Set on Rakewood near Hollingworth Lake, Dickey Steps Riding School has been a family-run establishment since 1979, providing riding tuition and hacking in the countryside above Littleborough. The school caters to a wide range of abilities, welcoming beginners through to experienced riders preparing for British Horse Society examinations. Children are also taught, with sessions tailored to younger riders.
Lessons are available both as group and private sessions, with stable management tuition offered alongside ridden work. Riders can head out on hacks and pony trekking routes through the surrounding lanes and moorland, with hacks lasting around 45 minutes. A Pony for the Day experience allows visitors to spend extended time caring for and riding a horse, and equine assisted learning is offered for those looking at horse-based activities beyond riding. The school supports candidates working towards BHS examinations.
Facilities include an outdoor floodlit menage used for lessons and schooling, a cross country area for riders wanting to try jumping over solid fences, and on-site parking for visitors arriving by car. Rides and lessons take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and the school operates all year round, closing only in adverse weather such as ice or snow. Prices start from around GBP 20 for a hack.
Dickey Steps holds a riding establishment licence (number 000113), issued by the local authority. The postcode for sat-nav users is OL15 0AS. Anyone interested in booking lessons, arranging a hack, or finding out more about the Pony for the Day sessions should contact the school directly to check availability and confirm lesson pricing.