Looking for quality horse riding lessons in Essex? We’ve rounded up the top local riding schools (all licensed or BHS-approved) to help riders of every age and experience. Each centre below is reviewed for its atmosphere, training programs, and facilities.
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Chelmsford Equestrian Centre – Chelmsford (CM2 8RL)
Chelmsford Equestrian Centre is a BHS, ABRS and RDA approved school and livery yard. It welcomes beginners through advanced riders and even offers specialized RDA (therapeutic) programs. Instructors are highly qualified and guide students "from absolute novice rider through to a confident horse owner." The vibe is friendly and community-focused, with structured lesson plans and even courses on riding safety and stable management.
Prices:
- Tiny Tots (20-min pony ride) - £23.30
- 45-min Group Lesson (junior) - £37.85
- 1-hr Group Lesson (junior/adult) - £40.20
Why Go:
- Certified BHS/ABRS accredited school ensures professional coaching
- Programs for all ages and disciplines, including therapeutic riding
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas, floodlit and all-weather
- Jumping paddocks, full livery yard, tack rooms, lounge
Price Disclaimer: Prices may change. Check with the centre directly.
Fletchers Farm Riding School – Fordham (CO6 3NT)
Family-run and approved by BHS and ABRS, Fletchers Farm offers a welcoming space for riders aged 5 and up. With horses between 12.1–16.1hh, they tailor lessons to rider size and level. Their Pony Club, BHS Challenge Awards, and private off-road trails make it a great pick for serious learners and casual hobbyists alike.
Prices:
- 1-hr Group Lesson - £36.00
- 30-min Private Lesson - £44.00
- 30-min Lead-Rein Hack - £35.00
Why Go:
- BHS/ABRS 5-star rated with wide lesson and camp programs
- Unique access to 7km of off-road hacking
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor sand arenas
- On-site livery yard, tack areas
- Private farm trails
Price Disclaimer: Contact directly for updated prices or seasonal programs.
High Beech Riding School – Waltham Abbey (EN9 3QL)
Located inside Epping Forest, High Beech Riding School offers lessons and forest hacks for all levels. They offer pub rides, dawn rides, and family-oriented lessons in a supportive setting. It’s a standout for leisure riding and forest trekking.
Prices:
- Private Lesson (1 hr) - £68.00
- Group Lesson (1 hr) - £43.00
- Forest Hack (1 hr) - £43.00
Why Go:
- Ride in Epping Forest with direct access to bridleways
- Friendly staff and novelty rides like pub/dawn hacks
Facilities:
- Indoor school, outdoor space, kitchenette
- On-site parking, toilets, forest track access
Price Disclaimer: Confirm current hack and lesson fees with the school.
Monty’s Equestrian Centre – Clacton-on-Sea (CO15 6EW)
A fun, relaxed school near the seaside with licensed ABRS instructors and access to beach rides. Monty’s is perfect for beginners and offers creative programs like trick riding and pony camps.
Prices:
- Beach Hack (1–2 hrs) - £100.00
- Countryside Hack (1 hr) - £50.00
- Pony Club (2.5 hrs) - £30.00
Why Go:
- Direct access to Clacton beach and bridleways
- Casual, inclusive atmosphere for all ages
Facilities:
- Outdoor arena, beach and countryside trails
- Small clubhouse, parking, stables
Price Disclaimer: Call ahead for bookings and current prices.
Belfairs Riding School – Leigh-on-Sea (SS9 4LR)
Set inside Belfairs Park, this 5-star council-licensed school teaches children and adults on woodland trails. Known for its support of disabled riders via RDA, Belfairs blends structured learning with relaxing forest rides.
Prices:
- Child Lesson (30 min) - £20.00
- Private Ride (1 hr) - £50.00
- Pony Ride (15 min) - £2.00
Why Go:
- All lessons are taught on natural forest paths
- Inclusive riding environment with RDA support
Facilities:
- Forest-based outdoor riding (no arena)
- Stabling, grazing, public park access
Price Disclaimer: Check schedules and pony-ride days with the office.
Longmead Riding Centre – Manningtree (CO11 1NN)
Longmead is a private, quiet yard that specialises in small lessons and rider confidence. Lessons are often 1-to-1 or semi-private, with a low-pressure, relaxed vibe ideal for first-time riders or returning adults.
Prices:
- 30-min Private Lesson - contact for pricing
Why Go:
- One-on-one tuition and inclusive ethos
- Great for anxious or nervous riders
Facilities:
- Outdoor sand arenas
- Turnout, stabling, quiet rural setting
Price Disclaimer: Lesson pricing varies; call Longmead directly.
Chigwell Riding Trust – Chigwell (IG7 6FB)
Founded in 1959, Chigwell was the UK’s first therapeutic riding centre. They now welcome both disabled and able-bodied riders and are known for their highly trained instructors and trusted horses.
Prices:
- Contact the Trust for current subsidised session rates
Why Go:
- 60+ years of experience in special needs and therapeutic riding
- Charity-funded community feel
Facilities:
- Indoor and outdoor arenas, therapy harnesses
- Stables, volunteer centre, wheelchair access
Price Disclaimer: Fees vary by session type; check directly with CRT.
FAQ: Horse Riding in Essex
What age can children start riding?
Typically 4–5 years old for lead rein or pony rides. Some centres allow younger kids for walk-led sessions.
What are rider weight limits?
Most Essex schools limit weight to around 12–13 stone (76–83 kg). Some have heavier horses that can accommodate slightly more, but it’s best to ask before booking.
What should I wear?
Long trousers (leggings, jodhpurs) and boots with a small heel are standard. Most centres provide helmets and recommend gloves.
How do I choose the right school?
Look for BHS/ABRS approval, licensed operation, good reviews, and a suitable environment for your level. Visit if possible to see horses and staff in action.
Is riding safe for beginners?
Yes, licensed centres follow strict safety policies, provide helmets, and pair riders with calm horses. Beginner sessions are usually gentle and instructor-led.
