Arrow Riding Centre For The Disabled

Therapeutic Horse Riding in a Supportive & Inclusive Environment

Arrow Riding Centre is a volunteer-run charity providing therapeutic and competitive riding lessons for young people and adults with special needs. Based in Dartford, Kent, we offer tailored programmes developed by qualified coaches and physiotherapists to help riders unlock their potential both on and off the horse.

Founded in 1982 by the Dartford Lions, we are entirely self-funded, raising over £140,000 per year to continue delivering life-changing equine experiences.

Why Choose Arrow Riding Centre?

✔ Inclusive Riding Programmes – Tailored to all ages and a wide range of disabilities.
✔ Therapeutic & Competitive Opportunities – From pleasure riding to para dressage training.
✔ Experienced Team – Qualified instructors and physiotherapists working hand-in-hand.
✔ Friendly Volunteer Community – Helping us make every ride possible.
✔ Charity Registered (No. 291623) – Every donation supports inclusive equestrian activities.

Facilities at Arrow

🏇 Indoor Arena (20x40m) – All-weather surface, training mirrors, viewing gallery.
🌟 Now Available for Hire (Sundays) – £30/hr for 2 horses, £5 per additional horse.
🏟 Outdoor Arena (20x50m) – Floodlit, all-weather surface for year-round use.
🏡 The Yard – Rubber-matted stables (up to 28 horses), dedicated tack & feed rooms.
🌳 Set Within Darenth Country Park – 35 acres of grazing, private bridleways & woodland walks.
📽 Conference Facilities – Two rooms with disabled access, screens, flipcharts, lifts, accessible changing and shower rooms.
🚗 Extensive Car Parking – Large capacity with overflow facilities available.

Get Involved – Become a Volunteer

Our riders need support during their sessions—and each lesson can require up to three volunteers per rider. Whether you have horse experience or not, your time and support will make a tremendous difference.

🙌 No experience necessary – Full guidance and training provided.
🕒 Flexible commitments – Volunteer as little or as often as you can.
💬 We’d love to hear from you!

Support Arrow Riding Centre

We rely entirely on donations and fundraising to continue offering our services. If you’d like to learn more or support our latest projects—such as updating the indoor arena—please visit our fundraising pages or get in touch.