About us
Our Story
Sweetlands Farm was established in 2013 by Victoria and Nigel Farmer.
What began as an empty field has been thoughtfully developed into the peaceful and welcoming environment it is today. Together, they shared a vision to create something special — a place centred around horses, nature and a slower, more considered way of life.
Named after Sweet, a much-loved mare, the farm reflects a deep-rooted passion for horses and the values they bring — patience, trust and quiet confidence.
Victoria is an experienced BHSAI qualified instructor and Safeguarding Officer. She has worked on several top yards in the UK and Europe, competed her homebred horse in Dressage, and bred champion Hanoverian foals.
Nigel has worked in farming since leaving agriculture collage and gaining his National Craftsman Certificate, he has worked tirelessly to build all the facilities. He oversees the day-to-day running of the farm, including producing our own hay and maintaining the yard and facilities.
Our Horses & Way of Life
The welfare of our horses and ponies is at the heart of everything we do.
We keep our horses as naturally as possible:
Living as a mixed herd,
Barefoot and carefully managed
Living out in the summer, with access to large open barns in the winter
This creates calm, settled ponies who are happy in their environment — something visitors often notice as soon as they arrive.
Time with Animals
Time at Sweetlands is not just about riding.
Visitors will soon be offered a chance to spend time with our Chickens and Royal Golden Guernsey goats — a rare and gentle breed chosen for their calm nature. Our Zwartbles Sheep and traditional rare breed Oxford and Sandy pigs.
Being around animals in this way helps to build confidence, encourage responsibility and create a deeper connection with the environment.
A Personal Approach
As a smaller establishment, we take the time to get to know each visitor.
Sessions can be adapted to suit the individual, whether they are new to ponies, love animals, enjoy time in the countryside, building confidence, or simply looking for a quieter and more personal experience.
Our Standards
Sweetlands Farm holds a 5★ Higher Standards riding school licence, the highest rating available, recognising excellent standards of horse welfare, safety and management.
We are also approved by the Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS+), meaning we meet recognised industry standards for coaching, care and professionalism.
Riders have the opportunity to work through structured levels, with rosettes and certificates awarded to recognise progress and build confidence — always at a pace that suits the individual, with no pressure to take part.
We were awarded Runner-Up in the SEIB Best Small Riding School UK Awards 2023 (2nd place nationally).
All staff and volunteers are friendly, dedicated and passionate about the farm and all of our animals.
All members of the team are DBS checked, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all riders.
