The Centre of Horseback Combat

The Centre of Horseback Combat operates from a licensed site on the Gaddesden Estate in Hemel Hempstead and takes a distinctive approach to equestrian training. Rather than focusing on conventional riding school lessons, the centre teaches a range of mounted combat and performance disciplines including horseback archery, Dzhigitovka, Cossack trick riding, stunt riding, Roman riding and tent pegging. Riders can also book cross country sessions over a 32-fence course and gun shooting from horseback. Courses are run for adults and children, with the centre confirming that beginners are welcome.

Lessons cover trick and Roman riding, Dzhigitovka, horse archery and broader rider confidence training, alongside school holiday camps for younger riders. Bespoke photography, filming and media stunt services are available for outside clients, and gift vouchers can be purchased for those looking to book an experience. The centre's confidence courses for children sit alongside its stunt and archery work, giving it a dual role as both a training ground and an events venue.

The setting is historic: horses are stabled in a converted coach house, with rubber matting throughout and individual all-year turnout available. An outdoor arena with floodlighting allows training in darker months, and riders can head out on off-road hacking routes of up to eight miles from the property. On site there is a feed room, secure tack room, tea room, toilet and shower, and a washing machine for kit and rugs. Full and DIY livery packages are offered, alongside hacking access for liveries and lesson clients.

Accreditations held by the centre include the British Equestrian Dzhigitovka and Trick Riding Association, the International Equestrian Dzhigitovka Federation, the National Horseback Archery Society, the World Horseback Archery Federation and the International Tent Pegging Federation, with staff holding the IESF horse stunt test qualification. The office is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 16:00 and closed on bank holidays and weekends. The postcode for satnav users is HP2 6EY.