Is your child horse-mad? Why not sign them up for a pony club this summer, where they can have fun and learn more about caring for horses? We’ve put together five of the best clubs where children can take part in activities including riding, jumping and trail rides.

Shetland Pony Club in Surrey

Children aged 5-10 years can enjoy a week with their very own pony. Along with riding sessions, they will learn how to care for them and bond with them through horse whispering and natural horsemanship techniques. Some days are themed and include activities like paddling on horseback and being cowboys and cowgirls. The club is passionate about caring for their ponies and ensuring children learn about these beautiful animals. 

Valley Farm Riding Holiday in Suffolk

Pony clubs are a great way for kids to learn about horse care and to ride while spending time outdoors. The Valley Farm Riding Holiday offers kids an educational holiday experience in a safe environment and is suitable for all abilities. Children aged 6 to 16 can participate in all-inclusive residential pony camps for 5 days, where they will improve their riding and horse care skills. Activities include show jumping, horseball (basketball on horseback), hacking, horse care and much more. In the evenings there are opportunities to make friends around the campfire. 

Rein & Shine Pony Camp in Wiltshire

Rein & Shine Pony Camp offers a wide range of activities that help children foster a love of horses. Running daily from 9:30am-3pm, activities include group riding lessons and stable routines, games and dressage activities.  There’s also grooming and horse care sessions, so campers are exposed to all aspects of horsemanship. At the end of the week there’s a show jumping competition, with rosettes given out. 

Stag Lodge Stables Pony Course in London

Suited to children aged five to twelve, this course is based in London’s stunning Richmond Park. Not only do kids get stable management lessons, but they are also actively involved in all aspects of horsemanship and equine care. On the Friday, there are themed competitions, which are a lot of fun and give children a chance to show off their skills. The course is open to children of all levels of experience so everyone can enjoy a summer of horse riding.

Carrington Riding Centre Holiday Club in Manchester

The Carrington Riding Centre Holiday Club is the perfect starting place for anyone interested in horses and riding. The club caters to children up to 16 and offers high-quality riding and stable management sessions. The experienced staff ensures that all riders receive the best possible instruction and progress at a safe and steady pace. This makes the Carrington Riding Centre Holiday Club the ideal choice for any child who wants to learn more about horse riding.

These are five of the best summer pony clubs for children. Each offers a unique opportunity for kids to learn about horses and horsemanship while having a great time. So if your child is interested in ponies, check out one of these excellent pony clubs.

Photo by Oană Andrei