Finding the right riding school

work or school but bear in mind that many outdoor arenas will often have lights too for riding after dark.
Want to watch?
Bigger riding schools sometimes have viewing galleries or arena seating perfect if you have family who want to watch you progress or if you want to keep an eye on your children while they learn.
Shiny happy horses
Horses come in all types and sizes and its important to learn to ride on one that suits you both in terms of size and temperament. The horses should look healthy and happy in their work and their saddles and bridles should be in good condition and look comfortable for the horse. A happy healthy horse is a much easier horse to learn on.
Choosing an Instructor
Finding the right instructor to suit your character is key to enjoying and progressing with your riding. If you are timid you may prefer to be nurtured gently whereas if you are confident and ambitious you might like to be pushed a little harder.
Booking the right lesson
You can choose from private or group lessons. The former may cost more but often its a great way to learn the ropes before you move on to the fun of group lessons.
What to wear for your first riding lesson
While you wont want to be all the gear and no idea on day one its important to dress for comfort and safety. Close fitting but stretchy trousers will help you to sit well in the saddle and smooth soled boots with small heels will help keep your feet secure in the stirrups. Your riding school should be able to lend you a properly fitting riding hat for the first few lessons. It wont be long before you are hooked and then you can ask your instructor for advice on buying your own hat boots and jodhpurs.