Island Riding Centre
About this yard
Island Riding Centre opened in July 2017 at Mersley Farm near Newport and has established itself as the Isle of Wight's most complete equestrian facility. It holds ABRS+ approval as a riding school, livery yard and equine assisted services provider, and is registered on the Human Equine Interaction Register, the only centre on the island to hold this combination of accreditations.
Facilities are genuinely impressive for an island setting. The indoor sand school measures 60m x 25m with a wax fibre surface, providing year-round all-weather riding. The outdoor school is 60m x 40m with the same quality surface, spectator bank, seating area and floodlighting for evening sessions. Over two miles of maintained hacking tracks run around the perimeter of the 50-acre site, with beach and trail hacks available off-site.
Accessibility is a core principle here. Island Riding Centre holds the RDA Accessibility Mark and is home to the island's only para hoist, alongside a fully equipped Changing Places toilet, making it one of the most genuinely accessible equestrian centres in the south of England. The centre is also a Pony Club Centre.
For visiting riders and holidaymakers, the on-site complex includes self-catering cottages and glamping safari tents, a café and restaurant, and a children's playground. Riding options range from Tots Taster Sessions (a 20-minute introduction with rosette for children) through to private lessons, group activities, own-a-pony days, birthday parties and beach hacks. Sessions run from age 4.
Facilities
Arena information
Pricing
From £20/hr
Tots Taster Sessions, private lessons, group activities and own-a-pony days available. Beach and trail hacks for suitable riders. Contact for current pricing and availability.
Frequently asked questions
Do they take beginners?
What's parking like?
How much does an hour lesson cost?
Are there facilities for nervous riders?
Can my child have a birthday party there?
Is the facility accessible for all ages?
What to wear
Standard guidance for equestrian yards in the UK. Check with your yard if you're unsure.
An approved riding hat is required for all riders. The centre can advise on appropriate hat standards when you book.
Boots or shoes with a heel must be worn. Trainers and flat-soled shoes are not permitted.
Comfortable, close-fitting clothing suitable for riding. Long trousers are recommended. Bare shoulders and shorts are not permitted.
Long hair should be tied back securely before mounting.
Clients arriving in unsuitable clothing or footwear may not be permitted to ride, for their own safety. If in doubt, contact the yard before your visit.
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