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Horseback riding for beginners in Virginia

121 stables in Virginia welcome beginners, out of 332 stables we list in the state. Each one is here because a customer review or its own website mentions beginners, and the proof is under each stable.

121Stables
79Cities
332All stables in VA

Top 12 by rating and reviews

Ranked by Google rating × number of reviews (10 reviews or more). The other 109 stables are listed by city below.

Open-now times come from Google; call the stable before you go.

Kay's Acres, LLC

800 Lummis Rd

Trail ridesLessonsBeginners
4.9Rating
1,087Reviews
3Services

Her confidence and skill made the whole experience fun, and I felt comfortable and at ease on my very first time on a horse.

From a Google review

The stable's website says so too.

Fort Valley Ranch & Campground

299 S Fort Valley Rd

Trail ridesLessonsBeginners
4.8Rating
594Reviews
6Services

Since it was our first time horseback riding, we were honestly a little nervous at first.

From a Google review

The stable's website says so too.

Woodstone Meadows Stables

2560 Ag Center Dr

Trail ridesLessonsBoarding
4.2Rating
503Reviews
6Services

Highly recommend this trail ride if you’re a beginner looking to get comfortable with riding horses, it’s slow paced but still fun.

From a Google review

The stable's website says so too.

Jordan Hollow Stables

657 Pine Grove Rd

Trail ridesBeginners
4.9Rating
366Reviews
3Services

Whether you’re a beginner riding for the first time or an experienced rider looking to explore the area, Jordan Hollow Stables is an excellent choice.

From a Google review

The stable's website says so too.

Appalachian Horse Adventures

396 Fork Mountain Ln

Trail ridesLessonsBeginners
4.9Rating
294Reviews
7Services

Our guide, Jeanette, was very knowledgeable, helpful and reassuring - especially to my husband who was a first time rider.

From a Google review

The stable's website says so too.

Oakland Heights Farm

17110 James Madison Hwy

Trail ridesLessonsBeginners
4.8Rating
218Reviews
6Services
Beginners: per the stable's website

Tamarack Stables

9905 Old Colchester Rd

Trail ridesLessonsBeginners
4.7Rating
209Reviews
5Services

We wanted a beginner horseback riding experience for a birthday and we got it!

From a Google review

The stable's website says so too.

Let's Ride Horses, LLC Bath County

1106 Jackson River Turnpike

Trail ridesBeginnersSummer camps
5Rating
194Reviews
5Services

Our group of six, which included two kids and mostly first-time riders, felt completely at ease throughout the entire experience.

★★★★★ Alex, Dec 2024

The stable's website says so too.

Rocking S Ranch, LLC

564 Glaize Orchard Rd

Trail ridesLessonsBeginners
4.8Rating
166Reviews
3Services

The trail riding is fantastic for both beginner and advanced riders-- our group had both and everyone had a great time!

From a Google review

The stable's website says so too.

Secret Passage Ranch

321 Spring Mountain Way

Trail ridesLessonsBoarding
4.7Rating
156Reviews
7Services
Beginners: per the stable's website

Royal Horseshoe Farm Inc

509 Morgan Ford Rd

Trail ridesLessonsBoarding
4.8Rating
147Reviews
6Services

My partner booked a private trail ride for us - I’ve had years of riding experience and it was his first time on a horse, and we both had a fantastic time!

From a Google review

Mountaintop Ranch

608 Weaver Rd

Trail ridesBeginnersMountain rides
4.6Rating
97Reviews
5Services

The horses were gentle, well-trained, and a joy to ride, making us feel at ease even as beginners.

From a Google review

The stable's website says so too.

More stables that welcome beginners in Virginia, by city

Aldie 4 stables

Amherst 1 stable

Ashland 1 stable

  • Haverhill Farm12415 Whisana Ln, Ashland · ★ 4.3 (18)

    I would highly recommend Haverhill to anyone from beginner to advanced looking to learn from one of our knowledgable professionals, Jessica, Natalie or Meghan.

    From a Google review

Assawoman 1 stable

  • Queen Hive Farm11172 Atlantic Rd, Assawoman · ★ 4.9 (69)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Axton 1 stable

  • Leg Up Stable760 Conway Dr, Axton · ★ 4.8 (12)
    Beginners: mentioned in a customer review

Blacksburg 1 stable

  • Advantage Ranch4190 Dori Del Hls, Blacksburg · ★ 4.9 (8)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Bluemont 1 stable

  • Red Gate Farm19255 Foggy Bottom Rd, Bluemont · ★ 4.6 (56)

    Great start for any beginner!

    From a Google review

Bristol 1 stable

  • E&H Intermont Equestrian Riding Center20432 Stables Rd, Bristol · ★ 4.5 (11)

    You make friends and connections that will last your lifetime, from beginners to advanced riders there is always a spot for you here.

    ★★★★★ Emily, Aug 2021

Cape Charles 1 stable

Catlett 2 stables

  • Vintage Valley Sporthorses LLC11084 Brent Town Rd, Catlett · ★ 4.4 (29)
    Beginners: mentioned in 3 customer reviews
  • Scattered Acres Sport Horses8366 Old Nokesville Rd, Catlett · ★ 4.9 (15)

    From riders on their first time on a horse to seasoned competitors looking to advance to the next level, Scattered Acres has it all.

    From a Google review

Centreville 1 stable

  • Bull Run Stables6001 Bull Run Post Office Rd, Centreville · ★ 4.6 (31)

    The people who work there are so nice and welcoming, they were so kind and patient with my daughter who had never ridden on horse.

    From a Google review

Charles City 1 stable

  • Warner's Sporthorses6161 N Bluffs Ct, Charles City · ★ 5 (8)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Charlottesville 5 stables

  • Brookhill Farm2067 Scottsville Rd, Charlottesville · ★ 4.9 (44)

    Lynne has been amazing in helping teaching beginners for us before they can join group lessons with the rest of the team, and she is always so friendly and welcoming.

    From a Google review
  • Double C Ranch LLC2626 Yule Farm, Charlottesville · ★ 4.2 (17)

    Highly recommend whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance your skills!

    From a Google review
  • Huckleberry Hill5048 Scottsville Rd, Charlottesville · ★ 4.9 (11)

    For the first time on a horse my kid is dying for her 2nd.

    ★★★★★ Melissa, Feb 2022
  • Mechums View Farm1107 Mechum View Dr, Charlottesville · ★ 5 (9)
    Beginners: mentioned in a customer review
  • Barracks518 Barracks Farm Rd, Charlottesville · ★ 5 (4)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Chesapeake 3 stables

Chesterfield 2 stables

  • Brandywine Farms13705 Bundle Rd, Chesterfield · ★ 4.7 (51)

    As an adult getting back into lessons, and coming from a place where beginners are looked down upon, Ariel’s coaching style is a welcome breath of fresh air.

    From a Google review
  • Back Trail Stables9501 Woodpecker Rd, Chesterfield · ★ 5 (1)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Christiansburg 2 stables

  • Meadow Ridge Stables2115 Mud Pike, Christiansburg · ★ 4.6 (18)
    Beginners: per the stable's website
  • Laurel Springs Farm2815 Wild Turkey Run, Christiansburg · ★ 4.9 (13)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Clifton 1 stable

Colonial Heights 1 stable

Culpeper 1 stable

  • Touch Point Farm16251 Dark Horse Trail, Culpeper · ★ 5 (8)

    I have been riding here since I was 14 - my first time riding was at their Summer Camp!

    ★★★★★ Michelle, Jun 2018

Fairfax Station 1 stable

Fincastle 1 stable

  • Harmony Equestrian Center661 Farmers Rd, Fincastle · ★ 4.5 (22)

    I highly recommend Harmony for both beginner and advanced riders of all ages.

    From a Google review

Floyd 1 stable

  • Along The Water1957 Thunderstruck Rd NE, Floyd · ★ 4.9 (55)

    It's clear that the horses are well cared for and I had a wonderful ride even though I have no riding experience.

    From a Google review

Forest 1 stable

Fredericksburg 4 stables

  • Tamarack Stables Rivers Edge14511 Spg Ml Rd, Fredericksburg · ★ 5 (43)

    The horses were well-cared for and gentle (though with personality) and the experience was well suited for beginners as well as more experienced riders.

    From a Google review
  • Whitestone Farm10413 Eleys Frd Rd, Fredericksburg · ★ 4.7 (12)
    Beginners: per the stable's website
  • Hilltop Stables10018 Leavells Rd, Fredericksburg · ★ 5 (4)
    Beginners: per the stable's website
  • Crossroads Ranch, LLC3116 Summit Crossing Rd, Fredericksburg · ★ 5 (1)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Gainesville 1 stable

Gloucester 1 stable

  • Areion Equestrian9557 Robins Neck Rd #4530, Gloucester · ★ 4.7 (30)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Goodview 1 stable

  • Pine Ridge Stables & Horse Rescue Inc3693 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Goodview · ★ 5 (4)

    Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, the staff is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and attentive.

    From a Google review

Great Falls 1 stable

Hampton 1 stable

  • Horse & Hound1433 Big Bethel Rd, Hampton · ★ 4.7 (63)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Haymarket 2 stables

  • Lantern Lane Farm14925 Doe Ridge Rd, Haymarket · ★ 4.5 (26)

    I’m an adult beginner taking western riding lessons, and I’ve had such a great experience here.

    From a Google review
  • Progressive Riding Program3491 James Madison Hwy, Haymarket · ★ 4.7 (9)

    I had took my girlfriend here on a date for her birthday because she had never ridden a horse before but always had interest in doing so.

    ★★★★★ Michael, Oct 2020

Herndon 1 stable

Hurt 1 stable

  • Threefold Stables LLC2052 Easome Rd, Hurt · ★ 5 (4)

    My daughters loved their first time riding experience.

    ★★★★★ Allison, Aug 2026

Jeffersonton 1 stable

  • Hope Springs Farm18537 Springs Rd, Jeffersonton · ★ 4.8 (6)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Lanexa 1 stable

Leesburg 7 stables

  • 20/20 Horsemanship17479 Dry Mill Rd, Leesburg · ★ 4.7 (40)

    As a true beginner, I loved the way she explained and walked me through everything one step at a time starting with the basics.

    From a Google review
  • The Stables at Wulf Crest Farm19876 Riders Success Ln, Leesburg · ★ 4.7 (33)

    Wulf Crest is a fantastic riding facility offering horse boarding, beginner and advanced lessons, a show team, and trail rides.

    From a Google review
  • Virk Equestrian Arts LLC42396 Spinks Ferry Rd, Leesburg · ★ 5 (22)

    I would highly recommend VJ to anyone interested in learning to ride, especially beginners.

    From a Google review
  • Cavallo Farm22761 Evergreen Mills Rd, Leesburg · ★ 4.9 (11)

    If you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced rider – hunters and jumpers – I highly recommend Cavallo Farm.

    From a Google review
  • Clairvaux LLC40730 Farm Market Rd, Leesburg · ★ 4.8 (11)
    Beginners: per the stable's website
  • Orchard Manor Show Stables19200 Orchard Manor Ln, Leesburg · ★ 4.6 (10)

    The horses are well looked after and the atmosphere at the barn is welcoming and supportive, whether you’re a beginner or someone with more experience.

    ★★★★★ Lilly, Mar 2026
  • Beat the Odds Training43112 Spinks Ferry Rd, Leesburg
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Linden 1 stable

  • Marriott Ranch Trail Rides4439 Fiery Run Rd, Linden · ★ 4.7 (72)

    Ideal trail-riding experience, especially for novices, beginners, or people who haven't been on a horse in a long time.

    From a Google review

Locust Grove 2 stables

  • Colchester Equines30687 Hidden Creek Ln, Locust Grove · ★ 5 (28)

    Colchester is an amazing place to advance your riding - whether you've never been on a horse or already have experience.

    From a Google review
  • Red Crest Guest Ranch LLC4040 Governor Almond Rd, Locust Grove · ★ 5 (11)

    This was my first time riding a horse and it was an amazing experience!

    From a Google review

Lorton 2 stables

Lovettsville 1 stable

  • Twin Oaks Farm37947 Morrisonville Rd, Lovettsville · ★ 4.6 (34)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Luray 1 stable

  • Skyland StablesSkyland Upper Loop, Luray · ★ 4.6 (82)
    Beginners: mentioned in 5 customer reviews

Manakin-Sabot 2 stables

  • Pine Crest Farm LLC1546 Deep Run Hunt Clb Ln, Manakin-Sabot · ★ 4.3 (27)

    When I was a beginner I wasn’t very sure of how I could progress as a rider.

    ★★★★★ N, Jul 2024
  • Manakin-Sabot Equestrian Center1541 Manakin Rd, Manakin-Sabot · ★ 5 (2)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Manassas 1 stable

  • Brentsville Stables8827 Brentsville Rd, Manassas · ★ 4.8 (16)

    Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider looking to improve your skills, Brentsville Stables is an outstanding place to learn and grow.

    From a Google review

McGaheysville 1 stable

Mechanicsville 1 stable

  • Stillmeadows Farm8472 Wyndale Dr, Mechanicsville · ★ 4.8 (20)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Midlothian 2 stables

Moneta 2 stables

  • Spring Valley Farm1191 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Moneta · ★ 4.9 (805)

    It was my daughter’s first time riding, and with Robby’s patient guidance, she was even able to canter her horse.

    From a Google review
  • Slocum's Appaloosa Ranch1674 Private Hills Ln, Moneta · ★ 4.3 (66)

    Very first time horseback riding for my sister’s birthday and we had a blast !

    ★★★★★ Rajaa, Jun 2025

Moseley 1 stable

  • Sweet Acres Farm8900 Beaver Bridge Rd, Moseley · ★ 5 (23)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Mt Crawford 1 stable

  • Hat Trick Equestrian6466 E Timber Ridge Rd, Mt Crawford · ★ 5 (1)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Nokesville 1 stable

  • Silver Eagle Stable11506 Parkgate Dr, Nokesville · ★ 4.6 (85)

    I have no experience in this field and they are so patient with me.

    From a Google review

Powhatan 3 stables

  • Zephyr's Way Stable2502 Genito Rd, Powhatan · ★ 4.9 (51)

    In less than a year, she’s gone from a complete beginner to confidently riding at an advanced level thanks to her weekly lessons with Mya.

    From a Google review
  • Level Green Riding School3350 John Tree Hill Rd, Powhatan · ★ 4.9 (19)
    Beginners: per the stable's website
  • Mesa Vista Farm2650 B, 2650 Judes Ferry Rd, Powhatan · ★ 4.9 (17)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Purcellville 2 stables

  • Dark Spring Stables16145 Mountain Ridge Ln, Purcellville · ★ 4.6 (67)

    These guided horse trail rides are pure magic — beginner-friendly and perfect for adult solo explorers or couples.

    ★★★★★ Ad, Jul 2025
  • Tsaheylu Farm36688 Philomont Rd, Purcellville · ★ 5 (20)

    So she is good with both beginners and experienced riders.

    From a Google review

Radford 1 stable

  • Ride-A-Rescue, Inc.100 High Meadows Pkwy, Radford · ★ 4.4 (9)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Richmond 1 stable

  • Hunter Lane Stables3578 Hunter Ln, Richmond · ★ 4.8 (34)

    I just took a beginner riding class through Chesterfield Parks and Rec that was taught at Hunter Lane Stables.

    ★★★★★ Emma, Mar 2021

Round Hill 1 stable

  • Serene Acres20075 Woodtrail Rd, Round Hill · ★ 4.5 (12)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Salem 1 stable

Shacklefords 1 stable

  • Whippoorwill Farm1789 Clancie Rd, Shacklefords · ★ 5 (14)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Smithfield 2 stables

  • Mill Swamp Indian Horses9285-9271 Moonlight Rd, Smithfield · ★ 4.8 (11)

    Have never ridden a horse before, how do I book?

    ★★★★★ Nicole, Oct 2024
  • Foxtail Farm16303 Morgarts Beach Rd, Smithfield · ★ 4.8 (10)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

South Boston 1 stable

  • Shangrila Guest Ranch3219 Cluster Springs Rd, South Boston · ★ 4.7 (31)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Spotsylvania Courthouse 1 stable

  • Bayberry Riding Center9110 Brock Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse · ★ 5 (6)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Stafford 1 stable

  • Iron Ponytail Farm54 Heflin Rd, Stafford · ★ 4.9 (18)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Staunton 3 stables

  • Star B Stables2926 Barterbrook Rd, Staunton · ★ 4.9 (86)

    Friendly and helpful staff and the horses were beautiful and beginner friendly.

    From a Google review
  • Ride with Pride2435 Shutterlee Mill Rd, Staunton · ★ 4.8 (44)
    Beginners: per the stable's website
  • Redmont Farm LLC2646 Spring Hill Rd, Staunton · ★ 5 (3)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Sterling 1 stable

  • Cedar Creek Farm19866 Youngs Cliff Rd, Sterling · ★ 4.5 (15)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Suffolk 2 stables

  • Harmonia Equestrian832 Copeland Rd, Suffolk · ★ 5 (50)

    They have an outstanding training program that both beginners and experienced riders can benefit from.

    From a Google review
  • SunFire Equestrian, LLC1913 Whaleyville Blvd, Suffolk · ★ 5 (10)

    They meet you where you are at in your riding journey from beginner to advanced they have the horses to support you and the instructors as well!

    From a Google review

Swoope 1 stable

  • North Mountain Outfitter Inc709 N Mountain Rd, Swoope · ★ 4.7 (59)

    I have ridden before and have experience so the ride was easy, but the horses are "bomb proof" and great enough for anyone who has no experience as well.

    From a Google review

Syria 1 stable

  • Graves Mountain Stables & Riding80 Apple Tree Ln, Syria · ★ 4.8 (65)

    Highly recommend for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a memorable way to enjoy the Blue Ridge mountains.

    From a Google review

Toano 1 stable

  • Stonehouse Stables2116-A Forge Rd, Toano · ★ 4.6 (54)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Troutdale 1 stable

Troutville 1 stable

  • Breezy Rock Stables at Ardmore4570 Country Club Rd, Troutville · ★ 5 (7)

    Breezy Rock has something to offer everyone from beginner to advance, child to adult.

    From a Google review

Virginia Beach 3 stables

  • Virginia Beach | (OBX) Horseback26th St, Virginia Beach · ★ 3.6 (73)

    The horses were beautifully cared for, calm, and clearly well-trained, making even first-time riders feel completely at ease.

    From a Google review
  • Ellis Equestrian Services LLC3756 Indian River Rd, Virginia Beach · ★ 4.6 (30)
    Beginners: per the stable's website
  • Thisldo Farm5379 Blackwater Loop, Virginia Beach · ★ 4.4 (14)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Warrenton 2 stables

  • Lemony Acres Horse Center7289 Greenbrier Rd, Warrenton · ★ 4.8 (21)
    Beginners: per the stable's website
  • White Oak Stables9385 Old Waterloo Rd, Warrenton · ★ 5 (15)

    I'm an adult beginner, and I had both Tobi and Jade as instructors.

    ★★★★★ Olivia, Feb 2025

Waynesboro 1 stable

  • Memory's Hill Stables905 Old White Bridge Rd, Waynesboro · ★ 5 (20)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Winchester 1 stable

  • Magic Mountain Farm151 Magic Mountain Rd, Winchester · ★ 4.9 (79)
    Beginners: per the stable's website

Beginner checklist

  1. Wear long pants and boots with a small heel. Flat sneakers can slip through a stirrup, and shorts let the saddle rub.
  2. Ask about helmets. Many stables lend riding helmets. Ask whether they have one that fits, or bring your own riding helmet.
  3. Tell them you are new. It gets you the right horse and the right pace.

Your first time on a horse →

Beginners in Virginia, by city

The number counts the stables on this page; each city link opens every riding stable we list there.

More in Virginia