From the Surrey Hills’ scenic hacking trails to the welcoming community yards around Kingston and Reigate, Surrey offers some of the finest riding schools in the South East. We’ve compiled these BHS-approved centres combine expert teaching with beautiful countryside settings.
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Barnfield Riding School - Kingston Upon Thames (KT2)
Barnfield is a long-running, 5-star rated riding school affiliated with the British Horse Society and Pony Club, known for its inclusive, community atmosphere. Riders of all ages and abilities are welcomed, with a holistic teaching approach that even incorporates a mechanical horse simulator to build confidence before riding live horses. With over 40 years in the community, it’s a friendly, trusted school where newcomers quickly feel at home.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (1 hour) – £60
- Private Lesson (½ hour) – £50
- Group Hack (1 hour) – £60
Why Go:
- Supportive, family-friendly environment that welcomes riders of all ages and abilities.
- Inclusive ethos with RDA sessions for riders with disabilities.
- Confidence-building mechanical horse sessions for beginners.
Facilities:
- Outdoor floodlit arena and indoor mechanical horse simulator.
- Quiet lane access for local hacks.
- Livery services and well-kept stables with a rest area for riders.
Wildwoods Riding Centre - Tadworth (KT20)
A BHS-Approved riding and training centre on the edge of Banstead Heath, Wildwoods has been teaching riders since 1976. It’s equally loved for its professional coaching (they’re a BHS exam centre) and scenic hacking across Surrey’s countryside. With lessons in English and Western riding and a high-tech dressage simulator, this centre offers both fun and serious training in a stunning setting.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (1 hour) – £55 (weekday) / £60 (weekend)
- Private Lesson (1 hour) – £95 (weekday) / £105 (weekend)
- Group Hack (1½ hours) – £75 (weekday) / £80 (weekend)
Why Go:
- BHS Training & Assessment Centre offering exam preparation and Western riding lessons.
- Exceptional off-road hacking across Banstead Heath and surrounding commons.
- Pony Club and Accessibility Mark-approved, ensuring inclusivity.
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas, plus a mechanical dressage simulator (“Trojan”).
- Direct access to 30 acres of woodland and bridleways.
- Spacious stabling, tack shop, and picnic area for long riding days.
RAAS Equestrian Centre - Reigate (RH2)
Located on the 260-acre Gatton Park estate, RAAS Equestrian is a BHS-approved riding centre focused on children and young riders. Operated by the Royal Alexandra & Albert School, it provides affordable, structured lessons and Pony Club programs, making it an ideal learning ground for beginners and aspiring competitors alike.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (45 min) – £40.50
- Private Lesson (30 min) – £42.00
- Private Lesson (45 min) – £51.75
Why Go:
- Youth-focused approach with Pony Club, BHS exams, and the “Changing Lives Through Horses” program.
- Affordable lessons with discounted termly bookings.
- Clear progression system under certified BHS instructors.
Facilities:
- Large floodlit outdoor school (40m x 50m) and 20m x 30m indoor arena.
- Two American-barn stable blocks housing ~20 ponies.
- Classroom and lecture room for stable management sessions.
St Teresa's Equestrian - Effingham (RH5)
Set on the grounds of St Teresa’s School, this BHS Highly Commended riding centre offers tailored coaching for all levels. The focus here is individual attention, with private and semi-private lessons, Pony Club activities, and BHS exam preparation. The tranquil Surrey Hills setting adds to its charm.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (30 min) – £70 adult / £60 child
- Private Lesson (45 min) – £85 adult / £75 child
- Pony Morning (3 hours) – £68
Why Go:
- Bespoke lesson plans for each rider and horse.
- BHS and Pony Club accredited centre with on-site BHS exam opportunities.
- Supportive, calm learning environment ideal for children and adults alike.
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas with top-quality footing.
- Access to 100 acres of off-road hacking trails.
- Modern yard with American barn stabling and clubhouse.
Epsom Riding School (Equus Cente) - Epsom (kT19)
Based in Horton Country Park, Epsom Riding School offers a mix of fun and serious riding opportunities – from polo and dressage lessons to relaxing park hacks. It’s one of the area’s most established schools, with one of Europe’s largest indoor arenas and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for both adults and children.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (40 min) – £40 (adult) / £30 (child)
- Private Lesson (40 min) – £60 (adult) / £50 (child)
- Park Hack (40 min) – £40 (adult group hack)
Why Go:
- Massive indoor arena allows year-round lessons in all weather.
- Located in a country park but minutes from London.
- Family-run with friendly instructors and diverse riding options, including polo.
Facilities:
- Europe’s largest indoor arena with viewing gallery.
- Outdoor sand schools, jumping field, and polo ground.
- Yard with over 20 horses, café, and tack shop.
Beechwood Riding school - Woldingham (CR3)
This BHS-approved school near Woldingham is loved for its traditional yet friendly approach to classical riding. With more than 35 years of teaching experience, Beechwood focuses on rider-horse harmony and offers both excellent instruction and incredible hacking through the North Downs.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (30 min) – £45
- Private Lesson (1 hour) – £66
- Group Lesson (1 hour, adult) – £46 (child £44)
Why Go:
- Classical equitation focus – great for improving balance and connection.
- Exceptional off-road hacking through Marden Park and surrounding trails.
- Supportive, family-run environment with experienced instructors.
Facilities:
- Indoor school and international-sized outdoor arena.
- Small ménage for lunging and lessons.
- Cozy clubhouse, show jumps, and tranquil countryside setting.
Burstow Park Riding Centre - Horley (RH6)
Burstow Park is a welcoming BHS-approved centre on the Surrey/Sussex border, known for its flexibility and family feel. From mechanical horse sessions and pony camps to hacks and clinics, there’s something for every level of rider.
Prices:
- Mechanical Horse Session (30 min) – £55
- Private Lesson (30 min, non-member) – £44
- Group Lesson (45 min, non-member) – £42
Why Go:
- Variety of activities – pony days, carriage rides, clinics, and membership discounts.
- Welcoming instructors skilled with nervous riders.
- Balance training with their mechanical horse “Onyx.”
Facilities:
- Indoor arena and two outdoor sand schools.
- Show jumps and cross-country fences across the fields.
- Livery services, small café corner, and tack shop for essentials.
Price Disclaimer
Prices are accurate as per the latest listings on each school’s website but may vary seasonally. Always confirm directly before booking.
FAQ: Horse Riding in Surrey
1. What is the average cost of a riding lesson in Surrey?
Expect to pay between £45 and £70 for private lessons, and £40–£60 for group sessions.
2. Do any schools in Surrey offer mechanical horse training?
Yes, Barnfield and Burstow Park both use simulators to help riders build confidence and correct posture.
3. Are there options for children and beginners?
Absolutely. Schools like RAAS and St Teresa’s focus on children’s programs and beginner riders.
4. Can I take BHS exams at any of these schools?
Yes, Wildwoods and St Teresa’s are approved BHS Training and Assessment Centres.