RIDING LESSONS

 

Learn. Ride. Progress. Enjoy.

Whether you're climbing into the saddle for the very first time or looking to improve your riding, our lessons are designed to help you become a confident, capable and knowledgeable rider.

At Ballyleigh Riding School, we welcome riders of different ages and abilities and aim to make every lesson enjoyable while helping each rider develop at their own pace.

From your very first ride to learning to jump, developing your skills or working towards your own personal goals, we're here to help you every step of the way.

YOUR RIDING JOURNEY STARTS HERE 

 

🌱 COMPLETE BEGINNERS

Never ridden before?

Our beginner lessons introduce riders to the basics in a friendly, supportive environment.

You'll begin learning how to:

Safely approach and handle a pony

Mount and dismount

Find a balanced position

Use basic aids

Steer

Stop and start

Develop confidence in the saddle

Understand basic horse care

 

🐴 DEVELOPING RIDERS

For riders who have learned the basics and are ready to progress.

Lessons can include:

Improving balance and position

Developing the walk and trot

Learning to ride independently

Developing transitions

Learning and developing the canter

Pole work

Schooling exercises

Improving steering and control

Developing confidence

 

🏆 JUMPING & PROGRESSION

For riders ready to take the next step, lessons can progress towards jumping and more advanced riding skills.

Depending on experience and ability, training may include:

Pole work

Cavaletti

Small fences

Jumping courses

Gridwork

Show jumping skills

Improving rhythm and approach

Developing confidence over fences

We always work within the ability of both horse and rider, introducing new challenges progressively and focusing on confidence, safety and good riding.

Whether your goal is simply to jump your first fence or you're working towards competing, we'll help you take the next step when you're ready.

 

👨‍👩‍👧 FAMILY & GROUP RIDING

Riding is something the whole family can enjoy.

Whether you're booking lessons for siblings, looking to ride together as a family or simply want to share your love of horses with someone special, we can help you find a suitable option.

Ask us about available group and family riding options.

 

⭐ PRIVATE LESSONS

Looking for more individual attention?

Private lessons allow the session to be focused specifically on the rider's needs, goals and areas for improvement.

Private lessons can be particularly useful for riders working towards a specific goal or wanting additional confidence and support.

Frequently asked questions

What age can children start riding?

Children can start riding at 5 years old. We tailor lessons to each rider's age, experience and confidence level.

Do you offer adult riding lessons?

Yes! Adults of all abilities are welcome, from complete beginners to more experienced riders looking to improve their skills.

How long are the riding lessons?

We offer 30-minute and 1-hour lessons, along with selected longer sessions available on request.

Are lessons private or in groups?

We offer group, family and private lessons, depending on availability and the rider's needs.

What happens during my first lesson?

Your first lesson is all about getting comfortable, building confidence and enjoying your experience.

We'll introduce you to your pony and explain the basics of safely handling and interacting with them.

Your instructor will then guide you through mounting and getting settled in the saddle before introducing the basic riding skills appropriate to your age and experience.

There's no pressure to do everything straight away. We'll take things at a pace that suits you, making sure you feel comfortable and supported throughout your lesson.

 

Most importantly, your first lesson is the beginning of your own journey with horses — and we hope it's the start of something you'll love for years to come.

Do I need previous riding experience?

Not at all! We welcome complete beginners, so there’s no need to have ridden before.

Whether you've never been on a horse or you're returning to riding after many years, we'll meet you at your level and help you build your confidence at your own pace.

What will I learn in my riding lesson?

Lessons can include flatwork, developing balance and position, steering, transitions, trotting, cantering, jumping and other riding skills.

Can I learn to jump?

Yes! Jumping is available for riders who have developed the necessary skills and confidence. Riders progress at their own pace, starting with poles and smaller fences before progressing further.

What should I wear for my first lesson?

Wear comfortable clothing suitable for riding, preferably long trousers, along with suitable riding footwear with a small heel.

If you have your own correctly fitted riding hat, you are welcome to bring it. Riding hats may also be available to borrow, subject to availability.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. For the welfare of our horses and ponies, our current maximum rider weight is 13 stone (82.5kg).

How do I book a lesson?

Lessons must be booked and paid for in advance through our booking system.

We recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance.

I'm not sure which lesson is right for me. What should I do?

Don't worry! If you're unsure which lesson is most suitable, get in touch with us before booking and we'll be happy to help find the right option for you or your child.

021 206 6540

ballyleighridingschool@gmail.com

STILL HAVE A QUESTION?

If you can't find the answer you're looking for, just get in touch.

We're always happy to help.

READY TO START YOUR RIDING JOURNEY?

Whether you're taking your first steps into the world of horses, returning to riding after years away or looking for your next challenge, we'd love to welcome you to Ballyleigh.

Your journey doesn't have to start with a big dream.

Sometimes it starts with simply getting into the saddle.

LEARN. RIDE. PROGRESS. ENJOY.