Choosing livery can feel confusing because the labels sound simple, but real life isn’t. “DIY”, “part”, and “full” don’t just describe a package. They describe how your horse will be cared for on your busiest week, not your best week.
This guide will help you choose the right option quickly, based on what actually matters: your time, your routine, and what your horse needs to stay settled and well.
3 Questions That Decide The Right Livery
1) How often can you realistically get to the yard?
Not “how often you hope to”. Realistically.
- If you can’t reliably do morning and evening, DIY can become stressful fast.
- If you can usually manage one visit a day, a support-based option (assisted DIY/part) often fits better.
- If your schedule is unpredictable, full livery is usually the calmest choice.
2) How hands-on do you want to be?
Some owners love daily care. Others want their time to be mostly riding and bonding.
- If you enjoy doing care and want control: DIY or assisted DIY
- If you want support but still be involved: part livery
- If you want routines handled consistently for you: full livery
3) What does your horse need for consistency?
Some horses cope with flexible routines. Others don’t.
If your horse needs:
- consistent turnout routines
- regular monitoring
- controlled forage/weight management
- medication or rehab support
…then the “right” livery is usually the one that can deliver consistent care even when you’re not there.
If your schedule looks like this, choose this livery
This is the most practical way to choose. Match your week to the closest scenario below, then use it as your starting point when you speak to yards.
“I can visit twice a day most days”
Best fit: DIY livery (or grass livery if your horse suits living out)
This works well if you genuinely have the time and you enjoy doing daily care. You’ll get the most control and usually the lowest base cost.
Watch-outs:
- DIY only stays “easy” if you can keep it up in winter and during busy weeks.
- You’ll need a backup plan for travel, illness, and late workdays.
“I can visit once a day, but mornings/evenings aren’t reliable”
Best fit: Assisted DIY or Part livery
This is the sweet spot for many working owners. You stay involved, but the yard covers the tasks you can’t guarantee every day (often turnout/bring-in or feeds).
Watch-outs:
- “Part livery” can vary massively. Always ask for the exact task list and which days it applies.
- Check what’s included vs what becomes an extra charge.
“I work long hours / my schedule changes weekly”
Best fit: Full livery (or a very structured part/assisted package)
Full livery keeps the horse’s routine consistent even when your week isn’t. That consistency often matters more than owners expect.
Watch-outs:
- Full livery doesn’t always include everything. Confirm what’s included (forage, bedding, rug changes, holding).
- Make sure communication is clear so you still feel connected to what’s happening.
“I’m away often or I travel for work”
Best fit: Full livery
If you’re away regularly, the best option is the one that doesn’t rely on you being physically present. It reduces stress for you and keeps care steady for the horse.
Watch-outs:
- Ask how they handle emergencies when the owner can’t be reached.
- Ask how updates are shared (so you’re not chasing information from afar).
“I can only do weekends”
Best fit: Full livery or Part livery where the yard covers weekdays fully
This can work beautifully if the yard handles the week, and weekends become your riding and bonding time.
Watch-outs:
- Confirm what happens on bank holidays and busy periods.
- Make sure there’s no assumption that you’ll “pop in” midweek.
“I’m on a tight budget, but I still want a yard”
Best fit: DIY or Grass livery
DIY/grass livery typically have lower monthly fees because you’re providing the labour. It can be a good option if you’re consistent and organised.
Watch-outs:
- The true cost includes hay/bedding/feed, and your time.
- Budget for occasional paid help (because life happens).
“I want reduced cost and my horse is safe for lessons”
Best fit: Working livery (only with clear written terms)
Working livery can reduce costs, but it’s only suitable if you’re comfortable sharing use of your horse and the agreement is crystal clear.
Watch-outs:
- Define workload, rider type, limits, and insurance responsibilities in writing.
Quick reality check (the one that stops regret)
Before you choose, ask:
“Which option still works in winter, on my busiest week, when I’m tired?”
That’s usually the correct answer.
Next reads if you’re choosing livery right now
If you’re exploring options, the most helpful next reads are:
- Types of livery explained: DIY vs Part vs FullUseful if you want quick clarity on what each package normally involves.
- What’s included in livery? A checklist to compare yardsHelps compare yards properly without relying on labels like “part” or “full”.
- Choosing a livery yard: what to considerA shortlist framework: what matters most in the UK, and what’s just “nice to have”.
- Questions to ask when viewing a livery yard (Printable checklist)The viewing-day script so you don’t forget the important checks.
- Livery costs in the UK: typical price ranges & what affects themGood for budgeting and understanding what changes the price.