UK Organisations

Specialist Reports Activity Holidays Riding Holidays UK Organisations 

There are more than 3,000 riding schools and trekking centres in Britain. All riding establishments are legally required to hold a Local Authority Licence.

In addition the centre may be a member of the following:

The British Horse Society (BHS)
British Equestrian Centre, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire CV 2LR
(01926) 707 762 (press 01926 707738)

Represents the interests of horse and rider and operates an approval scheme. It is probably the premier organisation for horse matters in the UK but non-membership does not necessarily mean a school is not good. The web site details members and includes a section on riding holidays. Also has members overseas including Spain, New Zealand and the US.

Instructor qualifications to look for are BHSAI (assistant instructor), Intermediate Instructor which is even better, and there are limited numbers of full BHS instructors.

An ‘approved' school indicates that it has also been passed by the BHS. Approval indicates good welfare for the horses and ponies, having enough appropriate horses for different levels or riders, that the yard safe and well run, that there hats to loan, to the current safety standard, in plenty of sizes, and finally that there is a good standard of teaching. Generally this means qualified teachers though good teachers with experience rather than paper qualifications are accepted. The approval system is designed to make riding safer for clients so is a good system. Places without this licence may be cheaper but may also be cutting corners.

The Association of British Riding Schools(ABRS)
Queen's Chambers, 38-40 Queen Street, Penzance, Cornwall TR18 4HB
(01736) 369 440

A professional organisation founded in 1954, of riding schools and trekking centres, operating an approval scheme covering the horses and ponies, equipment, facilities and instruction. Operates an exam and testing system for those looking for a career with horses. Publishes an annual handbook of members, £5.00.

The Wales Trekking & Riding Association (WTRA)
Standby House, 9 Nevill Street, Abergavenny Gwent NP7 5AA
(01873) 858 717

Approves centres in Wales.

The Trekking & Riding Society of Scotland (TRSS)
Boreland, Fearnan, by Aberfeldy, Perthshire PH15 2PG
(01887) 830 274

Approves centres in Scotland.