Name: Willow Farm Riding School
Rating: 5.0

Willow Farm Riding School

Willow Farm, Ormesby Saint Margaret, Great Yarmouth, UK

1-90 Years

Paid

Website

Contact

Message

Description

Willow Farm Riding School is a long-standing, family-friendly equestrian centre that has been a staple of the Norfolk community for over 50 years. Located in the quiet village of Ormesby St Margaret, it offers a welcoming environment for both absolute beginners and seasoned riders to connect with horses and ponies. As a British Horse Society (BHS) approved centre, it is recognized for its high standards of teaching and animal welfare, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Great Yarmouth for those seeking an active outdoor experience.

The school provides a range of affordable riding opportunities, with prices starting from £16.00 for children's group sessions. Whether you are looking for a half-hour introductory lesson or a full private session, the pricing is structured to be accessible for families on various budgets. The centre is particularly well-known for its inclusive atmosphere, welcoming adults and children of all abilities to join their regular classes.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines physical activity with a love for animals, Willow Farm is a fantastic choice. It offers a unique alternative to the typical seaside attractions of Great Yarmouth, allowing visitors to develop new skills in a picturesque rural setting. Its status as a Pony Club Centre further ensures that young riders receive structured and educational guidance that goes beyond just riding.

Features

Paid
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Key Features

Sensory Play & Bonding: Children experience the tactile sensations of grooming and handling ponies, which is excellent for building confidence and sensory awareness.
Interactive Learning: Riders are taught the fundamentals of horse care and riding through hands-on practice, rather than just being led on a horse.
Educational Day Out: As a Pony Club Centre, the school provides structured education on stable management and equine welfare for younger enthusiasts.
Inclusive Training: The school caters to all skill levels, from those who have never touched a horse to advanced riders preparing for BHS exams.

Highlights for Families

The Pony Club Centre: A dedicated space where children can join the official Pony Club and work through different achievement badges and skills.
Stable Management Training: Kids can learn what happens "behind the scenes," including how to tack up a horse and the basics of horse health.
Gymkhana Games: During special events or parties, children can take part in fun, mounted games that test their coordination and speed.
BHS Approved Facilities: Explore the professional arena where riders are taught under the guidance of highly commended BHS instructors.
"Own the Pony" Days: These special holiday sessions allow children to experience the responsibility of having their own pony for a day, including feeding and grooming.

Detailed Inventory

Riding Lessons: Half-hour children's groups, private sessions, and adult classes.
Holiday Courses: Intensive instructional sessions held during school holidays for various skill levels.
Pony Club Activities: Regular meet-ups for members to learn about horse care and earn badges.
Exam Preparation: Specialized training for those looking to take official BHS examinations.
Beyond the Main Attraction: The school is a short 5-minute drive from Scratby Beach and Hemsby Beach, making it easy to pair a morning ride with a seaside afternoon.

Facilities

Onsite Arena: A professional riding space used for all weather conditions.
Parking: Free car parking is available onsite just off Ormesby’s main Yarmouth Road.
Toilets: Onsite facilities are available for riders and their families.

What to see

What Visitors Love

Experienced Instructors: Parents frequently mention the patience and knowledge of the staff, especially when working with nervous beginners.
Well-Mannered Ponies: The horses and ponies are highly praised for being calm, steady, and perfectly suited for children.
Safe Atmosphere: Families appreciate the focus on safety and the professional "no-nonsense" approach to handling large animals.
Community Feel: Long-term visitors love the friendly, non-pretentious environment that has been maintained for over five decades.

What Visitors Don't Like

Limited Booking Slots: Because the school is popular and keeps group sizes small, weekend slots can be difficult to secure without booking far in advance.
Remote Location: It is slightly tucked away, which can be tricky to find for the first time without using a GPS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth it for toddlers?: Standard lessons generally start from age 6, so it may not be suitable for toddlers unless the school is running a specific lead-rein event. For younger children, it is best to call and ask if they have any "taster" sessions for those under six.
How long does a visit take?: Most visits take about an hour and a half, allowing time for your 30-minute or 1-hour lesson plus time to arrive and see the horses afterward. If you are attending a day course, you should plan to be there for several hours.
Where is the best place to park?: The most convenient place to park is the school’s own private car park, which is free and located right next to the stables. This makes it very easy to get children from the car to their lesson safely.
Are there cheap indoor activities in Great Yarmouth?: If the weather turns, Great Yarmouth has several cheap indoor activities such as the Time and Tide Museum or the Sea Life Centre. However, Willow Farm remains one of the best value outdoor activities for active kids in the area.

Book your riding session today! Call 01493 730297 to check availability.

Website

Contact

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Children's Group Class (30 mins): From £16.00
Adult Private Lesson: From £34.00

Pricing URL: https://www.visitgreatyarmouth.co.uk/things-to-do/willow-farm-riding-school-p1381621

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

General Hours: Contact for current session times (typically open for weekend and after-school slots).
Note: Lesson times vary by day and rider ability; pre-booking is mandatory.

Address: Willow Farm, Ormesby Saint Margaret, Great Yarmouth, UK

Post Code: NR29 3QE

Council: Great Yarmouth

County: Norfolk

By Car: Located on Main Road in Ormesby St Margaret, near the junction with Yarmouth Road (NR29 3QE). Free parking is available onsite.
By Bus: Take the local service from Great Yarmouth toward Hemsby; several routes stop within a short walking distance of the school entrance.