Horse riding lessons
Experience the joy of horse riding lessons at Ferring Country Centre. We offer general horse riding lessons for the public, welcoming adults and children aged four and upwards. We also provide therapeutic riding sessions specifically designed for those with physical and/or learning disabilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, our highly qualified instructors are here to guide you.
Our lessons run throughout the week, except on Wednesdays when our horses enjoy a well-deserved rest. As a British Horse Society (BHS) approved and council licensed centre, we prioritise the care of our animals, ensuring a safe and professional environment for all. Our lessons are popular, and while we may have a waiting list, the experience is worth it.
By joining our horse riding lessons, you’re not only connecting with these magnificent animals but also supporting our mission to provide life-changing experiences for people with learning disabilities.
Horse riding in West Sussex:
Our facilities and lesson options
Our facilities
Our facilities offer a complete horse riding experience, including outdoor and indoor arenas for year-round lessons.
For those who enjoy hacking, we offer fantastic offsite routes, including picturesque beach rides, and our nature trail is perfect for a relaxed ride. Our well-mannered horses are trained for all types of lessons, including therapeutic riding, making them suitable for a diverse range of riders.
Type of lessons
We offer horse riding lessons for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Choose private horse riding lessons for one-on-one instruction or join group lessons to benefit from the camaraderie that comes with everyone learning together. Our lessons include flat riding, jumping, and beach hacks depending on your interests. To join our riding school, simply create an account and complete the rider information form via our online booking system.
Riders with prior experience must book a 30 minute private assessment before joining a group lesson or hack. This helps us understand your skills and ensures you’re placed in the appropriate class. The 30 minute assessment is not necessary for children who have no prior experience.
Our horse riding lesson prices
- 30 minute private horse riding lessons or assessment - £42 per person
- 30 minute semi private lesson (maximuM of two people) - £35 per person
- 45 minute weekday under-18 group lesson - £38.50 per person
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1 hour group lesson - £42 per person
If three people or less are booked for the lesson, it will be 45 minutes If only one person is booked for the lesson, it will be 30 minutes - 1 hour hack – up to three people with one escort - £42 per person
- 1 hour 30 minute beach ride - £65 per person
- Hat hire - £1 per person
- Lead rein - £27.50 per person
Meet our instructors
Helen doesn’t remember a time when she didn’t love horses! She started riding when she was 10 years old and was hooked after just one lesson. Helen’s first horse-related job was as an eventing groom where she gained all her practical skills and foundational knowledge of horses. She attended equine college and gained professional equestrian qualifications, coaching certificates, and her Intermediate Stable Manager’s Certificate.
Helen joined us in 2002 as our Riding Therapy Manager, before becoming manager of our riding school in 2020. When teaching, her focus is to impart as much practical knowledge as she can to inform the rider. Helen competes in dressage, and she has won a championship while riding Mr Snuffles from our riding school.
“I absolutely love every day at my job. I have an amazing team working with me, and I look forward to developing the riding school and continuing to impart as much knowledge to people as I can.”
Kayeley has been working in the equine industry since she was 16, and attended Brinsbury College where she gained an HND and Level 3 qualification in equine management. Her studies helped her develop a passion for teaching others and she took her horsemanship and coaching exams through the British Horse Society.
After spending five years teaching at Plumpton College, Kayeley joined our team in 2023 and combines her teaching experience with her love of caring for horses.
“I love my role as Riding School Team Leader. I’m passionate about helping our riders grow and develop their skills in a supportive environment.”
Emma has been a dedicated member of the team at Ferring Country Centre since 2008. Working four days a week, Emma is responsible for teaching all levels of horse riding therapy, helping individuals of various abilities connect with horses and experience the therapeutic benefits of riding. Her passion for equine education extends beyond just teaching people – Emma is also deeply involved in the training and care of the horses at the centre.
Emma enjoys riding her own pony, Buddy, alongside her daughter. Together, they explore the beautiful trails of the South Downs.
“It’s wonderful seeing the positive impact horses have on people’s lives, especially through the power of riding therapy.”
Tabitha received her first horse – a naughty Shetland pony – when she was just two years old, and has had horses ever since. She joined Ferring Country Centre as a support worker on our farm in 2018, before joining our stables team in 2022.
Tabitha has gained her Stage 1 and Stage 2 groom and coach qualifications from the British Horse Society and, as our hack leader, she leads rides to the beach and around Ferring village.
“I’m excited about being part of a great team that delivers so much enjoyment. I love the interaction and engagement with the horses, visitors and the people with learning disabilities who we support.”
Frequently asked questions
Who can have horse riding lessons at Ferring Country Centre?
Anyone over the age of four, with no upper age limit. As long as you’re fit and healthy, we welcome you to join our riding lessons. To be considered for lessons, you need to create an account through our online booking system.
Do I need to have prior riding experience?
Is there a weight limit for riders?
Is horse riding dangerous?
What should I wear for riding?
Do I need a body protector?
Is Ferring Country Centre’s riding school approved or inspected?
Yes, we are licensed by the local council. We are also inspected and approved annually by the British Horse Society (BHS), and as such, we are listed on the BHS website as an approved riding school. This ensures that we maintain the highest standards of welfare and safety for our horses and riders.
Do horse riding lessons still take place in bad weather?
What should I do if I need to cancel my lesson?
We operate a 48-hour cancellation policy. If you need to cancel please do this via the online booking system and with at least 48 hours’ notice, the credit will be returned to your online account for future use.
