East Sussex’s equestrian scene boasts a variety of top-notch British Horse Society (BHS) approved riding schools. From family-friendly pony yards to advanced training centers, these establishments offer something for everyone – whether you’re a complete beginner, a rusty returner, or an aspiring eventer. Below we round up eight of the best BHS-approved riding schools in the county, each with transparent pricing, great reviews, and outstanding facilities.
Each school entry includes an overview of its atmosphere and ideal clientele, a snapshot of lesson and hack prices, reasons “why go,” a rundown of facilities, and a quick price disclaimer. At the end, you’ll find a handy FAQ on horse riding in East Sussex – covering lesson costs, beginner options, BHS exam prep, hacking, and what to wear.
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Hurstwood Farm Equestrian Centre – High Hurstwood (Uckfield)
Set in the High Weald, Hurstwood is ideal for confident teens and adults looking to refine their jumping, cross-country or dressage. With private coaching, residential riding holidays, and BHS exam support, it suits riders aiming to progress in a quiet, professional setting.
Prices:
- Private lesson (1 hour) - inquire for confirmation.
- Group lesson (1 hour) - inquire for confirmation.
- Hack (1 hour) - inquire for confirmation.
Why Go:
- Excellent cross-country and BHS exam training with experienced instructors
- Option to stay for multi-day riding holidays in cottage accommodation
Facilities:
- Outdoor arenas and cross-country course
- Stabling, hacking tracks, and rider accommodation on site
Meadows Equestrian Centre – Hailsham (Near Eastbourne)
A relaxed, family-run yard welcoming all ages and levels, especially children and adult beginners. Meadows is praised for its gentle teaching, holiday pony camps, and affordable pricing.
Prices:
- Private lesson (1 hour) - £30
- Semi-private lesson (1 hour) - £25 per rider
- Group lesson (1 hour) - £20 per rider
Why Go:
- Calm, confidence-building environment perfect for nervous riders
- Pony Club activities and holiday events for young riders
Facilities:
- Floodlit outdoor arena and beginner sand school
- Livery stables, parent viewing area, and tack facilities
Ashdown Riding – Nutley (Ashdown Forest)
This long-established centre offers traditional instruction alongside varied forest hacking. Suitable for adults and children, it’s a favourite for locals and visitors wanting real countryside riding.
Prices:
- Hack (1 hour) - £40
- Private lesson (45 min) - £45
- Semi-private (45 min) - £30–£35
Why Go:
- Direct access to Ashdown Forest bridleways for scenic hacks
- Offers fun extras like side-saddle sessions and pony parties
Facilities:
- Outdoor school and small XC field
- Private trail access, stabling, and reception tack room
Pebsham Equestrian Centre – Bexhill-on-Sea (Hastings area)
Pebsham is known for inclusive riding – especially for disabled, nervous, and returning riders. RDA affiliated, it also offers standard lessons and forest/beach rides.
Prices:
- Private lesson (1 hour) - £35–£40
- Children’s lesson (30 min) - £25
- Hack (1 hour) - £45
Why Go:
- Welcoming for disabled riders and beginners needing gentle support
- Beach hacking options and active community events
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas with sea views
- Woodland hacking, beach access, and accessible mounting ramps
East View Riding Centre – Danehill (Ashdown Forest)
Perfect for riders who love outdoor trail riding, East View is all about safe, guided hacks through the Ashdown Forest. While they don’t do traditional lessons, they’re great for beginners looking for a real riding experience.
Prices:
- Hack (1 hour) - £45
- Hack (75 min) - £55
- Beginner led walk (30 min) - £32
Why Go:
- Specialises in relaxed, scenic hacks for all levels
- Long-standing family farm with personal, friendly guides
Facilities:
- Farm and forest access with 400+ acres of trails
- Simple stable yard with paddocks and helmet hire
Beauport Park Riding School – St Leonards (Hastings/Battle)
A large, well-equipped centre popular with families and young riders. Great for structured progression, pony clubs, and camps. Also caters to adults seeking consistent lessons year-round.
Prices:
- Group lesson (1 hour, child) - £30–£35
- Private lesson (1 hour) - £45–£50
- Mini hack (30 min) - £25
Why Go:
- Excellent indoor arenas and on-site hacking trails
- Popular for kids’ pony camps, parties, and first lessons
Facilities:
- Two indoor schools, outdoor arena, woodland hacking, XC course
- Clubroom, viewing gallery, tack shop
Ditchling Common Stud – Ditchling/Burgess Hill
A high-standard riding school focused on progression, exams, and competition disciplines. While open to beginners, it excels for riders aiming to develop technical skills or take BHS exams.
Prices:
- Private lesson (30 min) - £42
- Group session (1 hour) - £25–£30
- Advanced private (1 hour) - £60–£70
Why Go:
- BHS training centre with expert coaching and exam prep
- Runs Pony Club, dressage clinics, and showjumping
Facilities:
- Indoor arena, outdoor schools, XC course
- Clubhouse, lecture space, competition-standard infrastructure
Hamsey Riding School – Lewes
A small, friendly yard run by ex-jockey Ray Goldstein. Known for quick progress, straightforward lessons, and countryside hacks. It’s informal, supportive, and ideal for adult beginners and teenagers.
Prices:
- Group lesson (1 hour) - £30
- Private lesson (1 hour) - £45
- Hack (1 hour) - £35
Why Go:
- Unpretentious, goal-oriented coaching that gets results
- Great hacking routes and access to downland bridleways
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas, simple stable block
- Hacking routes, clubroom, personal attention
Price Disclaimer
Prices listed are current as of late 2025 and meant as a guide. They may vary depending on time of day, age group, instructor level, or multi-lesson bookings. Please contact individual centres for the most up-to-date rates.
FAQ for Horse riding in East Sussex
1. What do riding lessons cost?
Group lessons usually cost £25–£35 per hour; privates range from £40–£60 depending on duration and instructor level.
2. Are there beginner-friendly schools?
Yes – Meadows, Pebsham, and Hamsey are great for nervous adults and kids. Ashdown and East View also do escorted rides for novices.
3. Can I train for BHS exams?
Yes – Ditchling Common Stud and Hurstwood Farm both offer BHS exam prep. Other centres like Beauport have qualified coaches too.
4. Where can I hack?
Ashdown Riding and East View lead scenic hacks in the forest. Pebsham offers beach rides. Hamsey and Beauport have field or woodland options.
5. Do I need riding gear?
Wear long pants and heeled boots. Most schools provide helmets and may rent body protectors. Gloves and layers help too.
