Tyne & Wear blends city-centre stables with long-running family yards—ideal for beginners finding their seat, returning adults, and riders aiming for dressage or jumping progression. Below are highly rated (many BHS-approved) schools that focus on structured lessons (not hacking), publish prices online, and offer solid facilities like indoor/outdoor arenas, viewing spaces, and inclusive programs.
Firtree Farm Riding School – Forest Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne
Penshaw Equestrian Centre – Washington / Penshaw (Sunderland)
Washington Riding Centre (RDA & public lessons) – Washington (Sunderland)
East Boldon Riding Centre – NE36 0BX (South Tyneside)
A BHS-approved, family-run school with a big, well-matched horse/pony team and lesson pathways from tiny tots to exam preparation. Friendly, safety-first coaching and consistent grading make it easy to progress in flatwork or poles/jumping, year-round in covered and outdoor spaces.
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A unique city-centre, award-winning charity riding school that runs professional lessons alongside youth programs. Great for nervous starters and busy adults—book clear, level-based groups or privates, including jumping classes—plus the convenience of being in NE1
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A long-standing, BHS-approved yard (est. 1948) known for small, friendly groups and steady progression from first lessons to confident canter and jumping. Family atmosphere, clear levels, and popular pony experiences for younger riders.
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A family-run school serving the northern suburbs with calm, confidence-building instruction for kids and adults. Good for true beginners (assisted groups) through independent riders, with straightforward private options.
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One of the region’s best-equipped BHS-approved schools, established in 1977. Strong for flatwork, dressage and showjumping with regular clinics—plus great progression for children through adults (including BHS exam prep).
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A purpose-built, BHS-approved RDA centre that also runs able-bodied lessons. Known for inclusivity and great coaching, with specialist mounting equipment and a brilliant sensory garden alongside standard schooling
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An inclusive, award-recognised centre offering lessons from beginner to advanced, with group, private and discipline-specific sessions (e.g., dressage/jumping). Also known for Pony Club days and education/therapy programs
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Lv All prices were taken from official websites/booking pages and recent centre posts at the time of writing (12 November 2025). Prices, durations and age brackets can change—please check each centre’s current page or call before booking.
What levels do these schools teach?
All listed centres teach from complete beginners through to confident riders; several also support exam prep and competition-style training (flatwork/jumping).
Are there indoor arenas for winter?
Yes—multiple centres (Stepney Bank, Penshaw, Washington, Murton) have indoor arenas so lessons run year-round.
Do any centres focus on inclusivity or therapy?
Washington Riding Centre is a purpose-built RDA facility with specialist equipment and a sensory garden; East Boldon also offers inclusive/therapy-oriented programs.
Is hacking available?
Some yards do offer hacking, but this guide focuses on structured lessons (flatwork, jumping, dressage) per our brief. Check individual centres if you’re specifically after hacks.
What should I wear/bring?
Long trousers/leggings and heeled boots are typical; most schools can lend a hat for first lessons. Confirm hat hire, gloves and cancellation policy when booking (varies by centre).