Essential tips when building a horse riding arena on your property

There are many reasons to love horses. For a start, riding is all-round great exercise. Far more importantly than that, horses are beloved creatures that become part of the family - so why wouldn’t you want them at home with you rather than being stabled elsewhere?

Having stables and a horse-riding arena on your property removes the need to regularly transport your horses and enables you to give them a luxurious home and a wonderful life. Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty takes a deep dive into how to build a horse-riding arena that will keep your equine friends healthy and stimulated.

Your property inspiration

The horse-riding arena in this stunning Hout Bay home is neat and spacious, offering plenty of opportunities for your horse to enjoy a safe and comfortable environment. According to Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International property practitioner, David Burger, training rings and paddocks need to be sized suitably for horses to have enough space. “Irrigated paddocks are a bonus and allow for natural grass grazing,” he adds. “Border fencing should be practical. They are typically made using timber posts and a cross-pole design.”

To this, the current homeowner adds that when you’re planning your horse-riding arena, you should ensure that you have the horse’s best interests at heart. “Layout and design should enhance the overall aesthetic of the property,” she shared. “It is also important to maintain the arena to prevent it looking worn out and dilapidated. 

Top tips to bear in mind when designing your horse-riding arena

Arena surroundings and access

Choose a part of your property where there will be minimal distractions and disturbances for the horses. A part of your property that’s far from busy roads, loud noises or other potential stressors will be ideal. You also need to think about providing easy access to the arena for riders, horses and spectators. Consider pathways and parking areas for trailers and vehicles.

Think practical: fencing and lighting

Use sturdy, horse-safe fencing around the perimeter of your horse-riding arena to prevent horses from escaping or injuring themselves. Once your fence has been installed, ensure that there are no sharp edges anywhere that could injure a horse. When it comes to lighting, plan ahead for evening riding sessions by installing lighting fixtures that minimise shadows and glare. Don’t forget to take safety considerations into account. You can also install mirrors for riders to monitor their form, as well as protective barriers or padding in critical areas.

Plan the shape strategically

While it’s important to make the most of the space you have available, it’s also important to avoid corners - for your own safety as well as that of your horses. Make sure the area is free of any natural obstacles or uneven terrain that could pose a hazard.

Add features to diversify your training potential

Engage both horses and riders by installing features like poles, jumps, cones and other agility equipment in your horse-riding arena.

Make your horse-riding arena Instagram-worthy

 Another factor to think about is aesthetics. You can enhance the surrounding landscape with greenery, fencing and other decorative elements. Make sure that you follow a regular maintenance schedule that includes cleaning the arena surface, checking fencing and promptly addressing any issues.

Your home should inspire you

Your horse-riding arena will be an outdoor haven where you get to enjoy all the benefits of exercise, the great outdoors and quality time with your magnificent horses. If you’re looking for a home that already has a mindfully constructed horse riding arena, then get in touch with the team from Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.