How do I book a lesson?
Please register, add a rider to your account and book via this website. If you need any help please call us on 01912571369. We will ensure your horse or pony is tacked up and ready to go. How to Register - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qTFwZ90ig0
Is there a weight limit?
Our current weight limit is 12 stones or 76 kilos (including hat and boots) and we adjust that according to the horses we have in work. Each horse has it’s own individual weight limit. You may be asked to step onto our scales to ensure your weight is kept up to date.
How old do you have to be to start riding?
We have lessons suitable for 4yrs plus in the leadrein group lessons. Riders aged 2-4years can join our Pony Petting or Walk riding experience sessions. Riders can start private lessons from 6yrs old. We have no upper age limit.
Do you do gift vouchers?
Please register as a user and you can buy gift vouchers at the bottom of 'Your Account' page. From any value from £5. Once you have checked out the voucher will be automatically emailed to your email address. How to buy gift voucher video -https://youtube.com/shorts/nVmkoehmymw?feature=shared
Do I need a riding hat?
We have a large selection of hats, meeting current standards, specifically for lending out to customers. This means you don’t need to buy your own until you are certain riding is something you want to go on with. You must always wear a hat that conforms with the latest safety standards when riding. We have a strict disinfecting system in place, please help us by purchasing your own hat if you are a regular rider.
Do I need Jodhpurs?
No. Any pair of stretchy long trousers will do. We do not allow people to ride in shorts as you can end up with very uncomfortable legs.
We find that, after a few weeks, most of our customers do invest in a pair of jodhpurs as they are designed specifically for the task. We sell them in our on site tack shop.
Do I need riding boots?
No. Any pair of boots or shoes with a low heel will be suitable to get you started. You cannot ride in trainers as, having no heel, they can allow the foot to slip through the stirrup, causing an accident. If you wish to purchase a pair of boots after your first few lessons, we sell them in our tack shop.
Do I need a back protector?
It depends what you want to do. We will not insist you wear a back protector for introductory lessons and most flat work. We strongly recommend, however, that, if you want to do jumping, you should invest in one.
What lessons are available?
The centre offers a wide range of different lesson formats. If you have not ridden with us before you will need to book a private assesment lesson. If you or your child is a complete beginner you will need to book a private beginner lunge or leadrein group lesson.
Are the instructors qualified?
We have a selection of qualified instructors up to BHSII. The competence of our instructors is verified annually by the British Horse Society (BHS), Pony Club and Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS).
Is riding dangerous?
It can be. A horse’s behaviour can be unpredictable and even the most highly trained can sometimes react in an unexpected way. We do our best to minimise risk but horses do have their own minds.
We do everything we can to keep our riders safe:
We are inspected annually, by the BHS, Local Authority and Pony Club. Our horses and ponies are carefully selected for their temperament. All of our instructors are trained in the safe conduct of lessons. All of our riding hats meet current safety standards. We have First Aid trained staff available at all times.
What age can children start riding?
A 30 minute lesson is fairly demanding for a youngster and we do not offer lessons unless the rider is 4 years old. We offer pony petting session which includes grooming, riding, painting and feeding the ponies. These sessions are available from 2 years.
What do I do if I need to cancel?
Please cancel via your online account or call us on 01912571369 and let us know that you can’t make it. Please try to let us have at least 24 hours notice after that you will be charged for the lesson. How to Cancel a Lesson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7l1-JMM4x8
Do you have suitable horses and ponies?
The centre has a large selection of horses and ponies to suit all ages and abilities. Our ponies start at 12hh and our tallest horse is 17.2hh.We do have an upper weight limit for riders of 12 stone to protect the health of the horses.
What happens if it is raining?
Don’t worry as we have a large indoor school. Riding lessons will always go ahead…… whatever the weather!
If we haven’t answered your question here, please call 01912571369 or email us murtonequestriancentre@gmail.com and we will do our best to help.
