Out in the cold on a bright February morning is no place for a woman of creature comforts like myself, but I'm willing to make an exception if that morning is spent at this excellent equestrian centre. Spacious, well maintained and with in-and-outdoor riding rings, this is the place to go for introductions, refreshers or Olympic-grade riding lessons. Each grouping is managed well by centre staff and experienced students -watching a group of under-tens take their first few trots around an indoor ring, I was delighted by the positive encouragement of the instructor (and the high level of safety -lead holders for every horse waiting to help, protective vests and helmets all around... I don't remember all that in my horse camps!). Prices for adult instruction hover around the €30 mark. €32 for an assessment and a prepay 12 lesson package comes to about €27 per session. Kids Pony Play 40 minute sessions are just €20 and can be scheduled lesson by lesson - a great way to get a kid in the saddle without committing to more sessions than they might want. The centre isn't just for instruction though, and a brisk trade in horse-themed parties, day camps, shows and other horse-related activities. The community that's grown up around the venue is positively encouraged with canteen and cafe facilities, outdoor areas for picnics, plus an open and spotless livery barn where horses and ponies are stabled between riding sessions (and always appreciative of a well-mannered hello and gift of apples or hay). In better weather I'll be up here with boots and helmet on, till then I'll huddle on the sidelines! read more

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