These taster sessions have been designed for children of 3 to 8 years who have none or very little previous experience, however they are great for ‘grown up children’ too – the perfect family outing! This exciting experience will last around 15 minutes a gently led ride around the fields next to the stables.
These rides run at the end of the afternoon when the yard is less busy, so are suitable for any nervous riders. This is the ideal way to experience riding for the first time and is a good introduction for anybody new to ponies. No roads are used.
Required documents for Health and Safety are included in the booking process and must be completed before arrival.
EQUIPMENT PROVIDED
Protective headgear provided and must be worn at all times once registration is complete.
PARTICIPANTS TO TAKE
Wear suitable outdoor clothing & sturdy shoes with a small heel.
We also ask that accompanying adults wear suitable sturdy shoes.
EXPERIENCE
No previous experience required, not just for kids – adults can walk with us and capture the moment. Required documents attached to your booking confirmation are required to be completed by all participants prior to arrival. You will not be able to participate if these are not completed as they are part of our Health and Safety procedure.
WEIGHT MAXIMUM
Ideally, a max weight of 6 Stone (38 Kg)
MEETING POINT
The Stables. Please park at either the Triangle or Woodland car parks and walk to the stables.
For a map and directions, you can download the free app what3words.
The Car Park for our Stables is located at the what3words location: traffic.privately.ripen
The Stables are located just across the field from the Car Park at the what3words location: push.trials.domain.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
Please arrive at the stables 20-25 minutes prior to the session.
CANCELLATION POLICY
If you need to change your booking or to cancel, we do require 24 hours notice in order for you to receive a full refund.
DURATION
Approx 15 minutes You must arrive 20-25 mins before session starts
PRICE
£20 per person. Minimum 3 years (under 12’s must be accompanied by an adult).
DATES
Open from February to November. Full programme from Easter – October 31st. Closed on Tuesdays expect during School Holidays.
INSTRUCTORS
Jennifer Macdonald
Jen has been involved with the ponies on the estate for 10 years now and officially
bought the yard in April 2025. She has worked with horses for over 20 years from
trekking centres, competition yards, looking after private livery yards and is heavily
involved in the RDA. She holds qualifications from the BHS and TRSS.
Megan Vis
Megan has worked with the ponies on the estate for 5 years now, starting as a volunteer
and eventually becoming a full time team member. She has great knowledge of the
ponies and the estate and is always happy to share this with the clients. She holds
qualifications with the BHS.
Elle Anderson
Elle recently joined the team summer 2025. She was based in New Zealand and also Spain where she worked as a trek leader and training horses. She has fit into the team
like she has always been here and we are excited for her return Summer 2026. She
holds qualifications with the BHS.
Sarah Wilson
Sarah again has been involved with the ponies on the estate for a number of years. In
the past she has been a keen polo player and freelance worker with horses all around
the area. She holds qualifications with the BHS.
We aim to use pedigree Highland ponies due to their hardy and strong nature as well as their kind temperament. We also have a Shetland/Exmoor cross pony and a Dartmoor pony to allow us to take smaller riders. We are a very friendly team, both human and equine, and have rides going out all year round (weather dependant) tailored by ability.
CREDIBILITY
We are a TRSS approved centre and most of our riding is varied, off road heathland or caladonian pine woodland terrain.
