Lochie, who rides at Centennial Equestrian, competing on his horse, Paddy. Image by Annabel Zeisler/Centennial Equestrian.
Tucked away in the lush green embrace of Sydney’s iconic Centennial Parklands, you’ll find a world that moves to the gentle rhythm of hoofbeats. Centennial Equestrian isn’t just a riding school – it’s a rare urban sanctuary where horses, riders, and the bustle of the city meet in harmony.
Although only a short journey from the CBD, the pace of the city softens at Centennial Equestrian, offering riders space to slow down, reconnect, and experience the joy of horsemanship.
Instructor Julia competing on the international show jumping circuit.
AN OASIS FOR RIDERS IN THE CITY
For many, the idea of horse riding conjures images of sprawling countryside estates – not a park in the middle of Australia’s busiest city. Yet, step through the gates of Centennial Park Equestrian Centre, and the city noise fades instantly. More than a riding school, Centennial Equestrian is a place where riders of all levels come together to learn, spend time with horses, and be part of a connected equestrian community.
“It’s always a surprise to people that this space exists,” says Vanessa, the owner of Centennial Equestrian. “You can finish work in the city and be here within minutes, connecting with our beautiful horses, enjoying riding through Centennial Park and switching off.”
Vanessa’s journey with horses began long before Centennial Equestrian took shape. A lifelong rider and now mum to keen dressage and showjumping competitor Lochie, she has long envisioned a place that brought equestrian life into the heart of Sydney – accessible, inclusive, and with world-class coaching.
“Great coaching makes great riders,” says Vanessa. “We’ve built a team of experienced coaches who understand what riders need at every stage.” That vision has grown into a thriving community where beginners build confidence and experienced riders continue to develop, supported by a team of expert coaches.
Many bring international competition experience across dressage, showjumping and eventing, ensuring riders of all levels benefit from high-quality instruction grounded in both knowledge and real-world performance.
A HOLISTIC EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE
Centennial Equestrian caters to every rider, whether taking their first lesson or preparing for competition. Beginners learn the fundamentals of riding and horse care in a safe, supportive environment, while experienced riders refine their skills with expert guidance.
For young riders, school holiday pony camps offer a hands-on introduction to horsemanship, combining lessons, horse care, and fun activities that build confidence and foster a love of riding.
Riding around Centennial Parklands.
“Centennial Equestrian
caters to every rider…“
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there is a beautiful 4km trail riding loop around Centennial Park, providing a unique way to explore Sydney’s landscape from the saddle. These rides are popular with tourists and locals alike, offering a peaceful escape just minutes from the CBD.
Riders aiming to challenge themselves and move up the levels can take part in competition nights, hosted monthly at the centre – including dressage, show jumping and showing. These events give riders of all levels the opportunity to test their skills in a supportive, community-focused environment.
Instructor Zoe assisting Centennial Equestrian’s mini riders at CPEC Show Horse Night. Image by Hugo Minetti Visuals/Centennial Equestrian.
A group ride in the Equestrian Grounds in Centennial Park.
SYDNEY’S HIDDEN EQUESTRIAN GEM
There’s nothing quite like riding in Centennial Park. Stretching across 189 hectares of heritage parklands, the horse track winds past ponds, open lawns, and towering Moreton Bay figs. From the saddle, glimpses of the city skyline peek through the trees – a reminder that this serene escape sits at the centre of Australia’s largest city. Reaching the Equestrian Grounds within the park gives riders access to multi-purpose all weather arenas complete with state-of-the-art show jumps, an all-weather canter track, grass arenas and a selection of cross-country jumps.
Every lesson and ride at Centennial Equestrian is shaped by the location. Lessons unfold in the gentle breeze under the sun, surrounded by the sounds of the park with runners, cyclists, and picnickers sharing the space. Still, the focus is clear: the escape from the everyday, and partnership between rider and horse.
The horses of Centennial Equestrian are more than just riding school mounts; they’re cherished partners, each with a personality that riders come to know and love. “Our horses give so much to our community,” adds Vanessa. “They’re athletes, teachers, and companions”.
Beyond the lessons, there’s a genuine sense of belonging here. Regular riders chat between classes, share stable chores and gather for special events and competitions. Parents watch proudly from the sidelines as their children learn not just to ride, but communicate, care and build a special bond with their four-legged friends.
“Our horses give so
much to our community.”
AN EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY IN THE HEART OF THE CITY
As Sydney continues to evolve, Centennial Equestrian remains a constant – a peaceful community where riders find balance, joy, and connection. Vanessa smiles as she watches a young student trot confidently past. “That’s why we do this,” she says. “To give people a place to disconnect, to learn, and to experience the incredible bond that comes from riding a horse in the heart of this city.”
Lochie competing on his new horse, Ducky. Image by Rodney’s Photography/Centennial Equestrian.
Centennial Equestrian proves that you don’t need to leave the city to experience the joy, and connection of riding and horsemanship. It’s more than a riding school; it’s a place to slow down, discover your passion for horses, and be part of Sydney’s hidden equestrian community. EQ
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