The Farm at SummitWynds
Holden
The Farm at SummitWynds is a hub for horse lovers of all kinds. With lessons by Heron’s Crest Stables to copious Farm Experiences and pony rides, you’ll never tire of the opportunities presented here. Always a summertime highlight, SummitWynds hosts the Lavender Farm Experience—this year running June 25 - 27 and July 2 - 4. Visit the farm animals, take a nature walk and soak in the calming smells of summer.
Orchard Hill Equestrian Center
Berlin
Orchard Hill Equestrian Center is a luxury equestrian facility located in Berlin, whose team “warmly welcomes serious competitors and recreational riders.” As a family-owned and operated spot, Orchard Hill is utilized for boarding, XC schooling, summer programs and lively competitive events.
Maplewood Farm
Berlin
Just 15 minutes outside Worcester, Maplewood Farm is a state-of-the-art facility offering year-round instruction and personal attention for competitive success. Their summer programs offer kiddos an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the equestrian world—with hands-on experience in grooming and care, horsemanship and riding.
Berlin Farms
Berlin
Berlin Farms is a historic spot, with horseback riding instruction for all levels and disciplines. Senior licensed instructors teach lessons in hunt seat equitation, as well as in dressage and stadium jumping. At Berlin Farms, a British Horse Society-trained instructor is available full-time, plus a riding facility that includes an outdoor arena, gallop field and 24 acres of pastures leading to woods and various trails.
Clover Hill Equestrian Center
Berlin
In the heart of Berlin lies Clover Hill Equestrian Center, a full-service facility on over 40 acres that make up Great Oak Farm. From lessons and training to horse showing and boarding, the community of Clover Hill has astoundingly positive things to say about this local spot. Ashly Snell (from Dover Saddlery) says, “Clover Hill is the only place where I've kept my horses where I have no anxiety about their care. My horses are happier than they've ever been.” And the nurturing environment here makes a great spot for young and budding learners.
Canterbury Acres
Spencer
With a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, Canterbury Acres prides itself on catering to all disciplines, including Pony Parties with indoor and outdoor celebration options, as well as a Special Needs Riding Program—featuring a Back to Basics component, to children and adults with special needs. The program is “the realization of a dream held by owner Carol Kurland,” says the Canterbury Acres team. All lessons are taught by a Massachusetts Licensed Riding Instructor.
Camp Marshall Equestrian Center
Spencer
Another Spencer gem, the Camp Marshall Equestrian Center is home to many horse shows in the area. You can check out all show dates offered here for summertime viewing fun. Camp Marshall also hosts a Year End Awards Banquet in the fall, which brings together equestrian fanatics from all over.
Whip-O-Will Stables
Dudley
If a Pony Palooza sounds up your alley, be sure to check out Whip-O-Will Stables, a spot in Dudley that extends educational experiences to toddlers. (But lessons book up quickly, so if interested, head to their registration page for more info and signup options.) Additional summer options include their Neigh & Play Summer Horse Program with semi-private riding lessons in a creative environment. Registration for that can be found here.
Four Winds Equestrian Center
North Oxford
Home to the Assumption College Riding Team, Four Winds Equestrian Center hosts many IEA and IHSA shows on its impressive 33-acre farm. Specializing in Hunter/Jumpers and Equitation, Four Winds holds a high standard in its ethos: “While striving to bring students to the height of their ability, our real focus is on empowering children and educating them on the proper handling and care of horses.”
Azrael Acres
Uxbridge
Uxbridge’s Azrael Acres is a perfect spot for those intrigued by riding and competing (or simply for a visit!). Clinics and schooling shows are offered on property, and the facility hosts over eight shows per summer. Azrael Acres’ Horse Academy is a lovely introduction for kiddos interested in all things equestrian. You can find summer dates and registration for the Horse Academy, offered during three separate weeks in July and August, linked here.
Hillside Meadows Equestrian Center
Grafton
Hillside Meadows is a super family-friendly spot and home to the Boston College Equestrian Team, located on a vast 70 acres in Grafton. Established in 2003, Hillsides Meadows has since evolved into a multi discipline full service equestrian center with lessons and training for all.
Equestrian discovery does not stop here! If you’re involved in the horseriding space—beginner, visitor or expert—let us know how you’re taking advantage of Central Mass. offerings this summer and fall to come.
