Horse riding in Oxfordshire offers the perfect blend of top-notch instruction and beautiful countryside hacking. From the rolling Chiltern Hills to the Thames Valley and Cotswolds fringes, this county boasts British Horse Society (BHS) approved centres known for high standards of horse care and coaching. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced rider, Oxfordshire’s riding schools provide safe, inclusive, and professional environments for all ages. Below we highlight eight of the best equestrian schools in the area, each with its unique vibe, facilities, and lesson options.
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Checkendon Equestrian Centre – RG8 (Checkendon)
A renowned riding school highly commended by the BHS, offering a friendly yet professional atmosphere. Established over 30 years ago, Checkendon caters to all levels – from tiny tots to competitive riders – with a passion for helping clients succeed. Set amid 80 acres of Chiltern parkland, it’s ideal for riders who love nature and even offers unique activities like horseback archery.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (45 min) – £67 for Level 2-3 Coach | £70 for Level 4+ Coach.
- Group Lesson (1 hour) – £50 per rider
- Hack (1 hour) – £55 (£70 private)
Why Go:
- BHS "Highly Commended" Centre with a wide range of horses/ponies and instructors.
- Offers horseback archery, show jumping, dressage competitions, and woodland trails.
Facilities:
- Two indoor arenas, three floodlit outdoor schools with full showjump sets.
- Cross-country course, on-site accommodation, and full livery services.
Waterstock Dressage & Riding School – OX33 (Wheatley)
An elite riding school with a dressage focus, set near Oxford. Waterstock provides 5-star rated instruction for children and adults, from beginner basics to advanced dressage. Run by an international dressage competitor, it offers first-class facilities in a quiet rural setting. Ideal for riders seeking top-notch tuition or structured Pony Club training.
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.
Pigeon House Equestrian – OX29 (Church Hanborough)
A small, friendly BHS-approved riding school and livery yard between Oxford and Witney. Known for its warm welcome and calm vibe, it’s great for beginners or rusty returners. They offer lessons for all levels and access to the 3,000-acre Eynsham Park estate for hacking.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (45 min) – £55
- Group Lesson (45 min) – £38 per person
- Hack (1 hour) – £65 per person (+£12 estate permit)
Why Go:
- Inclusive teaching and calm, confidence-building environment.
- Pony Club Centre and scenic hacking through private parkland.
Facilities:
- Floodlit all-weather arena, summer showjumping paddocks.
- 40+ acres, access to bridleways, livery services, and pony camps.
Huntersfield Equestrian Centre – SN7 (Challow)
A 5-star licensed riding school between Faringdon and Wantage. Family-run and known for its warm, professional approach under BHS-accredited instructor Sam van den Berg. Ideal for both children and adults looking for structured learning in a fun environment.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (30 min) – ~£70 (weekday) | ~£80 (weedend)
- Group Lesson (30-45 min) – ~£40
- Pony Camp (full day) – Contact for rates
Why Go:
- Expert instruction from an internationally experienced coach.
- Pony Camps, games, rallies, and small snack bar for families.
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas, pony club centre.
- Café area, full livery, and local hacking in the Vale of White Horse.
Asti Equestrian – SN7 (Goosey)
Asti Equestrian is a family-run riding centre on 170 acres in the Vale of White Horse. It combines a riding school, Pony Club centre, and tack shop in one hub. The centre supports all levels with a supportive, educational style.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (45 min) – £51.00
- Group Lesson (45 min) – £38.00 per person
Why Go:
- Pony Club, share-a-pony, helper schemes, and camps.
- On-site tack shop and master saddler available.
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas, 170 acres of pasture.
- Clinics, livery, arena hire, and large pony yard.
Turpins Lodge Riding School – OX15 (Hook Norton)
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.
Wendlebury Gate Stables – OX25 (Bicester)
A BHS-approved stable specializing in private coaching in a quiet countryside location. Great for adults or older kids who want one-on-one attention. Also runs holiday pony care days.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (45 min) – Contact for pricing
- Pony Care Day – Enquire for rates
Why Go:
- Calm, distraction-free yard ideal for focus and progression.
- Pony care sessions mix riding and horsemanship.
Facilities:
- Outdoor arena, jumps, saddlery advice on-site.
- Livery, tack shop partnership, quiet village atmosphere.
Blewbury Riding Centre – OX11 (Blewbury)
A well-established centre near Didcot with two indoor arenas, great for year-round riding. Offers lessons and hacks through Ridgeway trails, cross-country schooling, and kids’ sessions.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (1 hour) – Contact for pricing
- Group Lesson (1 hour) – Contact for pricing
- Hack (1 hour) – Contact for pricing
Why Go:
- Indoor riding facilities and accredited BHS instruction.
- Beautiful hacking routes through the Downs.
Facilities:
- Two indoor schools, cross-country course, outdoor arena.
- Livery, feed/tack shop, horse sales, shows and clinics.
Price Disclaimer
Prices are current as of late 2025 and are subject to change. Contact individual centres for the latest rates, availability, and special offers (e.g. bulk lessons or off-peak discounts).
FAQ: Horse Riding in Oxfordshire
1. What do lessons cost in Oxfordshire?
Private lessons range from £45–£80; group lessons from £30–£55. Hacks generally cost £50–£65 per hour.
2. Can adults and beginners learn to ride here?
Yes. Most centres cater to complete beginners and adults returning after a break. Many offer slow-paced or one-on-one sessions to build confidence.
3. Is hacking available at these schools?
Yes. Schools like Turpins Lodge, Pigeon House, and Blewbury offer countryside hacks and estate rides. Some schools have private trail loops.
4. Can I take BHS exams at these centres?
Some centres, like Checkendon and Waterstock, offer BHS exam preparation. Others, like Asti, are Pony Club Centres that support progressive training.
5. What do I need to wear?
Wear long pants and shoes with a small heel. Schools provide helmets and often lend boots. Weather-appropriate layers are ideal.
6. Is there a weight limit?
Most centres have a weight limit (usually around 14st/89kg). Contact the centre in advance to confirm suitability.
