Rain in the forecast? No problem. These six London riding schools all have fully covered arenas—so lessons, hacks, and pony days go ahead even when the skies turn grey. If you’re just starting out or planning lessons during the colder months, indoor arenas can be a game-changer.
Use this guide to find a centre that suits your level, location, and budget. And if you're looking for a broader overview (including outdoor options), check out our 10 Best Riding Schools in London for Beginners blog.
Navigation
- Trent Park Equestrian Centre
- Lee Valley Riding Centre
- London Equestrian Centre
- Docklands Equestrian Centre
- Dulwich Riding School
- Kingston Riding Centre
Where are these indoor arenas in London?
- Trent Park Equestrian Centre — East Pole Farmhouse, Bramley Rd, London N14 4UW
- Lee Valley Riding Centre — 71 Lea Bridge Rd, London E10 7QL
- London Equestrian Centre — Lullington Garth, Finchley N12 7BP
- Docklands Equestrian Centre — 2 Clapsgate Lane, Beckton E6 6JF
- Dulwich Riding School — Dulwich Common, London SE21 7EX
- Kingston Riding Centre — 38 Crescent Rd, Kingston upon Thames KT2 7RG
1. Trent Park Equestrian Centre — Enfield N14
-
Indoor School – Two arenas (25 × 60 m & 18 × 60 m) with spectator seating.
-
Outdoor & Extras – Three flood-lit rings, cross-country fences, 12 mi woodland hacks.
-
Starter Prices – Beginner group £47 (45 min) • Private £80 (45 min).
-
Need-to-Know – Weeknight slots fill fast; book 1–2 weeks ahead in darker months.
2. Lee Valley Riding Centre — Leyton E10
_11zon.webp?width=803&height=452&name=dfbgirurxxkapotzgz3n%20(1)_11zon.webp)
-
Indoor School – 40 × 20 m enclosed arena, fully lit.
-
Outdoor & Extras – Two flood-lit arenas, XC field, show-jumps, interactive horse simulator.
-
Starter Prices – “Have-a-Go” 30 min £30 (kids) / £35 (adults) • Private 45 min from £67 (off-peak).
-
Need-to-Know – Free on-site parking for stress-free arrivals
3. London Equestrian Centre — Finchley N12
-
Indoor School – Spacious covered arena linked to a cosy café.
-
Outdoor & Extras – Olympic-length arena, two practice rings, full show-jump set.
-
Starter Prices – Private 30 min ≈ £60 • Semi-private 45 min £72 pp.
-
Need-to-Know – 90 kg max; Sunday pony days require early booking.
4. Docklands Equestrian Centre — Beckton E6
-
Indoor School – 20 × 60 m flood-lit arena with RDA-adapted ramp.
-
Outdoor & Extras – All-weather 20 × 40 m ring, classroom, volunteer-for-lesson scheme.
-
Starter Prices – Kids group 30 min £20 • Adult group 30 min £25.
-
Need-to-Know – £3 pony laps (ages 3–5) sell out by Friday—call early.
5. Dulwich Riding School — Dulwich SE21
-
Indoor School – Covered arena sized for six-rider groups.
-
Outdoor & Extras – Ménage for larger classes; free hat and boot loan.
-
Starter Prices – Private 45 min £47 • Group 60 min £37.
-
Need-to-Know – New-rider waiting list runs about seven months.
6. Kingston Riding Centre — Kingston KT2
-
Indoor School – Olympic-length 20 × 60 m arena with mirrors.
-
Outdoor & Extras – 55 × 35 m arena, show-jump course, gate to Richmond Park tracks.
-
Starter Prices – Children’s group 1 h £63 (weekday).
-
Need-to-Know – Currently children-only; adults can join a standby list.
FAQs
Do London riding schools cancel for rain?
If a yard has an indoor arena (all six above do), lessons almost always proceed—heavy snow or high winds are the main exceptions.
What should I wear for an indoor lesson?
Long stretchy trousers and a shoe with a small heel; the school will lend you a safety-rated riding hat and, where needed, boots.
How far ahead should I book?
Winter evenings and weekend mornings are peak times. Aim for two weeks’ notice (longer for Dulwich). Mid-day weekday slots often have next-day availability.