The Best British Boarding Schools for Riding : von Bülow’s Top 5

Riding has a long tradition in Britain – and you can feel it not just at competitions. Many English boarding schools maintain a vibrant equestrian culture with highly trained instructors, dedicated teams, and excellent facilities. Riding and academic education go hand in hand here: alongside rigorous academics, many schools also offer first-class riding programmes, either with their own equestrian centres or through close partnerships with renowned stables nearby.

 What’s special: there’s no long commute to lessons – the facilities are either on campus or within walking distance. Students who wish to bring their own horse can usually stable it at school without difficulty. But even without a horse of their own, everything is in place to make riders’ hearts beat faster: from first riding lessons to targeted talent development and all the way to competing in national tournaments. Pupils benefit from high-quality instruction, modern equipment, and a structured programme that combines academic and sporting excellence.

The advantages of English riding boarding schools:

• Beginners learn to ride from scratch under professional conditions.
• Advanced riders receive individual coaching and high-level support, both academically and athletically.
• Disciplines range from dressage, show jumping, and eventing to polo, cross-country, or even Western riding.
• Lessons and training take place under optimal conditions with well-schooled horses.
• Instructors are experienced professionals, often successful competitors themselves.
• Guest trainers of international calibre bring fresh input into the training programme.
• Riding is fully integrated into daily school life – no long commutes or complicated logistics.
• Daily interaction with horses fosters responsibility, empathy, and self-confidence.
• Riding supports cognitive skills, focus, and strategic thinking.
• Pupils regularly compete at local, national, or international level.
• The combination of sport and structured routines is the perfect balance to academic life.
• Scholarships for riders as well as academic awards are available at many schools.

Our favourites among the top schools for riding:

Dean Close School

At Dean Close, riding is part of everyday school life – regardless of ability. Whether a complete beginner or a competitive rider, the programme is open to all. Training takes place during term-time at nearby Tumpy Green Equestrian Centre, known for its excellent facilities and friendly atmosphere. Dedicated riders can apply for an Equestrian Scholarship, which includes tailored training plans, athletic support, and membership in the Foundation Squad. Pupils may bring their own horse or ride from the school’s pool. Dean Close teams regularly compete successfully at national level, including major events such as the NSEA Finals in dressage, show jumping, and eventing. A highlight: the school’s own Interschools Show Jumping Event, with some 200 riders from over 40 schools.

Mayfield School

At Mayfield, riding is firmly embedded in the school day. The equestrian centre lies directly on campus – a huge advantage, as daily contact with the horses is easily integrated into the timetable. Riding lessons, stable management, and horse care are all part of the programme. Pupils can bring their own horse or take part in the school’s loan scheme. Beginners can start with certified BHS lessons at a nearby stable, always supported by the Mayfield team. Highly motivated riders may qualify for the Equestrian Squad, training at an advanced level with opportunities for international competition – always with the aim of balancing performance with passion.

 Stonar School

Stonar School in Wiltshire is one of the most established equestrian schools in the country. Its own equestrian centre with around 65 stables is superbly equipped and allows individual development at every level. From first vaulting lessons to international competition preparation – everything is possible. The school offers not only excellent training but also theory lessons and one-to-one guidance from competition-experienced coaches. Students may bring their own horse or ride one from the school. Stonar is particularly renowned for its success in eventing and show jumping and is known for balancing sporting ambition with academic excellence.

 Millfield School

Millfield is one of Britain’s most sports-focused schools – and its equestrian programme is no exception. The centre has nearly 100 stables for both school and privately owned horses, plus multiple arenas and indoor schools built to the highest standards. The emphasis is on high-performance training, tailored to students who already compete or aspire to reach the top levels of the sport. Polo is also part of the programme. A special highlight: the school regularly hosts its own eventing competitions with over 600 participants. The coaching team consists of professionals with national and international experience. Millfield is the place for ambitious young riders who want to pursue excellence both academically and athletically.

 Bryanston School

Bryanston, known for its creative programmes, has also built a strong reputation in riding. Its on-site equestrian centre caters to beginners and advanced riders alike, including those with competition ambitions. Students can bring their own horse and enjoy outstanding facilities. Particularly impressive: the school works with internationally renowned biomechanics expert Russell Guire. Training is not just about riding but also systematic analysis and improvement – leading to measurable progress in the saddle and many “aha” moments for both rider and horse. Bryanston’s approach is holistic: riding is seen as an integral part of personal development.

English boarding schools with excellent equestrian programmes are a fantastic choice – not just for aspiring professionals but also for children and young people who simply want to combine their passion for horses with a high-quality education. Whether bringing their own horse or trying out riding for the first time, there is a perfect option for everyone. 

Want to learn more or find the right equestrian boarding school for your child? Get in touch – we’ll be happy to advise you with experience, insight, and a true understanding of both education and equestrian sport.