West Sussex is a dream location for horse lovers, with rolling countryside, the South Downs National Park, and a wide variety of excellent riding schools. Whether you're a total beginner, a parent looking for weekend pony rides, or a seasoned rider training for BHS exams, there's something here for everyone. This guide explores 8 of the best BHS-approved riding schools in the county, each with public pricing, great reviews, and its own standout atmosphere.
Navigation
Lavant Equestrian – Chichester
Lavant Equestrian is a friendly, professional centre just outside Chichester. Known for its top-tier coaching and nearly perfect safety record, this BHS-approved centre caters to riders of all levels, from complete beginners to those aiming for competitive goals. Riders love its warm, inclusive vibe and strong focus on rider progression.
Prices:
- Introductory Ride (1 hour / 45 mins riding) – £85
- Group Membership Lessons – from £215/month (children) or £259/month (adults)
- Private 45-min Lessons – from £364/month (weekday package)
Why Go:
- Excellent rider progression in a supportive setting
- Beautiful location with access to off-road farm tracks and South Downs
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas with all-weather surfaces
- Farm hacking trails and South Downs access (members only)
- Clubhouse, tack room, and livery services
Arundel Riding Centre – Arundel
Set in the countryside near historic Arundel, this family-run riding school welcomes riders of all ages and levels. With a large team of horses and small group sizes, Arundel offers quality lessons with lots of individual attention. It's perfect for children, families, and adults getting back into the saddle.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (per week) – from £40 (children), £43–£50 (adults)
- Private 30-min Lesson – £45 (child), £50 (adult)
- 1-hour Hack (private) – £80 / (semi-private) – £60
Why Go:
- Small class sizes ensure focused, friendly instruction
- Pony parties and stable management activities available
Facilities:
- Indoor 20x40m arena with viewing gallery
- Outdoor arena, cross-country schooling, and nearby bridleways
- On-site parking and family-friendly environment
Ferring Country Centre – Ferring
This BHS-approved charitable riding centre offers inclusive, well-run lessons just outside Worthing. It welcomes children and adults of all abilities, including those with additional needs, and is especially known for its guided hacks and beach rides.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (1 hour) – £42
- Private or Assessment Session (30 mins) – £42
- Guided Hack or Beach Ride (1.5 hours) – £42–£65
Why Go:
- Inclusive ethos with highly trained staff
- Great for therapeutic riding and first-time riders
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas
- On-site nature trail, hacking to local village and beach
- Clubhouse, café and accessible restrooms on site
Lancing Equestrian Centre – Lancing
Based at Hoe Court Farm near Lancing College, this BHS-approved centre offers a high-quality equestrian program open to the public. Riders benefit from well-schooled horses, an indoor arena, and direct access to South Downs bridleways.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (30–60 min) – from £40–£49
- Private Lesson (30 min) – from £60
- Hack (group) – from £59
Why Go:
- Professional instructors and exam-focused coaching
- Access to showjumping, dressage and horseball clinics
Facilities:
- Indoor arena, outdoor schools, cross-country field
- Trail access into South Downs
- Tack shop, clubhouse, and livery
Bridge House Equestrian Centre – Slinfold
Bridge House is a well-equipped centre near Horsham with a strong reputation for both leisure and competitive training. It offers a wide range of lessons and is home to the South Downs RDA group.
Prices:
- Private, semi-private, and group lessons – contact for up-to-date rates
- Hacks arranged based on rider level and availability
Why Go:
- Showjumping and dressage facilities on site
- Friendly team with options for Pony Club and RDA
Facilities:
- Indoor dressage arena, outdoor jumping school
- Tack shop, viewing areas, tea room
- Livery stables and secure hacking fields
Happy Valley Equestrian Centre – Shoreham-by-Sea
Tucked at the foot of the South Downs, this ABRS-approved centre offers BHS-level instruction in a fun, welcoming environment. Happy Valley focuses on small group sessions and is a favorite for children just starting out.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (30–60 mins) – £30 (beginner), £36 (intermediate)
- Private Lesson (30 mins) – £45
- Hack (1 hour group / 2 hour group) – £35 / £70
Why Go:
- Small, safe, and very beginner-friendly
- Offers scenic pub rides and pony camps
Facilities:
- Grass schooling field, small floodlit arena
- South Downs hacking trails
- Clubhouse and loan ponies for regular riders
Forest Farm Riding School – Mannings Heath
This community-focused riding school offers affordable lessons for children and adults, with a down-to-earth approach. Forest Farm blends high-quality instruction with a warm, supportive learning atmosphere.
Prices:
- Group Lesson (30–40 min) – £40–£47
- Private Lesson (45 min) – £52–£57
- Hack (1–1.5 hours) – £50–£65
Why Go:
- Great value and highly rated by parents and adult learners
- Wide range of clinics, pony days and group activities
Facilities:
- Outdoor arena with full jump course
- Local woodland and bridleway access
- Pony camp area, snack hut, and tack shop
The Stables at Cissbury – Nuthurst
Located on the scenic Cissbury Estate, this small yard specializes in hacking and relaxed tuition. It's ideal for riders who want to explore nature on horseback, with a peaceful vibe and miles of off-road trails.
Prices:
- Lessons and hacks – available on request (booked by enquiry)
- Group and private hacks arranged weekly
Why Go:
- Quiet, personalised approach with small group sizes
- Exceptional countryside rides in the South Downs
Facilities:
- Large outdoor school and open fields
- Trail access to Cissbury Ring and beyond
- Rustic stable yard, lounge area, and parking
Price Disclaimer
Prices are correct as of 2024 and subject to change. Always confirm with the riding school before booking.
FAQ for Horse riding in West Sussex
What’s the average cost of a riding lesson in West Sussex?
Group lessons typically range from £30 to £50 for 30–60 minutes. Private lessons start from £45 and go up to £65+, depending on the centre.
Do these schools cater to beginners?
Yes. All schools listed above welcome beginners, including children aged 4+, adult returners, and nervous riders. Many offer intro sessions and pony mornings.
Can I go hacking in the countryside?
Most of these schools offer guided hacks. Some (like Ferring and Cissbury) even provide beach rides or pub rides in the South Downs.
Do any of these centres prep for BHS exams?
Yes. Lavant, Lancing, and Forest Farm in particular offer exam-focused coaching and stable management training.
What should I wear to ride?
Wear long trousers and boots with a heel. Riding hats are often available for hire (£1–2). Gloves and body protectors are also recommended, especially for jumping.
