Inclusive Hobby Horsing in the UK: Accessibility Guide for Riders, Parents and Carers

Every rider is different, and so is every club, venue and show. This guide explains the practical information families often want to check before going along, so you can decide what will work for your rider and know what to ask.

Important: Hobby Horse Hub UK shows information supplied by clubs, venues and organisers. We do not assess, rate or certify accessibility. Needs vary from person to person, so please contact the provider directly about individual requirements.

How accessibility information works on Hobby Horse Hub UK

• Club, venue, event and competition pages have an Accessibility & inclusion section.
• Each fact shows Yes, No or Not provided. "Not provided" simply means nobody has told us yet — it is not a judgement.
• Venue facts (such as an accessible toilet) belong to the venue. Event facts (such as a quieter session) belong to that event. On event pages both are shown separately.
• You can filter the Clubs, Venues, Events and Competitions directories by facts that providers have confirmed.

Physical access

• Step-free access: is there a route from the car park to the arena, toilets and viewing area without steps?
• Accessible parking: are there marked spaces, and how far are they from the arena?
• Accessible toilets: where are they, and are they available all day?
• Surfaces: grass, sand and matting feel very different underfoot and for wheelchairs or buggies.
• Seating: is there somewhere to sit and watch, and can supporters sit close to the riding area?

Sensory environment

• Noise and music: is music played during classes, and how loud is the tannoy or commentary?
• Lighting: indoor halls may have bright or flickering lights; outdoor shows change with the weather.
• Crowds: larger competitions can be busy, especially around prize-giving. Smaller club sessions are usually calmer.
• Quiet space: is there a quieter area or room to take a break?

Advance information

• Some organisers share maps, timings, photos of the venue or a running order before the day.
• Knowing where to go, what happens when and how long each part lasts can make a big difference for some riders.
• If it isn't published, it is fine to ask.

Communication and support

• Ask how instructions are given during classes — spoken, written or demonstrated.
• Ask whether carers, parents or supporters can accompany a rider in the warm-up or arena.
• Ask whether breaks, extra time or a practice run are possible.

Contacting organisers in advance

• Use the contact details on the club, venue or event page.
• Say what would help your rider, rather than sharing medical details you don't need to share.
• Ask specific questions: "Is music used during the jumping classes?" is easier to answer than "Is it suitable?".
• Organisers are usually glad to help when they know in advance.

Why individual needs vary

No single adaptation suits everyone, and no condition automatically needs a particular arrangement. The best person to judge what will help is you and your rider, together with the organiser.

Find events, clubs and venues

Browse the Events, Competitions, Clubs and Venues directories, or open your county page from Regions, and check each listing's Accessibility & inclusion section before you go.