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Horse Riding

Western Plains Riding Centre

πŸ“ Dubbo, NSW

β˜…4.8(75 Google reviews)πŸ’°$120πŸ‘ΆAll ages

Established riding school in Dubbo offering private lessons for beginners, group sessions for experienced riders, and school holiday horsemanship clinics covering grooming, saddling, and handling. Horses matched carefully to rider ability from age 4.

βœ“ Professional instructionβœ“ Beginner-friendlyβœ“ Ages 4 and upβœ“ Patient with nervous ridersβœ“ School holiday clinicsβœ“ Well-matched horses
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β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Gerry Tucker

My wife and I have previously done short tourist rides and more, up to fortnight-long horse-camping in mountains, on four continents; our grandson had never ridden solo before. We give Western Plains Riding Centre a clear five star rating because of the professional and personable service of the Centre’s personnel to ensure a safe, interesting and enjoyable ride, in particular: β€’. the induction crew, for pleasantly and efficiently getting us signed up, kitted up, and up on our assigned horses β€’ Emma, for her informed and low-key guidance on set up and riding, her careful assessment of each rider in the ring before we set off across the paddocks, and her continuing riding tips throughout the ride - this was definitely the safest and most informative short tourist ride I’ve ever had, and I’m very happy that our only grandson was in Emma’s hands β€’ Lead Rider Ruby for her friendly and generous insights as a born-&-bred Western Plains teenager - very interesting for us Each assigned horse was appropriate for its rider, and the tack was in good shape. Exceptional value for money πŸ™

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

Best for families wanting proper riding instruction rather than a scenic trail ride. Instructors are professional, safety-focused, and skilled at managing nervous riders β€” two people with cold feet at the last minute are a documented success story here. Children as young as 4 are catered for.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘Call ahead to arrange visits β€” the centre operates by appointment rather than drop-in
⏰All equipment is provided; horses are matched to each rider's experience and confidence level
🎟️School holiday clinics cover grooming, saddling, and horse handling alongside riding
πŸš—Nervous riders and those who change their mind last minute are handled patiently by staff

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.8
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75 Google reviews

Professional and safety-focused instruction45%
Well-matched horses for all ability levels30%
Excellent with nervous and first-time riders15%
Good for wide age range including young children10%
G

Gerry Tucker

11 months ago

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β€œMy wife and I have previously done short tourist rides and more, up to fortnight-long horse-camping in mountains, on four continents; our grandson had never ridden solo before. We give Western Plains Riding Centre a clear five star rating because of the professional and personable service of the Centre’s personnel to ensure a safe, interesting and enjoyable ride, in particular: β€’. the induction crew, for pleasantly and efficiently getting us signed up, kitted up, and up on our assigned horses β€’ Emma, for her informed and low-key guidance on set up and riding, her careful assessment of each rider in the ring before we set off across the paddocks, and her continuing riding tips throughout the ride - this was definitely the safest and most informative short tourist ride I’ve ever had, and I’m very happy that our only grandson was in Emma’s hands β€’ Lead Rider Ruby for her friendly and generous insights as a born-&-bred Western Plains teenager - very interesting for us Each assigned horse was appropriate for its rider, and the tack was in good shape. Exceptional value for money πŸ™β€

R

Reviewing With Tom

2 months ago

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β€œWestern Plains Riding Centre is a well-run equestrian facility with a calm, structured environment that suits riders of all levels. The horses are clearly well cared for, well matched to riders, and trained to provide safe, confident experiences whether you’re learning or refining skills. Instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and focused on technique and safety without making the session feel strict or stressful. They pay attention to rider ability, give clear guidance, and build confidence in a natural, steady way. The grounds are tidy and well maintained, with safe arenas, good footing, and a layout that makes lessons run smoothly. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly β€” serious about horses, but welcoming for all ages. A strong choice in Dubbo for anyone interested in riding lessons, horse care skills, or simply spending time around well-managed horses. Best for: riding lessons, confidence building, beginner–intermediate riders Not for: people expecting trail rides or fast-paced tourist-style experiences”

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HARP Regal Brows & Beauty

6 months ago

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β€œMy kids (aged 11 and 4) absolutely loved their horse riding training at Western Plains Riding Centre. Both trainers were amazing and super friendly, which made the whole experience even better. We’ll definitely be coming back and highly recommend it to others. Thanks again and see you soon!”

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Rebecca Boehme

a month ago

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β€œThanks for a nice experience in Dubbo. Staff were friendly and encouraging as two people in our group hadn't ridden before and got cold feet at the last minute. Horses were beautiful, quiet and easy going.”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Western Plains Riding Centre provides structured riding instruction across all experience levels. Private half-hour lessons suit beginners aged 5+, with pony experiences available for under-5s. Group sessions cater to more experienced riders. School holiday clinics extend beyond riding to include grooming, saddling, and horse handling skills. Horses are matched carefully to each rider's ability and temperament, with particular attention to nervous first-timers.

πŸ• Opening Hours

Tuesday09:00 – 17:30
Wednesday09:00 – 17:30
Thursday09:00 – 17:30
Friday09:00 – 17:30
Saturday09:00 – 17:30
Sunday09:00 – 17:30

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