Which equestrian centre in Kent for children

[Malbec79]

Hi, I am looking to find a equestrian centre for my daughter. She is only 3 so key factors are obviously its suitability for young children and safety.

Of course at this at this age it will be no more than a pony ride and maybe some grooming however I would like to start this journey in the right place.

Any input from people with first hand experience would be greatly appreciated.

Most places won’t take children younger than 4 due to insurance

Kent is a very large county - can you be more specific?

If you are anywhere near West Kent, I can help, but have no idea further East!

Yes sorry we are based in Shorne and are happy to drive 20-25 minutes so West Kent, i.e. no further east than Maidstone, no further south than Sevenoaks and can include Bromley / Orpington.

Ah, I would have said that is North Kent! I was going to suggest Little Forest Ponies near Cowden as they are set up for little children, but it's going to be too far I think.

Callum Park nr Sittingbourne has a good reputation but I’m not sure it takes children that young .

Thank you both. Yes unfortunately south of Sevenoaks would be a little too far. I was looking at Mount Mascal until I read some less than glowing reviews. The only other place I thought may be suitable was Chelsfield.

At my daughters young age I know it will only be pony rides and perhaps some other interaction and activities however I still think it is worthwhile as she loves being around horses.

Actually I’ve just checked and Callum Park do take children from 3 and apparently were the first riding school in the UK licensed to do so .

Thank you Floralnomad, I will take a look at Callum Park - do you have first hand experience?

We used

Don’t know what happened there ! My daughter rode there as a small child many years ago and I know the same people still run it and I know of them through years of horse ownership in the same area .

God Mount Mascals is awful. Terrible welfare issues.

I've heard good things about Squirrels and as a PP suggested Callum Park has a good rep.

DS has had two half-hour private lessons at Chelsfield within the last six months (when he was 3.9 and 4). He’s rather hit and miss with new things and new people, but he warmed to both the instructors and had very positive first experiences The second time, the instructor even got him to try a little trot and he loved it!

I wish I could take him there more often but we’re in south London and I don’t drive.

Hi we r going to a centre which I believe is near you - it is near Shorne Woods Country Park, called Knights Farm Equestrian.

My LO started walkout from 3 yrs old and proper lesson from 4 - she loves it !