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14 Years
experience
Your Trusted Equestrian Centre for Riding Lessons & Horse Care in Cressing
Deanswood Equestrian Centre has been dedicated to equestrian excellence since 2012, offering a welcoming environment for riders of all ages and abilities. Our 5-star rated riding school, licensed by Braintree District Council, provides structured lessons, camps, and competitions designed to build confidence and horsemanship skills. With a focus on safety and education, we deliver tailored programmes including Pony Club memberships, adult riding clubs, and horse-sharing opportunities. Our experienced instructors prioritise individual growth while fostering a sense of community among participants. Facilities include indoor and outdoor riding areas, complemented by seasonal events that encourage skill development and camaraderie.

We maintain rigorous standards in horse care and stable management, ensuring both animals and riders thrive. Regular feedback sessions and flexible booking options enhance accessibility for families and enthusiasts. By combining technical training with recreational activities, we create memorable experiences that extend beyond riding. Our commitment to quality has earned recognition through consistent positive feedback from participants and parents. As a locally rooted business, we actively contribute to the equestrian community through educational initiatives and competitive opportunities.
Services
Horse Riding Lessons Pony Days Pony Club Membership Horse Sharing Adult Riding Club Equestrian Camps Competitions Gift Vouchers Stable Management Training Horse Care Workshops
Details
  • Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
  • Established in 2012 with 12 years of equestrian experience
  • Licensed by Braintree District Council with 5-star rating
  • Tailored programmes for children, adults, and competitive riders
  • Flexible booking options for lessons, camps, and events
  • Emphasis on safety, horsemanship, and community building
Associations and certifications
  • Braintree District Council (5-star rating)
Services
Horse Riding Lessons
Professional riding tuition available for all ages and abilities, including private and group sessions. Our qualified instructors focus on developing technical skills while ensuring rider confidence. Lessons utilise both indoor and outdoor facilities, with structured progression pathways for recreational and competitive riders.
Pony Club Membership
Monthly Pony Club sessions offering horsemanship training, achievement badges, and competitive opportunities. Members participate in riding, stable management, and team activities, with annual subscriptions including insurance and access to national Pony Club resources.
Equestrian Camps
Seasonal training camps covering dressage, show jumping, and general horsemanship. Camps include skill development sessions, team-building activities, and competitive preparation, with options for half-day and full-day participation during school holidays.
Horse Sharing
Shared ownership opportunities allowing riders to experience full horse care responsibilities. Participants receive stable management training while developing riding skills through regular access to specific horses, with support for competitive endeavours.
Adult Riding Club
Regular adult-focused sessions combining riding instruction with stable management education. The club provides social opportunities for horse enthusiasts while maintaining technical development standards through structured training programmes.
People
Sarah Dean
Licence Holder
Sarah Dean has operated Deanswood Equestrian Centre since its establishment in 2012. With extensive experience in equine management and instruction, she oversees all training programmes and facility operations. Her commitment to quality ensures adherence to licensing standards while maintaining a welcoming environment for riders of all levels.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We offer programmes for children aged 5+ through to adult riders, with specific activities tailored to different age groups and skill levels.
Do I need prior riding experience?
No prior experience is required for our introductory lessons or Pony Days. Our instructors adapt sessions to individual experience levels, from complete beginners to advanced riders.
How do I book a lesson or event?
Contact Sarah Dean directly via 07841 978764 to discuss availability and make bookings for lessons, camps, or special events.
What safety measures are in place?
All activities follow strict safety protocols with qualified supervision. Riders receive appropriate equipment and instruction tailored to their ability level, with risk assessments conducted for all programmes.
What should participants wear?
Riders must wear long trousers and sturdy boots with a heel. Helmets are provided, though personal helmets meeting safety standards are welcome.
Are gift vouchers available?
Yes, we offer gift vouchers for riding lessons, Pony Days, and other services, making ideal gifts for horse enthusiasts of all ages.
Reviews (7)
Daniella Evans
Jan 21, 2021 Report
My daughter farrah started off at the basics some months ago, vicky her instructor has pushed her on to become so confident. Vicky is an outstanding instructor. I have also got back in the saddle after 21years. Vicky is understanding that I'm happy to have a trott around... During half terms farrah has pony days, she absolutely loves every min of being at this yard, all the older girls look out for her, teach her, encourage her. This is my daughter happy place. Sarah loves all her horses and ponies so much. Everyone of the horses and ponies have their own personalities which is what makes this
XxDiam NdxX
Jul 31, 2019 Report
I've been riding at this yard for 3 years I've enjoyed lessons and pony club sessions, all the yard girls are friendly and motivational qwhen I'm in a lesson. Sarah is really friendly and Jack also, all instructors make the lesson equal to everyone all the horses are lovely and sweet but my personal favourite is Sandy. Anyone that thinks this is a bad yard or review it under 3 stars haven't been here long enough to realise how great this place is.I recommend this yard to everyone any age because of how brilliant it is. I just wanted to put this review out there after I saw and awful one earlier
Beth Halsall
Nov 30, 2017 Report
From being at this yard only for 10 months, I've never felt more welcome than any other yard that I've been at. All of the staff are friendly and helpful and run the yard brilliantly, myself being a weekend helper feel that we all treated like gold, and are never put under pressure and taken the mick with. I've never witnessed such care before taken with the horses at a riding school, this to ensure all of the horses are not overloaded with work, and they are always the priority as well as the clients. Overall Deanswood is a fanstastic yard with fabulous instructors and staff, and I wouldn't want
Christine Guest
Nov 09, 2017 Report
Very warm and friendly yard. Staff are always polite and helpful.Varied selection of horses and ponies, all have fantastic temperaments. Instructors are brilliant, lessons are creative and enjoyable! My horse is 'loving life' here and my 2 nieces have lessons and are members of pony club..they can't get enough!! Highly recommended!!
Jacqueline Gascoigne
Aug 12, 2016 Report
I am very impressed with Deanswood and how it's run. All the tack is immaculate, the horses well groomed, cared for and happy, nothing is too much trouble and the standard of teaching is high. Great to meet up with friends for group riding lessons.
Kelly Stephens
Jun 17, 2016 Report
I have been riding at deanswood for 3yrs now, and I love riding there. Sarah and the other instructors are fantastic teachers. I get to ride lovely, well cared for horses. The yard is friendly and helpful, and over the years I've made many friends. We go to local shows and have "in house" shows/ jump night and dressage.
Francesca Simes
May 30, 2016 Report
I have been at Deanswood nearly a year now and I have to say it is the most helpful and welcoming friendly yard I have been to. All the instructors are very professional and friendly. I started doing a share on one of Sarahs horses and she has taught me so much in the time I have been there that I purchased my own horse which I keep there on 5 day livery. He is very well looked after and settled in so quickly! Its a fun yard but professional at the same time, everyone mucks in and helps eachother and there is always someone on site to help. I recommend this yard for lessons and livery! Plus it