Using a comprehensive online questionnaire, we gathered insights from 3,343 horse owners and riders across the nation.

The digital format allowed us to reach equestrians from diverse backgrounds and regions, ensuring a robust sample size that provides credible insights into the current state of horse ownership in Britain.

Our survey was designed to be both accessible and thorough, enabling participants to share detailed information about their equestrian lifestyle, financial commitments, and the personal impacts of rising costs. Each respondents was asked a series of carefully crafted questions covering key aspects of horse ownership and care, from essential expenses to lifestyle adjustments.

Our Horse Census reveals the stark reality of how the cost of living crisis is forcing equestrians to make significant personal sacrifices to maintain their horses’ well-being.

The findings paint a concerning picture, with horse owners increasingly having to choose between their own basic needs and their commitment to their equine companions.

We asked equestrians Have you had to make cutbacks in other areas of your life in order to keep your horse? 64% said yes. 

Despite mounting financial pressures, the UK’s love affair with equestrianism continues to thrive, with over 3.2 million Brits taking to the saddle last year. However, our Horse Census reveals a concerning trend: 8 in 10 British equestrians admit that owning and caring for horses is becoming increasingly challenging in today’s economic climate.

These findings demonstrate the critical importance of making equestrianism more affordable and accessible for the future, ensuring that our beloved sport remains viable for the next generation of riders and owners.

The Harry Hall Horse Census has uncovered concerning trends in equine insurance coverage across the UK. Our research reveals that more than a third of horse owners (36%) are choosing to forgo insurance altogether, exposing themselves to potentially significant financial risks.

“The results of the inaugural Harry Hall Horse Census reveal what has been felt across the community for some time and show the lengths equestrians are going to amid the cost-of-living crisis that is impacting everyone. Nearly a quarter of horse owners are reducing energy consumption in their homes to prioritise their horses’ care, while 88% have given up holidays altogether. Perhaps most concerning, a third of equestrians are cutting back on their own food to meet horse care expenses.

These statistics aren’t just numbers – they represent real challenges facing our community. The census has made it clear that there are areas across the equestrian sector that require immediate attention and improvement to help ensure that all horses and riders are supported throughout their journeys. At Harry Hall we aim to make horse ownership more affordable by providing products and services that lower that annual cost.

It’s vital that businesses serving equestrian communities in the UK are doing all they can to help alleviate these pressures – a passion that is at the very heart of our organisation. The Harry Hall Horse Census has demonstrated that it is now more important than ever for us to continue to support our customers by introducing innovative, new services and products, as we strive to make horse riding and ownership more affordable and accessible for everyone, so they don’t have to make sacrifices.”