Running a livery yard, riding school or equestrian centre can appear straightforward from the outside. Visitors see tidy stables, well-maintained arenas and contented horses. What they rarely see is the constant balancing act behind the scenes.
Yard owners and managers juggle horse welfare, client expectations, staff management and the financial sustainability of their businesses every day. It is a demanding role that rarely stops, and one where the consequences of mistakes can be serious.
Recognising the pressures faced by yard owners is exactly why YardWise 2026 is returning this autumn, bringing together industry experts and professionals to provide practical guidance and support. Early Bird tickets for the event are now on sale, giving yard owners and managers the opportunity to secure their place at a reduced rate.
The Animalweb team is once again proud to be part of the organising committee, helping shape the programme for what promises to be another valuable event for the industry.
Following the success of the inaugural YardWise event last year, which brought together yard owners, industry professionals and leading experts for two days of discussion and learning, the 2026 event will expand the programme under the theme “Smart Care, Smarter Business.”
The Pressures Facing Modern Yard Owners
Yard owners face a wide range of responsibilities that extend far beyond caring for horses.
Welfare expectations have never been higher. Horses must be managed in environments that support respiratory health, physical wellbeing and mental welfare. Turnout, bedding, forage, stable management and routine care all play a role in maintaining healthy horses.
At the same time, the financial realities of running a yard are becoming increasingly challenging. Rising costs for feed, bedding, utilities, insurance and veterinary care mean that margins are often tight. Many yards rely on a combination of income streams such as livery, lessons, training services and events to remain viable.
People management adds another layer of complexity. Recruiting and retaining skilled staff can be difficult in such a physically demanding industry. Yard owners must also manage employment responsibilities, health and safety requirements, and day to day supervision of staff.
Client expectations have also evolved. Today’s horse owners are often well informed and welfare-focused, asking detailed questions about management practices, feeding and turnout. Clear communication and strong relationships are essential for maintaining trust and avoiding misunderstandings.
On top of this, yard owners must navigate legal obligations including employment law, insurance, environmental responsibilities and contractual arrangements.
Despite the importance of their role within the equestrian industry, many yard owners report feeling that there is limited structured guidance available to help them manage these challenges.
Why Yard Owners Matter
At grassroots level, yard owners play a vital and often overlooked role in the equestrian world.
They are frequently the first point of contact for new horse owners, offering guidance on everything from feeding and stable management to turnout, health care and welfare practices. Their experience and advice help shape responsible horse ownership and contribute directly to equine wellbeing.
In many cases, yard owners act as educators, mentors and problem solvers for their clients, providing support that goes far beyond simply offering stabling.
Recognising and supporting this role is essential for the long-term health of the industry.
YardWise 2026
YardWise aims to provide exactly that support.
The two-day event will bring together respected industry experts to deliver practical sessions focused on both welfare and business management.
Day one will focus on equine welfare and environmental management, with speakers including Dr David Marlin, Annabel Holme (Equine Ecology), Nic de Brauwere MRCVS (Redwings), Gail Eggington (Biosecurity) and Ali Dane (Suitable Equine Care).
Day two will shift towards business operations, client communication and running a sustainable yard business, with speakers including Sarah Dale (BHS), Andrew Stennet (Sustainability) and Cheryl Johns (Livery List).
Alongside the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to share experiences, discuss challenges and connect with other yard owners facing similar pressures.
The Animalweb team had a fantastic time at the inaugural event last year, which brought together a hugely engaged audience of yard owners and industry professionals for two days of open discussion and practical learning.
With even more speakers and sessions planned for 2026, interest is already building.
Event Details
YardWise 2026 – Smart Care, Smarter Business
14–15 September 2026
Warwick Trident College, Royal Leamington Spa
Early Bird tickets are now available – Register HERE!
For more information and to book your place, visit:
www.yardwise.co.uk
