Currently we are open for small group and private lessons, to customers with independent riding and horse handling abilities. Groups are a maximum of 6 independent riders. Privates and semi privates are available for those on lead rein who can provide their own competent leader. We also offer one to one lessons for independent and lead rein riders (lead rein riders must provide their own leader). Hacks by appointment will be available soon - please contact us with your information if you are interested.
This approach has been adopted to protect you and our staff at this difficult time.
We will review this regularly and update via facebook, in the first instance, and on this site. More information is below. Want to know more about what we are usually up to, ready for our full return? Take a look at what we do.
What does 'private lessons for customers with independent riding and horse handling abilities' mean?
In short this means we can only open, currently, to individuals who can confidently handle a horse from the stable to arena, check tack, mount and ride independently. We cannot provide lessons to non independent riders (beginners) or people who need physical help to handle, mount or ride at the present time due to social distancing measures. (Boo, we know!)
This is because we need to protect you and our staff by ensuring social distancing of 2 metres is maintained at all times and that minimal shared surfaces are touched.
I think I have independent riding and handling & I'd like to book.
That sounds great! Here are some things we need to check: Firstly, you need to be an independent rider - this means you are able to adjust girths and stirrups unaided. You must also be able to confidently handle your horse/pony or have the help of a competent person from the same household/social bubble to help you on the ground and once in the saddle.
If you can answer the following questions confidently, then we can not wait to see you. Please be honest with us and yourself. Remember that your health comes first. We do not want to cause any more strain on the NHS and we will be open to all as soon as we can:
Do you own your own equipment (hat, body protector, gloves) and agree not to share these with others?
Can you tighten girth and adjust stirrups comfortably and safely without help from an instructor?
Are you able and willing to enter the stable; undo the throat lash, on the bridle, to release the reins; lead your mount to the arena, safely without assistance and recheck a girth?
Can you mount your horse without assistance (using a mounting block is advised)?
Are you happy that during your lesson you will walk and trot only, until the instructor deems it safe to progress?
If yes - amazing. Bookings are open now with Sue on 07974506929 - text is often best or via Facebook - facebook.com/BurnbyEquestrianCentre. Felicity, our manager, is heading off on maternity leave from the end of August so is handing over the reins and creating the next generation of riders! Your booking will be taken and handed to our team of instructors to find the most suitable lesson for you to join. Please be patient with this new system. We do always need your name, height, weight and previous experience in order to answer your query efficiently.
Please be aware that if our instructors deem you unable to do any of the above we will not allow you to ride/continue riding for your own safety.
What is Burnby doing to keep me safe?
To keep you safe we will have a number of measures in place.
Social distancing will be practiced at all times
Minimal staff will be present to keep your time with us as safe as possible.
There will be a minimum 10 minute interval between clients to avoid crossover
Equipment will be cleaned between each client
Throughout the day we disinfect door handles and communal areas.
We're asking riders to own their own equipment, as sharing riding gear has been deemed to be a risk at this point
We will ask you to pay by bank transfer prior to your appointment to ensure cash handling does not create close contact. Upon booking confirmation you will be notified of bank details.
What about first aid?
Riding is a risk support and injuries can occur. To protect our staff and ensure you get the best care we have decided to make a change to our general first aid procedures. Where first aid is needed this will be via a visual assessment only and should you require further assessment or treatment, you will be advised to go straight to A & E or an ambulance will be called.
We will only conduct physical first aid where injuries are deemed life threatening, or where the lack of physical intervention could create a life threatening situation. This will be under the best judgement of our first aid trained staff.
What facilities are available?
All inside spaces will be closed.
The toilet will still be available for customers.
The cafe will remain closed to customers.
What we ask from you?
Please be honest in your ability. We don't want to have to stop anyone riding mid lesson.
Please use hand sanitiser provided upon entering the premises and leaving.
Please wash your hands regularly and do not touch surfaces and equipment you do not need to.
Please stick to time slots on arriving and leaving to help us ensure no cross over happens where not needed.
Please pay in advance of your lesson by bank transfer.
If you or a member of your family develop a cough or cold/temperature/loss of smell or taste, please cancel your appointment.
Please maintain social distancing at all times.
Please do not turn up to Burnby Equestrian Centre without an appointment - should you wish to book a visit or look around, please contact Sue on 07974506929.
Thank you from us all.
Burnby Equestrian Centre, The Granary, Burnby, York YO42 1RS