When can I ride?

We are open 7 days a week, 363 days of the year - shutting only on Christmas and Boxing Day. Lessons and hacks are available between 9 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. at the weekends and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays. There is always someone available in the office between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. every day of the week.

Are there any restrictions on age or weight?

The minimum age for riding with us is four years of age - there is no upper age limit. The maximum weight of rider we can accommodate is fifteen stone (or 95 kg).

How do I pay?

Payment is required at the time of reservation and can be made via credit/debit card, cheque or cash. Incidentally all fees are reviewed annually by 1st April.

What happens if I need to cancel my reservation?

Horse riding is an outdoor activity, therefore we continue in all weathers. We do require forty-eight hours notice of cancellation in order to refund or transfer your reservation fee.

What time should I arrive?

If you have not been to us before please arrive at least fifteen minutes before your Introductory Session to enable one of our team to welcome you and assist in completing a new Rider Registration form.

Otherwise generally plan to arrive at least five minutes before your riding time as we do follow a punctual timetable. Please note that mounting and dismounting is included in the duration time of each service as quoted on our Price List.

What should I wear?

Whilst riding hats can initially be borrowed from us, once you decide to ride regularly with us it is important to have your own hat professionally fitted to ensure maximum protection - along with your own body protector.

Footwear needs to be of a sturdy construction with a smooth sole and small heel to prevent the foot slipping through the stirrup.

As horse riding is an outdoor activity please select clothing that will adequately protect you from the rain, cold or sun as appropriate. Jogger bottoms or leggings are an ideal alternative to jodhpurs and please remove jewellery and any solid items from your pockets pre riding to prevent loss or personal injury.

Note for the more advanced riders: spurs may only be worn by students training at British Horse Stage 3 Level and above.

Am I likely to fall-off?

Whilst horse riding is rightly recognised as a "risk sport" you can be assured that we take your safety very seriously and as a result the risk of an accident whilst riding at Lavant House Stables is far lower than is considered the norm. However you must be aware that if you choose to ride regularly the odds are that at some point in the future you will fall off - the reassurance is that nine times out of ten you will be painlessly back up on your feet before you even realise you fell off in the first place!
At Lavant House Stables you have the added confidence of knowing the majority of our people hold the current "First Aid at Work" qualification, with training specifically geared towards equestrian related incidents. This training enables staff to deal swiftly, competently, and safely with any occurrence.
It is important to also be aware that horses are large, sensitive animals that can behave unpredictably at any time. For your own safety and those that you are responsible for, follow all guidelines we give to enjoy maximum benefit from being in the wonderful environment of horses.