Following the outstanding impact of last year’s event, YardWise returns on 15 and 16 September 2026 at Warwick Trident College, Royal Leamington Spa, with an expanded two day format and a powerful new theme: Smart Care, Smarter Business.
Organised by Animalweb alongside The Equestrian Index and LiveryList, YardWise has quickly established itself as the must-attend professional development and networking event dedicated entirely to yard owners, managers and equestrian business professionals.
And yes, we are delighted to confirm that Dr David Marlin will once again return as a keynote speaker, bringing evidence-based insight and practical science to the heart of the programme.
Helen Stock, Director of Animalweb and one of the event organisers, said:
“Following the success and enjoyment in taking part last year, we couldn’t wait to sit down with the other organisers, Cheryl Johns and Amanda Watson, to plan this even bigger event for 2026. Yard professionals are at the centre of our industry, and they deserve high-quality, independent, practical support.”
Why YardWise Matters
The success of YardWise 2025 made one thing clear: there is a growing need for a focused, independent event that supports the people responsible for running Britain’s equestrian yards.
Yard professionals are operating in a challenging environment shaped by:
- Rising costs
- Increasing compliance expectations
- Staffing pressures
- Heightened welfare scrutiny
- Evolving client demands
Yet, without a formal licensing framework governing livery yards in the UK, many operators are left navigating complex welfare, employment and compliance challenges without consistent guidance.
YardWise exists to provide that structure, bringing together science, welfare and sound business practice in one professional, supportive setting.
What to Expect in 2026
Day One: Welfare and Environment
Day One focuses on the foundations of every reputable yard, equine welfare and environmental management.
Dr David Marlin will deliver evidence based insight into welfare led practice, joined by:
- Annabel Holmes of Equine Ecology
- Nic de Brauwere MRCVS of Redwings Horse Sanctuary
Sessions will address the practical realities of delivering high standards of horse care while balancing environmental responsibilities and long term yard viability.
Day Two: Business, Leadership and Resilience
Day Two shifts focus to the commercial and operational realities of running a modern equestrian business.
Speakers including:
- Cheryl Johns of LiveryList
- British Horse Society representatives including Sarah Dale
will explore:
- Client management
- Professional boundaries
- Financial sustainability
- Team leadership
- Business resilience
The aim is simple: to equip yard professionals with the confidence and clarity to run compliant, profitable and respected operations.
The BHS has awarded 6 CPD points for attending BHS Accredited Professional Coaches.
Building on a Proven Success
YardWise 2025 received excellent feedback from attendees, speakers and industry partners. Helen Whitelegg of Redwings described it as:
“YardWise brings together people who really deserve to have more information and support, and to share ideas with us and each other. We had some really valuable conversations, and it’s a concept that definitely benefits everyone who attends.”
With early demand already strong, the 2026 event has been expanded to a two day format, allowing delegates to attend either day individually or immerse themselves in the full programme.
Event Details
Dates: Tuesday 15 – Wednesday 16 September 2026
Venue: Warwick Trident College, Royal Leamington Spa
Tickets: From £85 + VAT per person, including networking breakfast, lunch and refreshments
Early bird tickets will be released on 2 March 2026, with limited availability.
For full details and bookings, visit:
www.yardwise.co.uk
As organisers, we are incredibly proud to be part of an event that raises standards, strengthens businesses and supports the people who underpin the entire equestrian sector.
If you own or manage a yard, are developing a new operation, or provide professional services to this sector, YardWise 2026 is designed for you.
