take a look
around our riding school
Providing the best horse riding lessons in chelmsford
Chelmsford Equestrian Centre provides professional, friendly and fully-insured horse and pony riding lessons for children and adults of all abilities. Whether you’re trying riding for the first time, building confidence, or developing advanced skills, our instructors provide personalised coaching in a safe and supportive environment.
Our riding school is BHS approved, with qualified coaches, well-trained horses and ponies, and excellent facilities designed to help every rider progress at a pace that feels right for them.
What Makes Our Riding School Different?
Learning to ride with us means joining a supportive community where safety, learning, and enjoyment come first.
We teach complete beginners through to experienced riders and support each person’s goals – confidence, fitness, technique, horse care, or simply the joy of being around horses.
You’ll have access to:
Friendly, fully-qualified instructors
Calm, well-schooled horses and ponies suited to every level
Indoor and outdoor riding arenas
Safe, structured learning programmes
Options for children, adults, groups and private 1-to-1 lessons
Safe, structured horse riding lessons
We are British Horse Society Approved
The assessments our staff have had to undergo along with ongoing training means they’ve earned their stripes.
Nobody teaches here, without qualification, and that really does mean you’re getting some of the best instruction.
Our premises are also inspected and this confirms we have safe arenas, paddocks and comfortable changing facilities for you.
Who Are Our Riding Lessons For?
We welcome:
Beginners & First-Time Riders
If you’ve never ridden before, our instructors specialise in helping you feel safe, relaxed and comfortable around horses. Your first sessions will focus on mounting, balance, reins, steering and confidence.
Children & Young Riders
We offer engaging pony sessions and structured riding lessons tailored to children of all ages. Young riders learn through fun, safe and progressive activities — ideal for confidence-building and long-term skill development.
Improvers & Intermediate Riders
For riders who want to improve their technique, balance, control, and understanding of horse movement. Lessons may include trot–canter transitions, light jumping, pole work, and effective aids.
Advanced & Discipline-Focused Riders
For riders looking to refine their skills in schooling, dressage, polework, jumping or preparing for competitions. Sessions focus on precision, technique, horse connection and rider biomechanics.
Nervous or Returning Riders
If you’ve had a break from riding or lost confidence, our instructors work gently at your pace to rebuild trust, strength, and enjoyment.
How Much Do Riding Lessons Cost?
Lesson prices vary depending on rider level, lesson duration, and whether you prefer group or private instruction.
You can view the full price list here.
Typical options include:
Children’s lessons
Adult private lessons
Group sessions
Pony experiences
Block bookings or packages
If you’re unsure which lesson type suits you, our team can advise.
what happens during a lesson?
What Happens in a Riding Lesson?
Lessons are structured to provide a clear, safe and enjoyable learning experience. A typical session includes:
Welcome & safety check
Helmet fitting, footwear check, and introduction to your horse or pony.Mounting & warm-up
Guidance with mounting, then walking exercises to settle into the saddle and establish balance.Skill development
Depending on your level, this may include steering, transitions, trot work, cantering, polework or jumping.Cool-down & dismount
A gentle walk, relaxation of the horse, and instructor feedback.Progress plan
Your instructor explains what you achieved and what you’ll work on in future lessons.
How Safe Are Riding Lessons?
Safety is at the heart of our riding school.
All riders receive help with helmets and suitable footwear, and beginners are always led or supervised closely.
Our safety measures include:
Qualified, DBS-checked instructors
Fully-insured lessons
Controlled riding environments
Structured progression to more advanced skills
Horses chosen for steady, reliable temperaments
If you’re unsure about anything, our team is always happy to explain or guide you.
Some amazing horses and ponies to enjoy
Our Horses & Ponies
We carefully match horses and ponies to each rider’s size, experience and confidence level.
Our riding school horses are chosen for their temperament, training, and reliability, making them ideal partners for learning.
Smaller ponies for young or nervous riders
Steady horses for beginners
Responsive schoolmasters for intermediate and advanced riders
All horses receive regular exercise, vet care, farrier visits and professional schooling to keep them happy, healthy and ready to teach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own riding equipment?
No — we provide helmets, and suitable footwear can be discussed when booking. Regular riders often buy their own equipment, but it’s not required for beginners.
What age can children start riding?
Children can start pony lessons from a young age, depending on confidence and coordination. We’ll help you choose the right session.
What should I wear?
Shoes with a smooth sole and a small heel and full length trousers/jodhpurs, no shorts.
Is horse riding suitable for nervous children or adults?
Yes — we specialise in confidence-building lessons and will support you at your pace.
Do you run lessons all year round?
Yes — with our indoor arena, lessons continue in all seasons and most weather conditions.
Start Your Riding Journey Today
Whether you want weekly lessons, confidence-building sessions, structured training, or a fun pony experience for your child, Chelmsford Equestrian Centre offers a friendly and professional riding school for everyone.
To start your riding journey:
📞 Call us: 01245 358 116
📧 Email: reception@chelmsfordequestriancentre.co.uk
📝 Book online:click here to book
We look forward to welcoming you to the riding school.