Farmland UK
There are currently several million horses in the UK. The equestrian industry is growing in popularity every year. Whereas several years ago many rode horses from riding schools, higher disposal incomes combined with more leisure time has lead to the growth of the leisure rider, who have their own horse or horses.
Most private owners keep their horses at equestrian yards, paying a 'livery' either to have the horse looked after or as rental for a stable or shared field. Horse livery can be expensive anything from £25 to £120 per week and it is effectively dead money.
Hence, many equestrians are looking at the alternative of buying their own land, replacing the livery with mortgage or loan. At least the land will be theirs at the end and also available for other equestrian use.
What is the average equestrian looking for? At a basic level, it is reasonable quality pastureland with stock proof fencing or hedging, with a water supply for a drinking trough. They don't usually require or want large acreage. Infact, most would want less than 10 acres and 2 to 5 would be ideal. The usual assumed ratio to sustain a horse, if it does not spend most of its time in a stable, is one to two acres per animal.
Good equestrian land comes with a quite location, preferably with good hacking. No surprise therefore that the New Forest commands one of the highest prices per acre for equestrian land. Even in greater London, an acre or so of land on a quiet suburban road is more desirable to the equestrian than something adjacent to the Hayes by-pass!
Another major factor is facilities. These range from simply having water laid on to stables and a floodlit manege to ride your equine in the dark mornings and evenings.
But most equestrians are fanatical about their hobby, it is more of a lifestyle. Many are contented with an acre or two of ground. They can create or purchase a field shelter to protect their equines from adverse weather and use car lights or torches to help them see when the nights draw in.
- James M
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