About Us

The Ashdown Forest Riding Centre is located in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, in the South East of England. The Forest is a designated ‘Special Area of Conservation’ and is situated in the middle of The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With 6500 acres of unspoilt beautiful heathland crossed with bridle paths, we can offer uninterrupted off-road horse-riding for hours with beautiful scenery all the way.

We have been operating since 1995 and have horses and ponies ranging from 12hh to 16.3hh suitable for all levels from complete beginners to experienced riders. We offer a wide range of activities aside from our regular hacks out on the Ashdown Forest including lessons with our experienced instructors in our large (60m x 20m). We teach complete beginners and can also offer tuition for competitive showjumping. Other popular activities include Beach Rides to Camber Sands, Pub Rides to picturesque pubs on the Ashdown Forest and Pony Parties for children. Look out for our other activities running during the summer holidays including Pony Days every Wednesday and Friday.

The Team

Stathis Petracopoulos

Owner of the Ashdown Forest Riding Centre since 1995 and has ridden since very young. Stathis has competed in show jumping in Greece and the UK up to 1.30m level. He is hugely experienced as has been taking out most of the hacks over the last 20 years. He is now doing more and more lessons mainly for riders of intermediate & advanced level and riders with ambition & aspirations to compete. Stathis does have a bit of a Greek temperament so he may not be suited for the more nervous, fragile or delicate riders. He is a great motivator though if the rider likes to be pushed a bit.

Anna Hanson - Lead Instructor

Phillippa Jameson - Hack Leader

Abbie Chandler - Instructor & Hack leader

Lisa Bills - Hack Leader

Natalie Chapman - Yard Supervisor