enjoy a
pony ride

Supervised pony rides and beginner experiences for children

At Chelmsford Equestrian Centre, our riding lessons are structured to guide everyone – from first-time riders to experienced equestrians — through a safe, progressive journey. All lessons are delivered by fully qualified and approved instructors, using school horses and ponies matched to each rider’s age, experience and confidence level.

Whether you are a child or an adult, returning to riding, or starting afresh, we offer private lessons, group programmes and assessment sessions to ensure you begin at the right level and progress comfortably.

What pony-ride options are available?

School-Holiday Pony Rides

  • For children aged 4–8 years.

  • Children ride in small groups (max 5), each led by an individual instructor walking beside the pony.

  • Duration: 20 minutes, price: £25.80

  • Maximum weight limit for this ride: 7 stone.

Pony Experience (60-minute session)

  • Aimed at children who want a fuller “first pony” experience: includes grooming, tacking up, riding, untacking, and stable time.

  • Price: £64.50 for first child; £43.00 for each additional child (up to two additional children).

  • This 60-minute session comprises a 30-minute riding lesson plus 30 minutes pony care.

  • Maximum weight limit for Pony Experience: 11 stone.

Tiny Tots Pony Rides

  • For children aged 4–5 years

  • Held on Saturdays at 12.30 and Sundays at 12:00

  • Price: £25.80

Who are the pony rides for?

  • Children from age 4 (for Tiny Tots or School-Holiday Rides) up to 8 years (for standard School-Holiday Pony Rides).

  • Parents who want children to have a safe, gentle first pony experience, under close supervision (each pony is led by a centre leader).

  • Families seeking short fun rides or a more complete “first-pony” experience, including grooming and stable work.

Trusting in our ponies and leaders

What should I be aware of before booking?

  • There is a weight limit: 7 stone for the 20-minute ride, 11 stone for the 60-minute Pony Experience.

  • School-Holiday Pony Rides depend on other centre activities — times vary, so always check availability before booking.

  • Tiny Tots Rides are only on weekends (Sat & Sun) at 12:30 pm.

Why choose Pony Rides at Chelmsford Equestrian Centre?

Because at our centre:

  • Each child gets personal attention – one leader per pony – ensuring safety and a friendly, calm environment.

  • Pony Experiences offer more than just a ride: they give children a taste of what it’s like to own a pony, including grooming and stable care.

  • Our flexible ride options (20-minute ride, 60-minute experience, Tiny Tots) mean you can choose something appropriate for your child’s age, attention span, and comfort level.

  • The centre is approved by BHS, ABRS, and RDA – meaning our standards of safety, horse-care, and instruction meet recognised benchmarks.