Forest Park Riding School
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you located?
We are located at 912 Cotter Rd, Stromlo ACT 2611. This is 1km past Mt Stromlo Observatory in Canberra. We recently relocated to this location 2 years ago, so if you have not visited us since the move please prepare your journey early to avoid being late for your ride. Please click here for more information about our location.
Are you open on public holidays?
Yes! We are open every day except for Christmas day for our rides. We frequently run trail rides on public holidays -give us a call on 62874888 or email us at hughes81@bigpond.net.au to make a booking.
What do i wear for my horse riding lesson?
We suggest riders wear sensible and comfortable clothing during their ride. Long comfortable pants such as leggings or jodhpurs are recommended to wear on the horse, with socks to wear under your riding boots. A t-shirt with sleeves and collar is recommended. It is recommended that riders wear sunscreen, particularly in summer. Some riders also like to wear shatterproof sunglasses. In Autumn/Winter months Canberra can be quite cold - don't forget to bring a warm jacket. A limited number of Australian standard approved riding helmets and boots are available to borrow, included in your riding fee.
What do I need to bring to my ride?
We recommend riders bring a water bottle along to their lesson to have before and after their ride. We recommend riders fill their water before coming to our property as tap water is not recommended for drinking. In hotter weather you may also like to bring along a snack to have after your ride.
If you have printed a waiver please bring this along with you, or alternatively this can be signed on the day.
We have vending machines with drinks and snacks located in our indoor arena viewing area.
Where can i purchase my own riding clothing and equipment?
Forest Park Riding School is proudly sponsored by Horseland Canberra, which is a store located in Fyshwick, ACT. Horseland sells a variety of equestrian equipment and clothing, including riding pants, boots, helmets, gifts and more. They would be happy to assist you with all of your equestrian needs. If you are a new student at Forest Park Riding School, mention us and they would be happy to help you find the perfect riding equipment for your needs.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes! We sell gift vouchers at Forest Park - perfect to give to your special someone for their birthday, Christmas, anniversaries and more. Our vouchers can be purchased for any of our services such as trail rides or lessons or alternatively you can pick any monetary value!
What time do I need to arrive for my ride?
For first time riders at Forest Park we recommend you arrive to Forest Park 20-30 minutes early to check in with the office and be fitted with boots and helmets prior to the ride. This is important to ensure the ride leaves on time so you can obtain the full experience. Other riders are required to be at Forest Park at least 10-15 minutes prior to their ride. Unfortunately we cannot accept riders who are late for their ride, so please ensure that you plan your trip and arrive with plenty of time to spare. We have seating areas and vending machines on our premises while you are waiting. If you are late to your ride time your ride will have to be rescheduled.
Do you have a weight limit for your rides?
We have a weight limit of 100kg on our riding school horses. This weight limit is for the safety and comfort of our riders and horses.
Can i participate in horse riding with a medical condition or disability?
As horse riding is a dangerous sport we need to ensure that riders are safe and able to appropriately manage the situations and exercise intensity required when handling and riding horses. If you have a medical condition or disability, you may be asked to provide medical clearance or complete an assessment lesson prior to joining our groups - this is to ensure your safety and the safety of our horses and staff. As our riding school is focused on general riding instruction, unfortunately we do not have horses, staff training or equipment specialized for Riding with the Disabled or Horse Therapy specific to the needs of some disabilities. We are always happy to discuss whether our horses, equipment and lessons/services are suitable for your needs.
I am thinking of booking my child in for a group trail ride but am concerned they may become fearful. What do you suggest?
For younger children who have never ridden before - if you are concerned that your child may be fearful of the ride we recommend a private lesson to get them used to horses prior to joining a group trail ride. Many children with no riding experience enjoy a group trail ride, however if you feel your child may need extra time to get used to horses we suggest a private lesson with one of our instructors to move at a slower pace.
What age can children learn to ride at Forest Park?
We cater for riders from 2 years of age. Riders aged 2-7 years old are able to ride in our little league or pony ride classes. We designed these shorter classes for children to learn a variety of riding and theory skills in a lesson situation with other children of similar age. Children are led by a parent in a lesson situation. Click here for more information about little league and pony rides.
Riders aged 7 + are able to ride in our term lessons, private lessons and trail rides. Riders can be of any level of experience, from beginner to competition level. We have clients of all ages - from young children up to 90+ years old.
I would like to organise a group booking. Do you have rides for groups?
Yes we love to have groups of riders at Forest Park. We can structure a ride for your needs - including group lessons, trail rides and more. Please contact us to organise a booking either by email at hughes81@bigpond.net.au or by phone at 62874888.
I would like to propose to my partner on a trail ride. Is this possible?
Of course! We love to assist our clients create special moments. Contact us via email and we can help to organise a romantic ride and an opportunity to propose on horseback. ❤
Do you have agistment available at Forest Park for my horse/s?
At present we are very full at Forest Park, however are always keen to welcome new members to our community. Please don't hesitate to send us an email at hughes81@bigpond.net.au and we will let you know what availability we have and could put you on our waiting list for board if there is no current vacancies. Also let us know if you are interested in lessons etc. at the time of your email and we can do our best to help you out.
What is your cancellation policy for my ride?
If you are unable to ride in your regular lesson we ask that you phone and cancel your spot at your earliest availability. In the case of a pre-planned event we require 24 hours notice and in the case of illness we require notice no later 9am on your day of riding. If we do not receive this notice we will require you to pay for the booked lesson in full. Please also inform our office staff each week whether you intend to ride the following week or not.
For term, school holiday program and group bookings a non-refundable deposit is required to secure this spot.
Are walk-in accepted?
Bookings for our rides are essential - as we need to prepare horses and have instructors available for our services. If you are nearby and want to see if there is any availability that is fine - we may be able to fit you in for a trail ride or other lesson, however we cannot guarantee a vacancy.
Is there wheelchair access?
Most of Forest Park is wheelchair accessible. Our office area, outdoor arenas and horse area is accessible via wheelchair, however our indoor area does have a flight of stairs to access the spectator viewing area. If your family member or friend is riding in a lesson and you require wheelchair access to watch them, please let us know prior to the scheduled lesson and we can ensure the lesson is planned in an accessible area. If you have any concerns about accessing any of our facilities please don't hesitate to get in contact with us and we would be happy to assist you.
Does your riding school have any qualifications?
Yes we do! Forest Park is an accredited riding centre with the 'Australian Horse Riding Centres' (AHRC). A number of our instructors also have accreditation with Equestrian Australia, which involves a number of competencies in riding and teaching skills, safety procedures and equestrian knowledge. All of our instructors are also registered with the Working with Vulnerable People and have First Aid Certificates.
How do i keep up to date with Forest Park?
To keep up to date with us and our horses you can visit our Facebook or Instagram pages via the links below.