_A guide to buying equestrian property in the UK

Most importantly, it needs to be right for you, your current and future needs and the horses it will accommodate. Knight Frank's equestrian property expert and Head of National Country Sales Rupert Sweeting offers useful tips for anyone searching for a property with stables.

Research, research, research

Britain has always been a good base for international riders because it has a concentration of equestrian talent, prestigious shows, superb quality of tuition and strong supporting services, from vets to financial backers.

Equestrian property in the UK is in demand so it is important to do your research and get to know the market. There are a handful of equestrian property specialists that you can register your interest with.

Knight Frank's equestrian property team is one of the most experience and active in the market, on hand to help you make the right decisions based on your unique criteria. 

Land 

A good question to ask when viewing potential sites is what type of soil the land is made up of. Land is one of the most important factors to 'get right' when looking for equestrian property. Ideally, look for free draining soil with some limestone in it. The latter helps grow strong bones for young stock and the former enables horses to be turned out for 12 months of the year. 

If on heavy clay, this precludes horses from being put out during wet periods and in the winter while sandy clay may be ingested and cause colic.

When viewing properties also consider factors such as the availability of shade, water and shelter in paddock areas as well as the ability to purchase additional land if required. The land should be able to be split easily, allowing rotation of grazing spots.

Above: American barns are designed to keep everything under one roof. Cool during the summer months and warm in winter they are the best choice for both 'hobby riders' and professionals. 

Stables

When presented with the choice of a traditional stable yard or an American barn, Rupert Sweeting recommends the latter. Popular in working yards such as liveries and riding schools, American barns are designed to keep everything under one roof, allowing owners to incorporate many extra conveniences such as a tack room, storage for feed, riding equipment or offices. 

American barns also enable the free flow of air to minimise damp and disease risk as well as being quicker to muck out and manage. If possible, stables should face away from the wind.

Out buildings

Always convenient are additional barns or out buildings – ideal for storage of hay or horse boxes. 

Location 

As with all property purchases, the right location is important but there are a number of factors to consider such as whether the equestrian property will be used for business purposes or for pleasure. Ideal is a quiet part of the countryside with access to bridal paths enabling exercise to take place over a far distance.

The property should also be located close to good communications such as a dual carriageway or motorways, allowing fast access to shows, racecourses or other events. 

Local amenities are also worth asking about. A good horse vet in the vicinity is a must and a local horse community and good accessibility is beneficial if you're planning to run a business from your equestrian property.

Manège

An indoor Olympic sized arena is top of everyone’s wish list! Failing that an outside arena will suffice.

Gallops 

For those who are looking to train race horses or for the fitness of an event, an all-weather gallop is ideal. 

Accommodation

If you will be employing staff consider whether the property has a small house or flat very close to the stables – this is for ease of access as well as for security purposes. 

Buyers that want to keep horses as a hobby tend to put much more weight on the size and type of property they will consider and compromise on stable size and space. We can help you find what's right for you.

Whether professional/business owner or a 'hobby rider'  Knight Frank markets a wide range of properties with equestrian facilities/stables - from large estates, to family-sized homes and historic buildings. 

Can how Knight Frank help?

Our team is made up of keen riders, including some amateur and professional show jumpers and jockeys!

This means that we have a deep understanding of all things equestrian related. Through our experience we are able to offer you accurate and grounded advice to help you make the right purchase, and manage the ongoing investment.

Our equestrian property services include property appraisals, project management, property management and lettings.