Horse Riding

Enjoy riding in the attractive surroundings of Matlock Farm Park, with views over to Riber Castle.

The Matlock Farm Park Riding School & Trekking Centre offers qualified horse riding lessons as well as pony trekking. Scenic farmland, adjoining beautiful forests and a purpose built arena provides extensive riding facilities for all. Pre-booking is essential and we advise to book as well in advance as possible.

Weekend 1hr lesson

One hour of group horse-riding tuition in our arena

*Block bookings of 5 group lessons are available at a discounted price of £150. To take advantage of this offer, bookings must be made in advance and payment made in full.

£33*

Weekday Trek

One hour of riding within a group

One hour of trekking in forest and farmland with lead support for those booking of beginner ability.

£50

Weekday private lesson

One hour of private horse-riding in our arena

A lesson tailor made to suit your ability level

£55

All prices include FREE entry into Matlock Farm Park for the rider for the day (plus one accompanying adult for under 16s). Guests accompanying a rider who is over 16 years are required to pay standard farm park entry.

Riders must arrive at least 15 minutes before their riding experience and they must have completed the rider registration form before commencing riding.

Full payment is required at the time of booking and payment is via cash or debit/credit card. 48 hours’ notice is required to cancel a lesson or hack and refunds cannot be given when cancellations occur within this time period. Prices are subject to change.

For all bookings and queries, please email riding@matlockfarmpark.co.uk

The Advantages of Horse-Riding!

Riding is one of Britain's fastest growing sports.

As well as improving confidence and emotional well-being, there's no better feeling than to be at one riding with your horse! It is a lovely outdoor hobby to have and taking up riding is a great way to meet new friends with a mutual interest.

Horse-riding provides a great work ethic for kids and teenagers!

Did you know you can be a volunteer within our riding school from 13 years? Simply email riding@matlockfarmpark.co.uk for more information.

Other information

It is important to wear a boot or a shoe with a small heel. Gloves are a good idea, especially for the younger children with softer hands, as well as a waterproof coat. Hats are provided at first, but we do recommend that you purchase your own hat and jodhpurs if you decide that you are really keen. Leggings are also suitable for riding.
The recommended minimum age for riding lessons is 4 years old (our short pony rides at weekends and school holidays start at 3 years old, or 2.5 years when a parent/carer walks alongside the young rider).
Lessons and treks are available all year round.
On site café and toilet facilities (Matlock Farm Park).
Free car parking.

Short Pony Rides

Pony rides are available every day at selected times (weather permitting), during morning and/or afternoon slots and do not require pre-booking. Two laps around our purpose-built paddock provides a lovely, gentle introduction to riding for little ones. These are for riders from 3 years plus, or from 2.5 years if a parent/carer walks alongside the rider and instructor.

Simply purchase your token for £3.50 at our entrance or in our shop. Pony rides are then available on a 'first come, first served basis'.

The Animal Welfare (Licencing of Activities Involving Animals)
(England) Regulations 2018

License to Hire out Horses
Licence Holder - Ridegway Riding School
Licence Number - 18/15120/ANIMAL

Our horses and ponies

There is a good selection of well-mannered horses and ponies to suit all ages and abilities.

Lessons and treks are led by highly experienced, friendly instructors. Riding is available Thursdays to Sundays and some extra days during peak periods.

Matlock Farm Park Riding School
Jaggers Lane, Matlock DE4 5LH
Tel: 01246 590200

For booking enquiries please email riding@matlockfarmpark.co.uk, remembering to include your phone number, and we will respond as soon as possible.