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Time to read 4 min
Horse riding is a popular leisure activity for both children and adults. But what does it actually cost? This article focuses on typical riding school lessons in Denmark.
Riding lessons at a riding school or riding club typically cost DKK 400–800 per month for one weekly group lesson, depending on location, age and level.
An annual club membership fee is mandatory for all riders. This usually costs DKK 300–600 per year for children and DKK 400–800 for adults.
Riding lessons for children are often slightly cheaper per month than for adults.
A trial lesson typically costs DKK 150–225.
The price of riding lessons can vary depending on the region and the club. In larger cities, some riding schools offer different prices for local members and riders from other municipalities.
Most riding schools charge monthly fees for lessons, although some also offer lesson passes or pay-per-ride options.
You should also be aware that transport costs and personal riding equipment are additional expenses on top of the regular lesson fees and membership.
When you start riding, your main expenses will be the monthly fee for group lessons and the annual club membership.
Most riding schools organise their teaching as weekly group lessons paid monthly.
To sign up for riding lessons, you must first become a member of the riding club. The annual membership fee must be paid before you can enrol in lessons.
Children’s beginner groups: DKK 400–650 per month for one weekly lesson
Adult beginner groups: DKK 500–800 per month for one weekly lesson
Lesson passes or single lessons: approx. DKK 150–200 per lesson
For parents considering horse riding lessons for their children, it is important to understand the expected costs.
Prices vary depending on age, skill level and the location of the riding school. In general, junior riders pay slightly less than senior riders.
Example monthly prices for children aged 6-17
| Lesson type | Approx. price per month |
| Beginner group | DKK 400-600 |
| Intermediate + jumping lessons | DKK 550-750 |
| Mini pony groups | DKK 250-400 |
| Junior groups | DKK 350-450 |
Annual membership fee: approx. DKK 300–600
Holiday riding camps: approx. DKK 1,500–3,000 for a week
Therapeutic riding for children with special needs: approx. DKK 1,000–1,700 per month
Safety equipment for children is mandatory and should be included in the first year’s cost.
An approved riding helmet and possibly a body protector are essential.
In addition to the monthly lesson fee, there are several other costs to be aware of when joining a riding club.
Cancelled lessons without refunds at some riding schools
Competition entry fees: DKK 80–200 per class
Competition licence for larger shows
Facility access passes for arena use at some clubs: DKK 200–400 per month
Example, first-year cost estimate
(For a new rider without their own horse)
| Expense | Approx. cost |
| Registration + membership | DKK 400-800 |
| Group lessons (12 months) | DKK 5,400-9,600 |
| Starter equipment | DKK 800-2,000 |
| Total | approx. 7,000-12,000 |
As a new rider, you do not need to invest in expensive equipment right away. Here are realistic price levels for basic gear when bought new.
Riding helmet (VG1 approved): DKK 500–900
Riding breeches: DKK 300–800
Riding boots or jodhpurs + half chaps: DKK 300–800
Riding gloves: DKK 100–200
Borrow a riding whip or body protector from the riding school at the beginning
Look for sales and special offers
Buy second-hand equipment via local marketplaces or Facebook groups at half price
Important: Never buy a riding helmet second-hand. You cannot know whether it has previously been damaged in a fall, which could compromise safety.
Horse riding does not have to be an expensive hobby if you plan carefully. Here are some practical tips to keep costs manageable when you or your child start riding.
Start with one weekly lesson instead of multiple lessons until you know the interest will last
Buy second-hand riding equipment or shop sales (except for the helmet)
Choose a local riding club to reduce transport costs
Typical riding school lessons are slightly more expensive than sports such as football or handball, but often comparable to competitive swimming or music lessons. The difference is mainly due to the cost of keeping horses, maintaining stables, and the individual attention from instructors.
Yes. Many riding schools offer a trial lesson for DKK 150–225. Some clubs allow a maximum of two trial lessons before membership is required. Ask locally about introductory courses, which some clubs offer at discounted prices. It can be a good idea to clarify the terms before committing to a membership. Be aware that many clubs also require one month’s notice for cancellation.
No. Most beginners and children ride school horses or ponies provided by the riding school. Owning your own horse involves significantly higher fixed costs such as livery, feed, veterinary care and the farrier. A stable box at a riding centre typically costs DKK 3,000–6,000 per month.
Group lessons at a riding school usually last 45–60 minutes, of which 30–45 minutes are actual riding time. The remaining time is typically spent tacking up and untacking the horse. Children’s groups and mini pony groups sometimes last 30 minutes, usually at a lower price.
Local club competitions usually require an entry fee of DKK 80–150 per class, and sometimes a lesson horse rental fee for the competition day. Additional costs may include competition licences, transport, and more formal riding attire such as a white show shirt and a dark competition jacket. Check the lesson schedule and competition calendar on your club’s website to plan your expenses throughout the year.
