Pony Rides

Domino8212

Well-Known Member
Joined
17 December 2012
Messages
53
Location
Yorkshire, UK
Visit site
Hi, does anyone know roughly how much it would cost to insure a small pony for pony rides? I have a shetland and small pony and would love to start doing fetes and fairs etc with them. Heard you had to have a riding school license too?? just wondered if anyone had done this before and could give me a heads-up on the price of the insurance, Thanks in advance.
 
You will require a RS licence and full insurance just the same as if you were running a proper RS, it will cost you more than you can possibly get back and you will also become a business with the implications that comes with it, your facilities will be rated as a business.
A small RS near me has just closed down having built up a nice business over the past 3 years, the rates were crippling £9k just for the barn the stables were in with no way of getting a reduction as it all counted, that was before the school and insurance costs, it really will not be worth while.
 
How do the pony party people get round this rule? Or do they make enough to make it worthwhile?

Such a shame our countrys rules and regs and culture of sue sue sue will deprive so many kids of a sit up on a pony.
 
How do the pony party people get round this rule? Or do they make enough to make it worthwhile?

Might be some operate without insurance and full legal correctness. Cash in hand still works; however those operating like that are running a big risk - if anyone gets hurt and sues that's it.

Others might be working for a chain group; they'll take a pittance (normally) of the pay; but on the flipside they'll get access to a group insurance cover and business setup. So whilst the profits are small, they can operate under the umbrella of the larger company.
 
If you're just doing lead rein rides in walk and not doing actual lessons and are mobile you shouldn't need a RS licence. You will need a licence from your council to operate which also includes a vet check of your ponies and where you keep them. You will also need public liability insurance. I think that's all.

The cost of the licence varies, different councils charge different amounts. In SE England where my friend runs a pony ride/party business, its around £350 a year.
 
I know someone who has a mini as a therapy horse, who is not ridden. Just for her to take the pony out in public to a shop etc is upwards of 1,000 a year. Ridden this would be a lot higher.
 
A Riding Establishmentl Licence is the licence from the council. Its not two different things and you will need one
Whilst the cost of the licence isn't onerous there is a strict inspection to get one including inspection of premises, animals and veterinary check
 
Top