Riding Experience

We ask all our guests who are booking for horse riding and trekking activities to declare their experience level at the time of booking, using the following definitions.

As well as being an important safety factor, this ensures the right horse for your skills can be reserved prior to you arriving at the stables, as well as helping to ensure you get the most enjoyment from your day with "no surprises".

Don't forget - if you are a "Rusty Rider" or would like some coaching or a lesson or two just let s know and we will sort you out with a BHS qualified instructor.

We also, in consideration for our horses, impose an upper weight limit of 95kg (15st) clothed with riding boots / shoes for horse riding activities, though for a short ride of around an hour or so we could accommodate up to 102 kg (16 st).

As everyone's definition of "Intermediate" is different, we ask that in order to ensure that everyone has an equal understanding of the experience levels, that you honestly grade yourself using the following guide (if you have any doubts or need further information on any aspect please do hesitate to contact us) :

Click to return to:

• Winter Riding Holidays timetable
   
• Summer Riding Holiday
   
• Horse riding index

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Grade

Definition

Complete beginner

Never sat on a horse before - no experience of riding

Novice

Some Riding experience (up to 40hrs).  Is in control at rising trot and can use some basic leg & hand aids.

Intermediate

Over 40hrs experience.  Can mount and dismount unassisted and is happy at rising trot and cantering in a safe environment.  Has a working knowledge of the basic aids and using them.  Happier riding a steadier mount with little unpredictable behaviour.

Experienced

Competent rider and is in control of mount at all times in walk, trot, canter & gallops.  Has an "independent seat" and uses voice, hand, leg & weight aids correctly.  May have some jumping experience.

Expert

Has many years riding experience and may have ridden competitively.  Has an in depth knowledge of both the theory & practise of riding and also possesses a  good knowledge of equine welfare

Return to:

• Winter Riding Holidays timetable
   
• Summer Riding Holiday
   
• Horse riding index