Five Stars is not enough. Our 12 year old just had an introductory lesson ( with a wonderful trainer named A). We communicated with this business via text, and I was able to fill out the waivers online. So convenient and easy. We arrived 5 minutes late because I got a little turned around, and my phone/Siri is such a LIAR! I'm the type that needs a flashing sign out front confirming that I'm in the right spot. I appreciate that despite being tardy, we were greeted with a very warm welcome, and her horse was saddled and ready. My daughter's intro lesson provided an opportunity to demonstrate what she knew, and the areas in which she needs to improve and learn new techniques. She absolutely loved every second, and she felt so supported. When an adult is giving direction and complimenting the effort being made, my child's confidence just soars. At the end of the lesson, the horse gets a cookie. What a great way to say Goodbye and Thank You. There has been zero pressure to join/sign up. I need to work some magic with our family calendar, work schedules, and get her officially started. Can't wait for her to continue to learn while feeling sheer joy due to her love of horses. read more

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By far, the most organized place ever! I love that there is a separate, weekly horsemanship class (based on age groups), in addition to regular riding lesson(s). This gives my son the opportunity to socialize, learn, and understand much better about the horses. It also provides social opportunities for parents. Even before I showed up for my son's very first lesson, all expectations on both parties were laid out clearly. I appreciate that as a person without much experience. Other places I had been to had different rules that were not as clear and I couldn't help but to feel a bit lost. Owner Sam is at the ranch all the time and she is super friendly if you have any questions or concerns. Every time we show up for the lessons, horse is tacked and ready to go. Coaches are always on time, professional, and friendly. My son was going to another place for 3 months prior to coming here without much progress. With couple lessons at Billings, we were already seeing progress. Lesson times are set/pre assigned and payments are auto deducted. This may be a pro or con to some but I love that I don't have to worry about making payments on time. There is a quick link to change the card on file or to cancel. There are no hidden fees or other charges. Another bonus!! Lastly, the place itself is amazing and beautifully decorated. From what I have gathered, Billings partnered up with Willow and Wolf ranch. There are plenty lounging areas with nice scenery for you to wait while the lessons are taking place. If you wish to watch, there is a cozy room with a window (and toys!) that you can look onto the arena. Overall, I am elated to have found this place. Without a doubt, I highly recommend Billings equestrian read more

It's cheaper than a therapist and the horse does more for me than any session on a couch has ever done. These ladies are patient and kind - and its a really nice facility. I look forward to many years of catching up on horsemanship. read more

We were fortunate to be referred to Billings in 2019 when I was looking to get my then 4yo horse-obsessed daughter started with lessons. Now here we are, three years later, her confidence, skills and love of horses have all grown and I've joined her at the barn, taking lessons of my own and now leasing a horse. Through it all Sam, Ashley and the entire team have been absolutely incredible. My daughter looks up to girls at the barn and has learned so much about horses, their care and the responsibility that comes with having the privilege of spending time with these magical animals. Meanwhile I've found a team of kind and supportive mentors as I'm learning my way around this new-to-me world. We could not have found a better school or barn, it's become such an important part of our lives and we're so grateful for the people there that have made it our happy place. read more

Sam and Ashley are so nice! I walked in for my trial lesson last week and was greeted by multiple people! Everyone at the barn is so nice. I'm very excited to start my new adventure here! read more

My granddaughter started lessons a little over a month ago and she loves it. Wonderful atmosphere, knowledgeable instructors and horses well cared for. Highly recommended. read more

My 13-year old daughter has been taking lessons here for almost two years. She loves it and has improved so much. She has done both group lessons and private, it is awesome you can have a choice. Ashley is her main instructor and she is patient and encouraging. All the instructors have been great. We had a prior experience at another barn that did not go so well, so when the spot opened up here, we were pleasantly surprised that it was a totally different experience. read more

Update: I can't believe that anyone would give Billings Equestrian a bad review which I why I must add to mine! My daughter has now been riding with Sam for 2 years. She started when she was 4 and is about to turn 7. Sam is the most kind and caring woman and is extremely professional. She takes great pride in her business and is so easy to work with when it comes to scheduling etc. I really can't tell you how much of a role Sam and the horses play in our daughters life and what a positive role model Sam is for young girls. Not to mention she operates her business out of the most amazing equestrian facility in the Livermore valley! We are truly blessed to have our daughter ride under Sam's instruction. This review is long overdue!! My daughter Emma has been riding with Sam for a little over a year now. Sam is an amazing teacher and person in general. She has an abundance of patience for my daughter and truly loves what she does. Emma has progressed so much in 1 year going from riding on a lead to now riding all by herself and working on her technique. Emma's love for horses is nurtured by Sam every week. It is truly the best part of both my and Emma's week being up at the barn with Sam and the horses! read more

When we were looking for a place to start horseback riding lessons for my daughter, we tried out many different barns, and I mean MANY. My daughter and her friend loved this barn and Sam was amazing from the first day. Both girls loved everything about their trial lesson and decided stay with Billings Equestrian. They have been taking lessons with Sam for about four months now and absolutely love it every single time. The arena is quiet and peaceful and dog friendly! Samantha is always extremely nice and patient with girls, teaching them a lot every time they go. Horses are well trained and well behaved for beginners and I assume for experienced riders too (we are not there yet :-) I have never had any scheduling issues or any other inconveniences. I would highly recommend to come and meet Sam if you are looking for horseback riding lessons. read more

Billings Equestrian - Enjoying the time with Pepper. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Pleasanton, California

I've been training with Sam for a year and have learned so much. The program is laid back and fun while still great prep for showing. Fantastic dressage program for adults and children alike. Beautiful facility and an all around fun experience! Thanks to Sam and her wonderful staff!!! read more

I can't speak enough wonderful words about Billings. Sam is fantastic, it's a beautiful barn, they are fabulous with children and they do a great job of bulking a community. We've been to other barns in the area and Billings is by far the best there is. read more

Our 9 year old daughter wanted horse back riding lessons, so we randomly gave this place a try. What a find! Sam(antha) is amazing. She works so well with our daughter. In just 4 lessons our daughter has learned to ride and care for a horse. It's the highlight of her week. I'm almost hesitant to leave a review on Yelp because I don't want the place getting swamped, but I feel guilty not letting others know about Sam and her ability to teach people how to ride a horse. If you are thinking of riding, be sure to give this place a call! read more

Billings Equestrian - Horseback Riding Near Me - Pleasanton, California

Billings Equestrian was recommended to me as a fantastic children's program. It has turned out to be much, much more than that. Samantha has given my children a voice, from talking about the books that they bring to read at the barn to asking what that want to achieve each session. Whether it's going through a dressage test on Knightime to cantering on Pepper, Samantha empowers them to achieve their goals. My eldest daughter qualified as a USEF lettering athlete at Billings Equestrian. Samantha has taken her to Junior Championships with Knightime and together they have come 5th overall at First Level and 1st overall in the team event. We are now leasing a pony. They are currently working on 2nd level together! My youngest daughter is fearless. Ashley, Samantha's assistant, has taught her how to ride with confidence at 2 years old and she has nurtured her love of riding beyond measure. My toddler is now practicing vaulting on the most gentle and trustworthy horses at Billings Equestrian. For my part, I'm so grateful to always have a horse in full time training at at Billings Equestrian. The facility, Eagle Point Equestrian, is amazing! Gundi, the owner, has generously designed and built everything for her own horses so it is all of the highest quality from the footing in the arena to spacious paddocks and therapeutic amenities, everything has been customized with the health and comfort of the horses in mind. Together Gundi and Samantha organize fabulous clinics and schooling shows for their clients, opportunities to learn and grow are abundant. Samantha is an exceptional rider and teacher. Samantha recently earned sponsorship by the best Custom Saddlery expert, who fits all my saddles. Each of the horses receive wonderful care tailored to their specific needs and what is remarkable is that Samantha takes the time to learn how each horse likes to be ridden and she develops a gymnastic training schedule accordingly. She treats each horse as an intelligent being and is sympathetic to its past training and experiences, this truly transforms the horse into a willing athletic partner. read more

I have been riding with Sam the last five years and have nothing but great things to say! Sam is a very experienced rider and wants nothing but the best for her clients. I would highly recommend Sam and her staff for anyone who is interested in riding! read more

Sammy is a amazing teacher! She has so much passion for not only the horses but teach the kids the RIGHT technique! I highly recommend her to everyone. read more

We met Sammy (Samantha) when my 6 year old son wanted to give horse back riding a try. What a great idea that was! Sam has patiently taught him horsemanship and we have since added our 2 girls to the lessons. They look forward to seeing Sammy and the horses, and take pride in every single achievement no matter how small. Sam is incredibly patient and knowledgeable and incredibly professional. I am truly amazed at how she handles all three little ones with such grace. She loves to teach, and it is reflected upon her students. I've told my fiends about Billings Equestrian, and now I'm sharing with you! read more

Billings Equestrian - Billings Equestrian - Horseback Riding Near Me - Pleasanton, California

I almost forgot about this small business owner until my daughter started horse riding again this summer. The owner of this location is very unprofessional and rude to both the rider and parents. After 2 years of taking lessons: Around 9a on the day we had a lesson she texted to say she had to cancel, so we rebooked without asking questions why. Since the day we rebooked to, was my day in the office, I asked my parents - 65 year+ to take my daughter. They arrived 18 mins late, cause they are old! When they came to the stable, she rudely told my elderly dad it was too late, she then called me and told me I owe her the entire fee for the lesson. When I asked her why she could not just give the lesson for the 40 mins, she became extremely rude and defensive. My daughter has mentioned since then how she would snap at her if she brushed the horses hair the wrong way - my 7 year old! Just another lazy millennial!!! read more

I have been a student at Billings Equestrian for 5 years this coming October -- it has been the perfect program for me. Samantha helped me to get "back in the saddle" after not riding for over 25 years. Then, she helped me to locate my dream horse when I was ready to take the plunge and have my own horse again. What I enjoy most about Sam is that she has the patience and skills to work with an older adult amateur like myself (including navigating my aches and pains) -- but she is also so terrific with all the kids in her program. I love being at the barn and seeing the young kids having so much fun learning all about horses and riding -- she teaches them safe and compassionate horsemanship skills that will serve them for a lifetime! Highly recommend Sam, her horses, her location and her program! read more

Billings Equestrian is where it's at! The business owner, Samantha is one of the hardest working and most dedicated people I've ever known. She is passionate about her career and it shows in everything she does. Sam is not only a very experienced and knowledgeable rider, but she is an excellent coach and trainer. Her patience and upbeat personality make every lesson fun and rewarding while always keeping safety at the forefront. A lesson with Sam leaves me with a sense of accomplishment and a desire to return and work harder at mastering the skills. Whether you ride english or western, look no further than Billings Equestrian. Sam and her staff display unparalleled professionalism and I would recommend them to riders of all ages. read more

Billings Equestrian is an amazing place for kids to start a lifelong passion for horses. The kids learn how to groom and take care of horses, they can choose between english or western style riding, they have fun and are in a positive and kind environment. Regarding the 1-star review by Marin M. dd 9/4/2019: There is always two sides to every story. This ex-client got her feelings hurt when she was advised that her behavior (for which she APOLOGIZED in writing) is not tolerated on my property. Local barn owners and kid-riding-lesson programs beware of Marin; she will try to hackle you on your prices, arrive late (up to 30 min) to her kids' lessons, yell at your staff, and tell you how to teach her 2 year old. Amongst other things. read more

Very unhappy with her unprofessional behavior! Left before the lesson was over stating that she had to get her horse ready for a clinic! Left in charge an 8th grader and a 17 year old girl who did not have the skills or the finesse of conducting a lesson. Save your $$$! She is very immature and lack the skills necessary for delivering success. Absolutely pathetic business conduct! read more

Our son absolutely loves his weekly horseback riding lessons with Sammy! She's great with kids and is a wonderful teacher. We've since met many of the other children who take lessons with Sammy and all the parents love her as do the kids. I would highly recommend Billings Equestrian. read more