Russells Equestrian Centre is owned and managed by founder Carol Boulton and her daughter Verity Tidmarsh.
We offer individual and group lessons for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders, and can cater to riders with a wide range of additional needs. We take an ethical, holistic, and safety-focused approach to horse training and rider tuition, and are committed to helping you become the best rider you can be.
Since horsemanship is not limited to riding, we also offer a range of unmounted clinics and lessons on topics including groundwork and stable management. We also offer opportunities for children and adults to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of time with horses and ponies, whether that’s through learning to draw ponies, developing the skills to understand their behavior, or simply meeting a horse and enjoying their calming energy in a safe space.
Our Accreditations and Approach
As a fully licensed and insured facility, we are British Horse Society and ABRS+ approved, hold the Riding for the Disabled Association accessibility mark, and operate as a Pony Club Centre. We strive for recognition as a centre of excellence and blend traditional techniques with innovative methodologies such as:
- Classical dressage
- Ride With Your Mind®
- Clicker training
- NLP (neuro-linguistic programming)
- Equine-assisted growth and learning (EAGALA)
Additional Services
Beyond our riding programs, we offer tailored livery services to suit all budgets and lifestyles. We also specialize in guiding new horse owners through the exciting journey of buying and caring for their first horse.
The Epona Trust
For many years, we have provided a safe and supportive environment for horses and ponies that require specialized care and attention, enabling them to live a healthy and fulfilling life. In 1993, we established The Epona Trust to ensure that these horses and ponies are permanently cared for and protected. Many of the Epona Trust horses are used in riding lessons, while others are retired or used in groundwork lessons only. The Epona Trust operates on a non-profit basis and is overseen by Trustees and a committee. Learn more at www.theeponatrust.org.
Stay Connected
For our latest news and events, be sure to follow our Facebook page!
Grazing Update
The latest information about our summer grazing licence and our associated petition can now be found here. Thank you for your ongoing support.
What Our Riders Say
Russells is a place to really learn the true art of horsemanship, whether on the ground or in the saddle. Carol and Verity have created a community where different skill levels share knowledge and continue to want to know more. For me, it’s totally transformed how I look at interacting with horses…and it’s a beautiful thing.
L.
Russells people and ponies are a family: we support, care and stand up for one another. My first half hour lesson at Russells over seven years ago changed my life for ever.
A.
Thanks to Carol and Verity’s patience and guidance, I’ve developed a far better understanding of horse and rider biomechanics, which has in turn made me feel much safer and more secure in the saddle. On the ground, I’m much more confident with horses than I ever was and have learned an immense amount about horse care and stable management.
R.
Licensure
We are proud to hold a 5-star licence from Eastleigh Borough Council.
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Proprietors Miss Verity Tidmarsh and Mrs Carol Boulton
Licence Number: NO: LC201909-3061
Website last updated: 7/09/2025