Danecroft Stables is a small, family-run horse riding school and livery stable located in Welwyn, Hertfordshire. They offer private livery services, riding lessons, pony day experiences, and birthday parties. Their main focus is on promoting the highest standards of equine welfare, equestrianism, and customer service within their business. They are licenced by the local council and have recently been awarded a 5-star rating.
The staff at Danecroft Stables have several years of experience in the industry, and their yard manager holds recognised qualifications in horse management. They strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone and have a close relationship with Potential Kids, an organisation that aims to give everyone the opportunity to experience the joy of horses.
Situated in beautiful countryside surroundings, Danecroft Stables provides a tranquil setting for horses and ponies. They have ample off-road hacking options and secure, newly fenced fields with no barbed wire. The fields are separated into small herds for mares and geldings, with a separate sick paddock if needed. All-year turnout is available.
Danecroft Stables offers various livery options, including full livery, part livery, and DIY packages, all tailored to suit each horse/pony's individual needs. The facilities include full CCTV, secure individual tack sheds, a floodlit outdoor school with a carpet fibre surface, a tea room with washing machine and dryer, and onsite toilet facilities. The stable block has recently been renovated, and parking for trailers and lorries is available with prior arrangement. Families with children of all ages are welcome.
The yard staff at Danecroft Stables have extensive experience with horses and hold recognised qualifications in all aspects of equine care. They also have a background in the care sector, including private and NHS work, which gives them experience with people living with complex needs, both physically and neurodiversity, across all age groups. Their aim is to ensure that everyone feels included and can enjoy horses as much as they do. The stables are also home to a family of dogs, who are considered part of the Danecroft family.
For riding lessons, Danecroft Stables offers a range of options to suit different needs and schedules. Toddler lessons are available only on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays during term time. Private lessons can be booked for 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 1 hour, depending on preference and availability. Group lessons are also available for 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 1 hour.
Discounts are offered for block bookings of 5 or 10 lessons. Additional services, such as pony days during school holidays and pony therapy sessions (either groundwork only or a combination of groundwork and riding), are also available.
It's important to note that horse riding is often classified as an extreme sport, and due to this, Danecroft Stables emphasises the need for proper safety measures and precautions.