Andover Riding School, a cherished local equestrian centre, will close its doors for the final time at 5.00pm on Sunday 31st August 2025. The decision comes amid ongoing staffing challenges that have affected many rural and outdoor businesses, despite the dedication of its loyal team.
In a heartfelt statement, the owners expressed profound gratitude to the riding school’s many customers. “All of us at Andover Riding School want to thank you so much for all your heartfelt comments. You are so kind, and have been so loyal and supportive right to the end,” the announcement reads. Over the past ten years, the school has become a popular, busy hub for the community, consistently achieving five-star ratings on all licences and providing a friendly, therapeutic environment for riders of all ages.
The team paid special tribute to its staff, many of whom have been with the school for years and have become more like family than employees. Most are now moving on to full-time careers, and the owners wished them happiness and success in the future.
Equally celebrated are the school’s horses, which have brought joy to children from three years old and adults alike. Some will remain with the owners, while others have been carefully rehomed to loving, permanent homes.
To mark the closure, past and present customers are warmly invited to a farewell gathering at the school on Sunday 31st August from 5.00pm to 7.00pm. Guests are encouraged to bring snacks, cakes or biscuits if possible. An overflow car park will be available in one of the paddocks to accommodate attendees, with access directly on the right as you turn in from the road.
“We have loved having you all at the riding school over the last 10 years and we are going to MISS YOU ALL so much. Your support has helped make Andover Riding School the successful, busy, popular place that it still is,” the statement continues. “It is going to be very special, although under a sad cloud, and we hope to see as many of you as possible to share some happy memories one last time.”
The closure marks the end of a decade-long chapter for Andover’s equestrian community, but the connections, memories, and skills nurtured at the school will endure.
