Bask in the beautiful surroundings of New South Wales on horseback, with a variety of great riding destinations all around Sydney. You’ll find picturesque trails, lessons for beginners and pony rides for kids, with something to suit all levels. If you are looking for the ideal locations for horse riding in Sydney, this will be your go-to guide.
1. Sydney Horse Riding Centre
The Sydney Horse Riding Centre is located in scenic Badger’s Creek, less than an hour’s drive from Sydney’s CBD. The grounds are set on 200 acres of picturesque riding trails, with a further 500 acres of land to explore if you’d like a longer equestrian experience. Sydney Horse Riding Centre offers a number of services including riding lessons, corporate days, tour groups, pony parties, and horses for wedding photography and photo shoots.
VISIT: Sydney Horse Riding Centre
3. Papillon Riding Stables
A short drive from Sydney’s CBD, the Papillon Riding Stables offers dressage lessons for all levels, from total beginners to highly skilled professionals. They run guided tours in the stunningly ornamental Centennial Park as well as a variety of activities for kids. The centre also provides onsite veterinary service and feed stalls. After a unique gift for your loved one? The Papillon Stables offer gift vouchers for all of their ride options.
VISIT: Papillon Riding Stables
3. Sydney Hills Horse Riding Centre
Located in Dural, the Sydney Hills Horse Riding Centre offers a variety of horse riding experiences for the equestrian enthusiast in you. Popular choices include group and private lessons, school holiday camps, a junior riding club and pony parties. The facilities at Sydney Hills include two separate riding areas, an all-new dressage arena and games and showjumping areas. They have well-trained horses and ponies to ensure riders of all levels feel safe and comfortable.
VISIT: Sydney Hills Horse Riding Centre
4. Scenic NSW Horse Riding Centre
Scenic NSW Horse Riding Centre provides an incredible equestrian experience situated in the bushlands of Denham Court. Located only 45 minutes from the CBD, the company offers hour-long tours for beginners on the ornamental farm. Or, if you have a little more experience, you can try the advanced trail ride. Scenic NSW also offers day camps and birthday party packages, where children are able to ride, feed and groom the horses
VISIT: Scenic NSW Horse Riding Centre
5. Terrey Hills Riding School
Terrey Hills Riding School is located in the tranquil surrounds of the Duffys Forest area. Offering both lessons and holiday programs, Terrey Hills Riding School provides an experience where you not only learn riding skills, but also spend time grooming, saddling, and handling the horses. Terrey Hills specialises in beginner groups and after-school children’s groups. General riding instruction, dressage, show jumping lessons, and trail rides are also available.
VISIT: Terrey Hills Riding School
6. Centennial Parklands Equestrian Centre
A visit to Sydney would not be complete without a horse ride in the stunning Centennial Parklands. It is one of the few parks globally to provide horse riding in the inner-city. The Centennial Parklands Equestrian Centre allows the residents of Sydney and their tourists to enjoy a truly unique equestrian experience. Equine facilities include a covered lunge yard, three arenas, stables (both inside pavilions and outdoors), sand rolls, wash bay facilities and on-site float parking.
VISIT: Centennial Parklands Equestrian Centre
7. Hidden Valley
Nestled in the Ourimbah State Forest, Hidden Valley provides family-friendly horse agistment and horse riding. Their facilities are perfect for cross country riding, trail rides and pony leads for those who are just starting out. Still not convinced? Hidden Valley also offers secluded accommodation set on 320 acres of picture-perfect farmland, with amenities including a swimming pool, tennis court and petting zoo.
8. Sahara Trails Horse Riding
Sahara Trails Horse Riding offers equestrian experiences for all types of riders, from the absolute amateur to the incredibly experienced. Indulge in one of their guided trails and bask in the serenity of Port Stephens. The destination makes for a great holiday spot, with so many local gems to explore. With over 35 years of local knowledge, Sahara Trails can not only provide you with an enjoyable equestrian experience but also a guide to the best tourist spots around Port Stephens.
VISIT: Sahara Trails Horse Riding
9. Yarrabin Holiday Ranch
Yarrabin is one of Australia’s most popular trail riding destinations. If you are the type of person who loves nature and the smell of fresh country air, then this is the place for you. The ranch has a variety of forest trails and open paddocks to choose from. Yarrabin also offers beautiful country-style accommodation with amenities like a tennis court, pool and spa.
10. Kangaroo Valley Horse Riding
Kangaroo Valley Horse Riding provides a horse riding experience like no other, with trails running through the gorgeous Southern Highlands. Their property is home to some of the most beautiful views out into Moreton National Park and over the Kangaroo River. Plus, with great accommodation on offer, you can stay a little longer and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
VISIT: Kangaroo Valley Horse Riding
FAQs
Is horse riding an expensive hobby?
Horse riding can be an expensive hobby. Lessons at a school or stable generally cost around $130 per hour, and you do need to buy or hire specialist equipment such as helmets and boots.
How much does it cost to ride a horse?
Group horse riding lessons cost an average of $130 per hour, while private lessons can be between $150 and $200 per hour.
How much do you have to weigh to go horseback riding?
Ideally, a horse shouldn’t carry more than 20% of its body weight; otherwise, it becomes a welfare and safety issue. As such, most stables implement a weight limit of around 80 to 100 kilos (175-220 pounds). There’s generally no minimum weight for horse riding. However, always check with the relevant school or stable before making any bookings.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our mailing list and get interesting stuff and updates to your email inbox.
Thank you for subscribing.
Something went wrong.
