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Warning: These 10 Manchester Horseback Riding Spots Will Make You Want to Saddle Up Forever!
I’ve got a confession to make—I’m absolutely rubbish at knitting. Why am I bringing this up in a guide about horseback riding? Because, just like my knitting, my riding started off a bit…tangled.
But unlike my knitting, which remains a pile of yarn and good intentions, my love for horseback riding in Greater Manchester has turned into something worth sharing.
Now, I might not be the Queen’s appointed equestrian (not yet, anyway), nor do I own a stable of prize-winning thoroughbreds, but I do know the ins and outs of where to find the best riding spots around our neck of the woods.
So, whether you’re looking to trot gently under leafy canopies or charge like a knight into your next riding adventure, here’s the lowdown on the top places that deserve your time in the saddle.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll find me there, happily tangled up in the reins.
Matlock Farm Park
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Website: Matlock Farm Park
Address: Jaggers Ln, Near Two Dales, Matlock DE4 5LH
Contact details: +44 1629 582953
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-4:30PM
Costs: £££
Looking for a bit of countryside charm with a dash of adventure? Matlock Farm Park’s your ticket. Here, you can mingle with a variety of friendly animals from meerkats to wallabies.
The park hosts daily sessions for animal handling and intriguing meerkat talks, making it a hit for families. Pony rides are a bargain and available every weekend and school holiday. They’ve even got sheep and ferret races for a bit of quirky entertainment.
The play areas are ace, featuring everything from a new multi-zone outdoor playground to the UK’s largest Jumping Pillow. And when you’re peckish, there’s a café and a coffee shop ready to refuel your day.
| Pro tip: Jump into those animal handling sessions early; they’re brilliant for a hands-on experience with the kids. |
Temperley Equestrian
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Website: Temperley Equestrian
Address: Chillington Hall, Codsall Wood, Wolverhampton WV8 1RE
Contact details: +44 1902 701645
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-5PM
Costs: ££
Nestled in the historic grounds of Chillington Hall, Temperley Equestrian is a real gem for anyone keen to get in the saddle. Whether you’re starting out or you’ve got a bit of experience under your belt, they’ve got you covered with some top-notch guidance that’ll sort you right out.
The trails? They’re lush and pretty vast, ideal for a leisurely ride or a more focused session to tighten up your technique. You can jump into a group lesson or book a one-on-one if you’re after something a bit more tailored.
And it’s not all just riding; their calendar’s chock-full of clinics and special events designed to up your game. All this set against the stunning backdrop of the British countryside—it’s enough to make you want to spend all day in the saddle.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of their specialised clinics to refine your skills, great for gaining deeper insights into equestrian techniques. |
Foxdenton Farm Riding School
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Website: Foxdenton Farm Riding School
Address: Foxdenton Ln, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 9QS
Contact details: +44 161 624 2849
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 9AM-8PM
- Sat – Sun 9AM-5PM
Costs: £££
At Foxdenton Farm Riding School, you’re right at home as soon as you step through the gates. It’s not just about getting on a horse; it’s about joining a community where everyone is ready to help each other out.
The teachers are spot-on, adept at coaching across all levels, and they genuinely care about each rider’s progress. Plus, the horses are top-notch, well-kept, and as friendly as the folks running the show.
Facility-wise, they’re fully equipped. With indoor and outdoor arenas, you’re sorted no matter the weather, ensuring a great ride every time. If you’re aiming to sharpen your equestrian skills or just have a relaxing day out, this school’s set up to deliver a solid experience.
| Pro tip: Try their weekend group sessions; they’re a fun way to learn and connect with other horse lovers. |
Reddish Vale Farm
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Website: Reddish Vale Farm
Address: Reddish Vale Rd, Stockport SK5 7HE
Contact details: +44 161 480 1645
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-5PM
Costs: ££
Step into Reddish Vale Farm and it’s like you’re hitting a big pause button on the modern world. This place is steeped in tradition, with a family lineage that’s been tending the land for generations.
You can chill with a variety of farmyard mates, from llamas that might out-stare you to guinea pigs you can cuddle.
The farm’s not just about gawping at animals though; they’ve got riding lessons for the nippers, and adventure playgrounds packed with everything from bouncy castles to zip wires. It’s a cracking spot for letting the kids loose or just kicking back and enjoying the slower pace.
| Pro tip: Definitely get your hands on some animal feed at the gate—it’s the best way to get up close with the furry locals. |
Carrington Riding Centre
Website: Carrington Riding Centre
Address: Isherwood Rd, Carrington
Contact details: +44 161 969 5853
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-9PM
Costs: ££
Carrington Riding Centre is just the ticket if you’re itching to escape the city grind but don’t fancy a trek to the middle of nowhere. Tucked just outside of Manchester, it boasts over 450 acres of lush countryside, perfect for a proper off-road hack that’ll make you forget you’re near a city.
They’ve kitted out the centre with everything you might need, no matter the weather: think an indoor school for those drizzly days and four all-weather outdoor arenas for when the sun decides to make an appearance.
There’s also a cosy café on site, ideal for grabbing a hot brew and maybe a bite while you watch the riders do their thing. Their advanced Racewood Dressage simulator is just the thing to help you find your feet again.
| Pro tip: Have a go on ‘Othello’, their dressage simulator—it’s a cracking way to fine-tune your technique without the pressure. |
Glen Jakes Riding School
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Website: Glen Jakes Riding School
Address: Bean Leach Rd, Stockport SK2 5JE
Contact details: +44 161 483 7063
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 8:30AM-9PM
Costs: £££
Glen Jakes Riding School, a staple in the equestrian scene since 1990, prides itself on creating a welcoming environment where learning to ride is genuinely enjoyable. The place is known for its friendly vibe and instructors who make feel at ease as soon as they hop on a horse.
Situated in a particularly scenic part of Stockport, the school offers a variety of trails that cater to all skill levels, providing tranquil rides for beginners and challenging routes for more seasoned riders.
Practically speaking, Glen Jakes has top-notch facilities including well-maintained stables, indoor and outdoor arenas, and a comfortable viewing area for families to watch their loved ones in action.
| Pro tip: Pop in for a cuppa at their tuck shop and take in a lesson or two from the viewing area—it’s a great spot to relax and see what’s what before you decide to hop on. |
BP Country
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Website: BP Country
Address: Country Lane, Manchester
Contact details: +44 161 888 9999
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 8AM-8PM
Costs: ££
Right, so if you’re after a quick nip out into nature without venturing too far from Manchester, BP Country is your go-to. It’s nestled just on the edge of town, so you can trade the concrete jungle for lush, picturesque trails in a snap.
The place is ace for riders of all stripes; they’ve got calm, gentle horses perfect for beginners just getting their feet wet, and for the seasoned riders, there are plenty of twists and turns along the trails to keep it interesting. What really makes BP Country stand out is the staff.
Facility-wise, they’re sorted with both outdoor and covered arenas, so the unpredictable Manchester weather won’t put a dampener on your day. Plus, they offer group and private sessions, making sure everyone gets the attention they need to really enjoy their ride.
| Pro tip: Their sunset rides are something else—definitely worth booking. There’s nothing quite like watching the sun dip below the horizon from the back of a horse. |
Just Horse Riders
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Website: Just Horse Riders
Address: Horseman Drive
Contact details: +44 161 707 7800
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-7PM
Costs: £££
If you’re dead serious about stepping up your riding game, Just Horse Riders is where it’s at. This place is all about honing your skills and really getting to grips with the sport.
They offer a mix of clinics and intensive sessions focusing on everything from fancy dressage moves to how to stay on when you’re jumping. The instructors here aren’t messing around—they’re here to push you and make sure you get better, all while keeping things upbeat.
The facilities are bang up-to-date, with brilliant indoor and outdoor arenas that mean you can ride rain or shine.
| Pro tip: Get stuck into one of their intensive weekend clinics. It’s a brilliant way to boost your skills fast, and you’ll feel proper chuffed with your progress. |
Big 3 Riding School
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Website: Big 3 Riding School
Address: Big Lane
Contact details: +44 161 902 3030
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-6PM
Costs: £££
Fancy learning to ride or sharpening up your equestrian skills? Head over to Big 3 Riding School. They’ve created a proper community vibe, making everyone from toddlers to grans feel at home.
Whether it’s your first time getting on a horse or you’re an old hand looking to compete, they tailor their lessons to fit your needs. The instructors are dead supportive, always there to give you a leg up—literally.
Plus, they’ve got all the kit: lovely arenas, a snug café to nab a brew after your session, and even group discounts if you bring the family.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of their family package deals. It’s a belting way to spend quality time together and save a few quid. |
Treetop Golf Manchester
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Website: Treetop Golf Manchester
Address: The Printworks, 27 Withy Grove
Contact details: +44 161 832 9805
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-10PM
Costs: £££
Fancy a break from the usual and want a bit of a laugh? Treetop Golf Manchester isn’t your typical riding spot—because it’s not one! Instead, it offers a mad twist on mini-golf, set in a lush, jungle-themed environment right in the heart of Manchester.
Perfect for those days when you want something fun and laid-back but still a bit active. The courses are crammed with creative obstacles and colourful characters that’ll keep you on your toes (and maybe make you lose your ball a time or two).
It’s a cracking place for a date, a family day out, or just a laugh with your mates. And yes, the cocktails are as wild as the decor.
| Pro tip: Don’t rush through the courses. Take your time to enjoy all the quirky details—they’re part of the fun! |
