
Why Go:
- Direct access to New Forest trails – no roadwork required
- Offers BHS Challenge Awards, Pony Club and Changing Lives Through Horses
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas with jumps and floodlighting
- 50-acre site with cross-country field, livery yard and 20 well-schooled horses
Burley Villa School of Riding – New Milton (BH25)
Burley Villa offers something unique – in addition to traditional English lessons, it’s one of the few UK centres where you can learn Western riding. It's a great spot for kids, families and anyone wanting a fun countryside hack.
Prices:
- Group lesson (45 min) – £44
- Private lesson (30 min) – £44
- Western forest trail (2 hrs) – inquire for confirmation.
Why Go:
- Offers Western riding lessons led by a UK Western champion
- Special programs for kids including Pony Club, themed trails and pony grooming
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor schools for all-weather riding
- Easy access to the New Forest plus full/DIY livery and dedicated hacking paddocks
Fort Widley Equestrian Centre – Portsmouth (PO6)
Set within a historic Victorian fort, Fort Widley combines inclusive instruction with a one-of-a-kind location. It’s known for accessible lessons for ages 5–85, and even has its own mechanical horse for practice.
Prices:
- Private lesson (30 min) – £36.50 (adult) / £31.50 (under 18)
- Group lesson (1 hr) – £35.00 (adult) / £30.50 (under 18)
- Semi-private (30 min) – £35.00 (adult) / £30.50 (under 18)
Why Go:
- Inclusive options: RDA programs, Pony Club, Tiny Tots
- Unique learning extras like a mechanical horse simulator
Facilities:
- Two indoor schools and outdoor arena within historic fort grounds
- Stabling and riding paths with panoramic views of the Solent
Quob Stables Equestrian Centre – Durley (SO32)
Quob Stables is a large, lively BHS and ABRS-accredited centre with a busy program of lessons, camps and clinics. It's great for riders who want variety and access to quality instruction and competition-standard facilities.
Prices:
- Group lesson (1 hr) – ~£40
- Private lesson (45 min) – ~£60
- Dressage simulator + ridden combo (1 hr) – inquire for confirmation.
Why Go:
- Everything from beginner lessons to BHS exam training
- One of the most advanced centres in Hampshire
Facilities:
- Huge indoor arena with seating for 300 and a café viewing gallery
- Outdoor arenas, XC course, tack shop, hydrotherapy spa, and riding simulator
Pinkmead Farm Equestrian Centre – Botley (SO30)
A well-established school with a great reputation for coaching and structured progress. Pinkmead caters to all ages and skill levels, offering everything from relaxed hacks to showjumping development.
Prices:
- Group lesson – inquire for confirmation.
- Private lesson (30 min) – inquire for confirmation.
- Semi-private (30 min) – inquire for confirmation.
Why Go:
- Structured rider progression and British Dressage training pathway
- Family-friendly Pony Club activities and scenic hacking options
Facilities:
- Indoor mirrored school, Olympic-sized outdoor arena, jump paddock
- 96 acres of private trails and a riverside hacking route
Russells Equestrian Centre – West End (SO30)
A family-run BHS and ABRS+ centre focused on ethical horsemanship and holistic learning. Russells welcomes everyone, including riders with additional needs, and offers groundwork, clinics, and stable management lessons.
Prices:
- Group lesson – £37 (adult) / £28 (child)
- Intro pack (3x 30 min privates) – £90
- Pony Day (6 hours) – inquire for confirmation.
Why Go:
- Great variety: riding, polo, stable skills
- Inclusive, family-first approach
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas
- Cross-country course and woodland hacking
Wellington Riding – Hook (RG27)
One of the UK's leading training centres, Wellington Riding combines luxury facilities with top-tier coaching. It’s open to all levels but especially ideal for those with ambitions in dressage or showjumping.
Prices:
- Adult group/private lesson – ~£92
- Junior lesson – ~£68
- Semi-private (45 min) – ~£103
Why Go:
- World-class venue for serious riders and competitive coaching
- Huge array of courses, clinics, Pony Club, and adult riding camps
Facilities:
- Olympic-sized indoor arena, outdoor rings, XC course, riding simulator
- On-site livery, café, accommodation, tack shop, and hydrotherapy spa
Price Disclaimer
Prices accurate as of publication. Please confirm current rates directly with the riding school.
FAQ: Horse Riding in Hampshire
1. How much are riding lessons in Hampshire?
Expect to pay £30–£60 for a standard group or private lesson. Premium centres may charge more for advanced coaching.
2. Do I need to be experienced to ride here?
Nope – every school listed here welcomes total beginners and will guide you step-by-step.
3. Are children welcome at these riding schools?
Yes, all schools listed accept children from age 4 or 5+, and many offer Pony Club, camps and holiday activities.
4. Can I go hacking in Hampshire?
Absolutely – the New Forest and Hampshire countryside are full of off-road riding paths, many directly accessible from these centres.
5. Do the schools lend safety gear?
Most will provide helmets and sometimes boots for beginners. Always check before arriving.
