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Cross-country and Toll Rides
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General
This is despite only 4% of the population who actually ride (and many of them are only occasional riders).
There are approximately 900,000 horses and ponies in the UK with over 2 million riders (about a third are under 15). Riding lessons worth over £500 million. There are over 3,000 riding schools or trekking centres in the UK.
The pursuit of equine activities is continuing to increase for both pleasure and competition - hence demand for safe, enjoyable riding and jumping off the main highways. For more equestrian statistics please see the British Horse Society leaflet on equine statistics here.
Farmers are often in a position to provide such facilities without undue interference with farming operations. Capital costs may be moderate, with several agencies being available to manage facilities.
Please remember that special consideration must be given to the VAT aspects of diversification as the new activity may not be treated the same as the existing farm business from a VAT standpoint.
Market
Approximately four million people ride in the UK, providing a vast market of young and old alike.
Geographical location and attractiveness of countryside, as well as facilities provided and links to other farms, are important.
Physical Requirements
1. Cross Country Courses
Preferably one mile track with 16-24 solidly constructed fences of varying degrees of difficulty and height to cater for all requirements from schooling a youngster to the existing competition horse.
Car parking essential. WC and other facilities preferable.
2. Toll Rides
Situated in attractive geographical location if possible and linking to other farms. On unfenced paths, or those fenced or hedged on one side only the path should be 3 metres wide (if the path is fenced on both sides, at least 3.8 metres).
Car parking essential. WC, etc optional.
Any fencing should ideally be post and rail, but plain wire could be used (never use barbed wire).
Costs
The following costing information is general and current prices should be sought for budgeting purposes.
Capital Costs
Cross Country Courses - maintenance of ground and fences etc, supervision and stewarding.
Toll Rides - grass seeding and preparation of route / beaten earth route, gates, bridges.
Running Costs
No information available
Returns
Cross Country Courses - approximately £10 per horse per round (£8 junior).
Toll Rides - each member of scheme £100 pa (£75 junior). Farmer receives 70% approximately. £85 per mile.
Constraints
Physical limitations such as soil types, natural water courses, topography and woodland.
A high standard of construction, good design of fences and quality facilities are essential. Access. Planning consent.
Training
Grants
Through the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP) 2007-2013 funding is now available for rural businesses throughout Scotland for diversification and renewable energy projects. Specifically, support is delivered through Rural Development Contracts – Rural Priorities which was launched in April 2008. For further information about what support is available see the Section on Rural Development Contracts – Rural Priorities.
Further Information
Publications
UK Chasers. Eventing Magazine. East Anglian Farm Rides. Horses in the Countryside - a code of practice for owners and riders.
The Scottish Equestrian magazine Horse Business Management Reference Handbook. Warwickshire College of Agriculture. 3rd Edit (1990).
The British Horse Society Provide a number of leaflets relating to access, including: Paying for Riding on Farmland Some Equestrian Statistics Some Practical Recommendations on Standards and Dimensions Hill and Moorland Riding Horse Crossing (Roads) Diversion of Bridleways Width of Bridleways Countryside Conservation Windfarms Use of Byways/Unsurfaced Highways Code for Riding and Driving Responsibly Access the BHS's Online Book Shop