For the uninitiated, when it comes to leisure in London, riding a horse is never going to be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet for many who indulge in trotting or galloping through Richmond Park - a stunning 2,500 acre Royal Park in the south west of the capital - it often tops their list of pleasurable experiences in England’s glorious and endlessly surprising megacity. Learning to ride is undeniably one of life’s greatest joys, so why not do it in one of the world’s greatest cities. Horse riding has in fact been a deeply cherished activity within Richmond Park for centuries, and horses were absolutely critical to the park’s establishment by King Charles I in 1637. In this era, and for many centuries, riding was an everyday essential. These days, the motor car reigns - and so sitting astride a beautiful horse is unadulterated recreation. At Richmond Park, you’ll get fresh air, open space, pretty paths, and a deeper connection with nature. Here is our guide to getting started.
Best Routes
Richmond Park is blessed with an impressive 13 miles of bridle paths and riding routes, which wind and twist enticingly through a range of diverse landscapes: open grasslands, sparkling lakes, and woodland trails. From these routes, there is also a feast of wonderfully contrasting views; some towards the epic London skyline, some over what feels like open countryside. Pen Ponds Path is particularly popular, a peaceful trail along the iconic ponds in the centre of Richmond Park. Sheen Cross represents a slightly more demanding route, taking in open grassland and wide, panoramic (and highly rewarding) views. Robin Hood Gate Path is a charming route, snaking through shaded wooded areas and some open fields from one of the park’s entrances. The terrain can get a little challenging at times, especially when the ground is wet, but instructors will always take the lead and steer clear of inaccessible areas. The Sawyer’s Hill route is just stunning - gently sloping paths and views of St Paul’s Cathedral in the distance on clear days. Remember, these bridleways are clearly marked and exclusive to horse riders, so it’s actually a premium experience: a breathtaking way in which to enjoy the famous deer herds, ancient trees, and majestic views of London from this historic park.
Practical Considerations
Riders of all levels are actively encouraged to experience horse riding in Richmond Park, from complete beginners through to borderline experts (and everything in between). Riders need a permit to access the bridleways, but most stables include this in their service - and Richmond Park has a range of well-established stables on hand, which cater to almost any equine-rider requirements you can think of. The common view is that the best time to ride is early mornings or late afternoons for a quieter, more serene experience (and early weekday mornings in the summer are a particularly popular choice, sometimes for those who want a borderline utopian ride, before the world is fully awake). Autumn and spring can be deeply rewarding seasons - with the changing leaves of trees up high, or a carpet of blooming wildflowers around your horse’s hooves - but deer safety is a big factor: rutting and birthing seasons must be avoided. Stables will provide expert guidance on this.
Rental Providers & Options
To ride at Richmond Park, you’ll need to book with one of the four approved stables that use the parkland for a range of private lessons and ‘hacking’ (meaning a non-competitive, leisurely horse ride for fun or exercise). All of them are of an excellent standard, so it’s simply a matter of what suits you best. Stag Lodge Stables has a comprehensive offering, with private and group lessons and courses for children (from three upwards) and adults of all ages, and all abilities. It’s been here a very long time - founded in 1790 - and prides itself on the good nature and temperament of its 70-plus horses. Stag Lodge even offers Pony Week Courses for children during every school holiday, and the options available via its broad range of Adult Riding Courses is impressive - as are its dedicated team of qualified instructors. Barnfield Riding School is passionate about teaching riders of all ages and abilities to share their love of horses and believes there is much to learn from the horses themselves. Hacking through Richmond Park with them takes place every day except Monday, according to demand, and rides usually last between an hour or two. New riders will need an assessment lesson before booking a hack, which is fairly commonplace. Longer hacks go out every Sunday morning from 8.30am. Wimbledon Village Stables even has its own interactive ‘Equicise’ horse simulator, a cornerstone training method situated in a fully equipped studio. It’s just perfect for those who need to build up confidence and fitness before heading out in the open air on a four-legged friend. Operation Centaur is a tactful Petersham stables that offers everything you need for rides through Richmond Park; they also focus heavily on equine-assisted psychotherapy with great expertise and care.
The deep tradition of equestrian activity in Richmond Park is alive and kicking. Horses are just fundamental, and for the lucky souls riding them, there is something special about this surprisingly accessible adventure. With breathtaking views, and a majestic beast beneath you, there is perhaps no better way to unwind so close to the thrill of England’s capital city.
