Meet the Owners

A Lifetime in Equestrian Sport

As Owner of Lessans Livery Yard, Philippa’s passion for horses began at the age of four. Her early years were spent riding at Lagan Valley Equestrian, Jennifer Howes’ riding school and Millbridge, before she acquired her first pony, Robin. A member of the Iveagh Pony Club and later the North Down Pony Club, Philippa competed successfully in showjumping and eventing with ponies including Grey Prince and Houdini.

Her involvement in teaching began unexpectedly at just 13, when local children asked her to teach them to ride. What started with a few lessons on older ponies quickly grew through word of mouth, eventually leading to the establishment of Lessans Riding Stables.

At 16, Philippa spent a year undertaking her BHS Instructor’s training with the renowned Iris Kellett. On her return, she was delighted to find that the riding school had continued to flourish, with her pupils remaining loyal throughout her absence.

Over more than 40 years, Philippa has introduced hundreds of children and adults to the sport, many of whom have gone on to successful careers within the equestrian industry. Many have even returned to Lessans years later to ride with their own children and grandchildren.

Alongside running the riding school, Philippa maintained a successful competitive career, achieving numerous wins and highlights. However, her greatest passion has always been the production and development of young competition horses. Her experience includes producing several horses that went on to Olympic level, as well as horses exported internationally to leading riders including Jörg Bodenmüller, Bruce Davidson and Michael Whitaker.

Today, Philippa continues to share her extensive knowledge and experience by teaching riders on their own horses and ponies across all levels and disciplines, managing the livery yard and producing young horses.

Her commitment remains the same: to maintain Lessans as one of Northern Ireland’s leading equestrian training and competition centres, built on experience, expertise and a genuine lifelong passion for horses.

Country-based and always busy, I rarely find myself doing the same thing two days in a row. My work is varied, from buying and selling horses and running the livery yard to keeping reindeer for Christmas events, alongside a little contract work whenever time allows.

Outside of work, I enjoy good food, great coffee and travelling, particularly exploring somewhere new whenever I get the opportunity. I also enjoy CrossFit when work allows, although the social side is every bit as important as the fitness!

To book an individual or group private lesson or Livery enquiry please contact Philippa on:
Mobile: 07808923894.

For NI Reindeer, Livery, Transport & Contracting enquiries please contact
Nial on:
Mobile : 07889039310.