Equestrian Services in Essex

Essex has a surprising amount of riding country for a county so close to London, with ancient forests, quiet lanes and farmland, and a large number of livery yards and riding schools.

Where to ride in Essex
Epping Forest and Hatfield Forest are two of the best-known places to ride, offering woodland tracks close to towns such as Ongar and Bishop's Stortford. The Flitch Way, a former railway line between Braintree and the edge of Bishop's Stortford, is a long, traffic-free route open to horses. Further north, the countryside around Saffron Walden, Dunmow and Colchester has plenty of farm rides and bridleways.

Riding schools, livery and lessons in Essex
Our Essex directory lists riding schools, livery yards, trainers and stables in towns such as Colchester, Chelmsford, Maldon, Brentwood and Dunmow. Most riding schools offer group and private lessons for beginners and experienced riders, and many run pony days and holiday clubs for children. Prices vary between centres, so it is worth contacting a few to compare. Look for British Horse Society (BHS) or Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS) approval as a sign of good standards.