Best Riding Schools in Kent, South East England

Kent offers some of the best horse riding experiences in the UK. We've pulled together 8 highly-rated, BHS-approved riding schools across Kent that offer clear pricing, experienced instruction, and top facilities.

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• Mayfield Stables – Tatsfield (TN16)

• Whiteleaf Riding Stables – Teynham (ME9)

• Wellgrove Farm Stables – Pembury (Tunbridge Wells)

• Mount Mascal Stables – Bexley (DA5)

• Squirrell’s Riding School – Blue Bell Hill (ME5)

• Owl House Stables – Dover (CT15)

• Cornilo Riding – Sutton (Dover District)

• Trenley Park Riding School – Fordwich (Canterbury)

Mayfield Stables – Tatsfield (TN16)

A family-run school set on the Kent–Surrey border, Mayfield offers a relaxed, supportive space for learning. Lessons are small and personal — perfect for beginners building confidence or riders returning to the saddle. With gentle hacks and a calm atmosphere, it's ideal for all ages.

Prices:

• Group lesson (30 min) – £32.00
• Private lesson – from £55.00
• Hacking (30 min) – £35.00

Why Go:

• BHS Highly Commended with a focus on small group learning
• Friendly instructors who specialise in nervous or new riders

Facilities:

• Outdoor arena
• Off-road hacking loops from the yard

Whiteleaf Riding Stables – Teynham (ME9)

Located in the Swale countryside, Whiteleaf is a welcoming centre with a strong family focus. It's a hit with children and adults alike, offering riding sessions, Pony Club, and lead-rein hacks. Instructors are known for their patience and encouragement.

Prices:

• Group lesson (30 min) – £27.50
• Private lesson (30 min) – £44.00
• Hack (30 min) – £27.50

Why Go:

• Pony Club programs and fun extras like pony parties
• Inclusive lessons suitable for a range of needs

Facilities:

• Two outdoor arenas (one for jumping)
• Pony Club centre with camps and own-a-pony days

Wellgrove Farm Stables – Pembury

Set on a quiet farm just outside Tunbridge Wells, Wellgrove is popular with families and young riders. The school is praised for its steady ponies and encouraging instructors, with extra support for beginners and developing dressage riders.

Prices:

• Group lesson – from £30
• Lead-rein hack (1.5 hr) – £52.50
• Countryside hack (1.5 hrs) – £52.50

Why Go:

• Gentle, beginner-friendly ponies
• Great progression for teens into dressage

Facilities:

• Bridlepaths and private woodland for hacking
• Holiday pony camps and stable management lessons

Mount Mascal Stables – Bexley (DA5)

One of the largest equestrian centres near the Kent border, Mount Mascal runs lessons 7 days a week. It caters to all levels — from tiny-tot beginners to adult improvers — with structured lesson pathways and woodland hacks.

Prices:

• Private lesson (30 min) – £40
• Group beginner session (45 min) – £32.50
• Private hack (45 min) – £55

Why Go:

• Fully inclusive for all ages and skill levels
• Excellent value and accredited instructors

Facilities:

• Covered indoor arenas and multiple outdoor schools
• Clubroom café and direct access to Joyden’s Wood for hacking

Squirrell’s Riding School – Blue Bell Hill (ME5)

A warm, family-run riding school perched on Blue Bell Hill. Squirrell’s offers a great blend of fun and structure — from relaxed lessons to competitive outings and Pony Club teams. Plus, there's an on-site tea room!

Prices:

• Group lesson – £27.50
• Private lesson – £44.00
• Escorted hack (30 min) – £27.50

Why Go:

• Active Pony Club and school teams
• Supportive teaching with room to grow into competitions

Facilities:

• Indoor and outdoor arenas
• Tea room and woodland hacking nearby

Owl House Stables – Dover (CT15)

A family-run riding school in north Oxfordshire with a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere. Offers private and group lessons, scenic hacks, and holiday packages for all ages.

Prices:

• Group Lesson (45 min) – ~£64
• Private Lesson (30 min) – ~£71
• Hack (1 hour group) – £62.40
  
  

Why Go:

• Scenic Cotswolds hacking and holiday ride options.
• Patient instructors, pony parties, and beginner-friendly instruction.
  
  

Facilities:

• Indoor and outdoor arenas, Cotswold trail access.
• On-site accommodation, pony club activities, livery.

Cornilo Riding – Sutton (Dover District)

A charming countryside yard offering everything from dressage to polo — and always with a friendly welcome. Cornilo is known for being brilliant with kids and for its well-run “Pony for a Day” holiday camps.

Prices:

• Group lesson – £37 (adult) / £28 (child)
• Intro pack (3x 30 min privates) – £90
• Pony Day (6 hours) – £55

Why Go:

• Great variety: riding, polo, stable skills
• Inclusive, family-first approach

Facilities:

• Indoor and outdoor arenas
• Cross-country course and woodland hacking

Trenley Park Riding School – Fordwich (Canterbury)

Just outside Canterbury, Trenley Park offers flexible lesson formats and a strong BHS training pathway. It’s ideal for beginners who want to improve — and for anyone working toward riding qualifications in a friendly environment.

Prices:

• Private lesson (30 min) – £35
• Semi-private (45 min) – £35 each
• Group lesson (45 min) – £25

Why Go:

• On-site BHS exam training and experienced instructors
• Small, friendly mixed yard with a community vibe

Facilities:

• Large schooling arenas and show jump setup
• Farm-based hacking near Stodmarsh nature reserve

Price Disclaimer

Prices accurate as of publication. Please confirm with the riding school directly before booking.

FAQ: Horse Riding in Kent

1. How much do horse riding lessons cost in Kent?

Prices typically range from £25 to £45 for group or private lessons. Some schools offer packages for beginners or discounts for children.

2. Do I need experience to start horse riding?

No experience needed! Most schools listed above offer lessons for total beginners and will match you with the right pony or horse.

3. Are these riding schools suitable for children?

Yes — every centre here welcomes children and many offer Pony Club sessions, pony days, or birthday rides.

4. Can I go hacking in Kent?

Yes — several centres like Mount Mascal, Cornilo and Owl House offer off-road hacking options.

5. Are helmets and boots provided?

Most schools lend helmets and safety equipment for beginners, though it’s best to check in advance or bring your own if riding regularly.