Riding schools must be approved by the British Horse Society or the Association of British Riding Schools. A recognized school will have the letters B.H.S. or A.B.R.S. approved on its advertisements or M.A.B.R.S., Member of the Association of British Riding Schools. This means that the school has satisfied an inspector in its standard of instruction and the welfare of its horses but does not mean that it is perfect and above criticism at all times. Use your eyes and intelligence, contact the British Horse Society and ask them to send you a list of approved schools.

Look for a tidy yard with a well-cared for atmosphere. The horses should be clean and well rounded without being fat. They should look calm and contented in their work, not sour and bored with their ears back and tails swishing. Ask about what other activities the school arranges such as shows, stable management lessons, quizzes and lectures etc. It is nice to belong to an enthusiastic riding school, not one that is simply interested in taking your money at weekends.

 

 

 

Where shall I ride?

The best recommendation of a riding school is always by word of mouth, ask amongst your friends about the stables where they ride. If possible, go along and watch a lesson in progress and see if the school appeals to you. Watch for their attitude towards the animals and people. The instructors and grooms must care about their charges.

 

Tack should be well fitting and in a good state of repair, comfortable for both horse and rider. Ask about what other activities the school arranges such as shows, stable management lessons, quizzes and lectures. It is nice to belong to an enthusiastic riding school, not one that is simply interested in taking your money at weekends.   

  Once you have found a school that suits you, find out what the school expects of you. How much notice is required for a cancellation? What clothes should you wear? No well-run school is going to tolerate unpunctual, scruffy clients. Help the school to keep up its standards.

 

 

Click on the link to see a list of recommended riding schools and livery yards in Hertfordshire.