What to consider when buying an equestrian property

Security should also be a key factor, says Rupert Sturgis, Knight Frank’s Cirencester Office Head. “Beyond the fencing infrastructure, many buyers like a property where the house overlooks the land, allowing them to keep an eye on their horses more easily.”

Location is key

Pay attention to the amount, and type, of land. “Most will require somewhere relatively flat, with good grazing and an adequate water supply,” Katherine advises. The British Horse Society recommends a minimum of 1-1.5 acres per horse, although this can change depending on the size and type of breed.

When considering a property, allow ample space for larger vehicles such as horseboxes, feed and hay deliveries or muck removal, Katherine advises. “Larger horseboxes can need extra turning space and access off some country lanes can be tricky. The ideal is if the main house and yard have separate entrances.”

Where to buy

A rider’s discipline can dictate in large part where in the country they may want to live, but for many this also has to be balanced with a location that can offer an excellent family life too.

The Cotswolds and surrounding areas remain popular, offering a well‑established equestrian community alongside excellent schools and five‑star amenities. Rupert highlights the importance of connectivity: “You can reach the M4 and M5 corridors quickly, access the Fosse Way easily, and Heathrow is within reasonable distance for those travelling internationally to compete.”

The region also benefits from world‑class events and facilities, including Badminton Horse Trials, the Cheltenham Festival and Cirencester Park Polo Club, supported by extensive equestrian infrastructure and training opportunities. A strong grassroots scene thrives here too, exemplified by the Heythrop Hunt Pony Club around Chipping Norton, Burford and Stow‑on‑the‑Wold – one of the largest pony clubs in the UK.

Elsewhere, experienced riders may look to Suffolk, where Newmarket’s global reputation as a centre of horse racing attracts equine enthusiasts from around the world, or to Lambourn in Berkshire, where racehorse breeding and training are firmly embedded in local life.

In the south, buyers may be drawn to the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead, widely regarded as the home of British showjumping. It hosts the Royal International Horse Show, the Derby Meeting and the National Schools Finals each year. Also in the South East is Cowdray Park near Midhurst, famed for its Gold Cup polo tournament each July. From April onwards, the Midhurst area becomes a hub for international polo teams, many of whom fly their ponies in for the season.

The South East’s access to continental Europe is another draw, with proximity to ports easing travel to competitions in France, Holland, Germany and Ireland. “Many riders also now head to the Sunshine Tour and MET Oliva in Spain which hold a number of showjumping competitions during the winter months,” says Katherine. “This isn’t only for professionals – many enthusiastic amateur riders love the opportunity to gain experience of competing abroad.”