Perth and its surrounding regions offer an excellent variety of horse riding schools and experiences for families looking to introduce their children to the world of eques trian activities. From beginner-friendly pony clubs to therapeutic riding centres and beach horse riding adventures, there’s something to suit every age group and skill level. Whether your child is taking their very first riding lesson or looking to advance their equestrian skills, Perth’s horse riding schools provide safe, professional environments where young riders can build confidence, learn horsemanship, and develop a lifelong love of horses. Here’s our guide to some of the best horse riding options in Perth, divided into north and south of the river.
Tips for choosing a horse riding school for your child
When it comes to horse riding schools, there are a few things you should take into account to ensure your child has the best experience possible. If you’re considering enrolling your child in horse riding lessons, here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a school.
First, consider your child’s age and level of experience. It’s important to find a school that offers lessons appropriate for your child’s skill level. There are many different types of riding, so you want to make sure the school offers lessons that match your child’s interests and skill level.
Next, take into account your budget. Riding lessons can be pricey, so be sure to find a school that fits within your budget.
Ask about the instructor’s qualifications and experience. You want to make sure your child is learning from a qualified and experienced instructor who can provide a safe and fun learning environment.
Ask about the school’s safety procedures. Horseback riding can be dangerous, so you want to make sure the school has strict safety procedures in place to protect riders.
Finally, ask around for recommendations. Talk to other parents whose children take horse riding lessons and see if they have any suggestions for schools in the area.
Where to take your kids horse riding in Perth
Horse Riding Schools – North of the River
Happy Hooves Horse Riding School – Wanneroo
Happy Hooves Wanneroo offers beginner horse riding lessons for children in a safe, beautiful environment with a strong focus on active parent participation. Their programs include the Little Riders Club for ages 4-14, the Horsey Activity Club for ages 2-5, private sessions, vaulting for ages 6 and up, holiday programs, and birthday parties. Parents are expected to supervise and assist their children during lessons, creating a wonderful bonding experience. Children need to wear long trousers and enclosed shoes, with helmets provided by the school. The instructors are experienced and the school’s ponies are carefully selected and trained to be safe for young beginners.
Read the Buggybuddys review of Happy Hooves Horse Riding School
Address: 44 Jambanis Road, Wanneroo WA 6065
Website: happyhooveswanneroo.com.au
Showgrounds North – Wanneroo
Formerly known as Centura Riding School, Showgrounds North is a professional AHRC accredited riding school offering horse riding lessons for all levels of riding ability. With over 30 years of experience, it operates seven days a week all year round, with the exception of a three-week break for the school horses over Christmas and New Year. All instructors are trained to and above industry standards and excel at bringing the best out of children and adults alike. Services include lunge lessons, private riding lessons, group riding lessons, and school holiday programs.
Address: 48 Franklin Road, Jandabup WA 6077
Website: centuraridingschool.com.au
Wanneroo Riding Centre – Wanneroo
Wanneroo Riding Centre offer horse riding lessons that suit kids and adults from age 6 and up. Whether you are just getting started or have been around horses your whole life, their experienced coaches can tailor your lesson to help you reach your goals. They also offer therapeutic riding which can help individuals with disabilities improve their physical, emotional and social well-being through mounted and unmounted equine activities. Occasionally Wanneroo Riding Centre offer their very popular beach riding lessons.
For more information visit wannerooridingcentre.com.au
Read the Buggybuddys review of Wanneroo Riding Centre
Showgrounds Equestrian Centre – Claremont
Showgrounds Equestrian Centre is conveniently located at the Claremont Showgrounds, just 10 minutes from Perth’s CBD. The centre caters for children from 4 years old through to adults, offering both group and private lessons for beginners to advanced riders. They run a popular ‘Pony for a Day’ program during school holidays where children aged 6 to early teens can experience horse care, horsemanship, and riding activities from 9am to 3pm. The centre teaches dressage, hacking, cross country, and show jumping, with four terms per year plus casual lessons. Equipment including helmets and riding boots can be supplied if needed.
Address: Royal Showgrounds, 1 Graylands Road, Claremont WA 6010
Website: showgroundsequestrian.com.au
Claremont Therapeutic Riding Centre – Mt Claremont
Claremont Therapeutic Riding Centre (CTRC) is a not-for-profit organisation providing equine activities for therapy, sport, recreation, and training for children and adults of all abilities. Established in 1972, it is the longest continuing organisation providing riding for people with disabilities in Western Australia. The centre focuses on inclusion and participation, offering sessions in a fabulous 70m x 30m indoor arena so riding can continue in all weather conditions. CTRC provides both supported programs for NDIS participants and regular riding lessons for children and adults. There is currently a 12-month waiting list, but interested families are welcome to join the waitlist.
Address: Brockway Road cnr John XXIII Avenue, Mt Claremont WA 6010
Website: claremonttherapeuticridingcentre.org.au
Horse Riding Schools – South of the River
Zia Park Equestrian Centre – Gidgegannup
Zia Park Equestrian Centre is located in the beautiful Perth Hills on a 140-acre complex in Gidgegannup. The centre offers horse riding lessons for ages 3 and up, from beginners to experienced riders, with highly qualified coaches including proprietor Gail Simms who is an NCAS Level 2 coach and Advanced Level dressage judge. Zia Park is particularly known for its trail rides that take riders through bushland on horses and ponies suitable for all skill levels. Trail rides are led by an experienced rider, last for an hour, and can be booked for private or group sessions (up to 6 in a group). The booking process is straightforward online, with confirmation and reminder texts. Rides go ahead in all weather except lightning and storms.
Read the Buggybuddys review of Zia Park Equestrian Centre
Address: 8410 Stoneville Road, Gidgegannup WA 6083
Website: ziapark.com.au
Ellison Park Riding School – Hopeland
Ellison Park Riding School in Hopeland (near Baldivis) offers quality horse riding lessons for children and adults of all experience levels. Owned by Tim and Tracey Ellis, this professional eventing stables provides both shared and private lessons for riders from age 2 upward. The school features well-trained schoolmasters that are safe and suitable for all riding abilities. Ellison Park specialises in helping riders gain confidence, teaching basic skills for safe enjoyment, and supporting competition riders at all levels. They offer school holiday horse riding day camps for children aged 4-16, as well as clinics in showjumping, cross country, and dressage.
Address: 512 Karnup Road, Hopeland WA 6125
Website: Facebook – Ellison Park
Foxwood Farm Equestrian Centre – Wattle Grove
Foxwood Farm Equestrian Centre is a five-star equestrian and agistment facility conveniently located in the metropolitan area at Wattle Grove. The centre provides a safe and friendly environment for both children and adults, with professional NCAS qualified instructors teaching in international-class facilities. These include an indoor arena, two outdoor arenas, hot and cold water wash bay, round yard, and bush riding trails. Foxwood Farm offers riding lessons and school holiday camps, with 24-hour care provided by professional friendly staff. The centre caters for all levels from beginners to advanced riders.
Address: Lot 56 Brook Road, Wattle Grove WA 6107
Website: foxwoodequestriancentre.weebly.com
Brockman’s Riding School – Oakford
Brockman’s Riding School is Western Australia’s longest-running horse riding school, established for over 50 years. Located just 45km south of Perth (approximately 30 minutes’ drive) between Rowley Road and Thomas Road in Oakford, the school provides a wide variety of equine activities across a broad range of skill levels and ages. They cater for young inexperienced children and adults with a keen interest in horses through to more experienced competition riders. Brockman’s offers horse riding lessons, children’s ride camps, day camps, horse management programs, birthday parties, and trail rides, all in a friendly, safe, and relaxed environment. Open Monday to Sunday, 7:00am to 5:00pm.
Address: 919 Nicholson Road, Oakford WA 6121
Website: brockmansridingschool.com.au
Horse riding is a wonderful activity that teaches children valuable life skills including responsibility, confidence, balance, and empathy for animals. Whether you’re looking for a gentle introduction to horses for your toddler, regular weekly lessons to build riding skills, therapeutic riding for children with special needs, or even an exciting beach horse riding adventure, Perth’s horse riding schools offer excellent options for every family. Many schools also run fantastic school holiday programs including day camps and ‘pony for a day’ experiences that give children an immersive introduction to horse care and riding. Remember to book ahead, especially for popular holiday programs and beach riding sessions, and always check individual school requirements regarding clothing, age limits, and parent supervision. Happy riding!
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Jennie McNichol is on a mission to prove there is always something fun to do in Perth. After 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie moved to Perth in 2010 and founded Buggybuddys to silence the “nothing to do” crowd. Fifteen years later, it is the city’s number one guide for families, packed with daily inspiration and a huge focus on free local activities.
As a mum of two daughters, Jennie has evolved the site right alongside her own family—growing from a toddler-focused resource into a guide that supports parents through every stage, from the early years through to the teens. A passionate advocate for the WA lifestyle, Jennie loves helping families discover the best playgrounds, hidden gems, and budget-friendly days out in the most family-friendly city in the world.
Thank you for this information. It was very helpful.
Keep the hard work going Team buggybuddys, love your emails.