Equestrian

The use of land for equestrian purposes often requires planning permission as this is considered a separate use class to agricultural.

In addition to use, the associated arenas, stables, and other buildings usually require express grants of planning permission, given the very limited permitted development rights available in this area.

Securing planning permission can be complex, particularly if your land is listed or lies within a protected area such as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a National Park. Residential accommodation for workers, fencing, and the need to divert or modify public rights of way are also important considerations, especially when it comes to keeping horses safe. Our Planning team understands the unique challenges of equestrian development. We work closely with clients to shape practical strategies that support both your ambitions and your horses’ wellbeing.

Buying or selling equestrian property often involves complex tax considerations.

Whether it’s residential, commercial, or mixed-use, our team provides clear guidance on Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and Value Added Tax (VAT), helping you understand what applies and how to structure your transaction efficiently.

From identifying whether VAT is chargeable, to advising on SDLT rates and the potential for structuring a deal as a transfer of a going concern, we’re here to make the process smooth, compliant, and tailored to your goals.

Equestrianism tends to be a family affair, whether pursued as a competitive sport, a business, or a passion project.

Passing equestrian assets and businesses smoothly from one generation to the next is an important goal for many of our clients. We support this with sensitive, efficient planning that keeps disruption to a minimum.

Our team works closely with families and business owners to help structure ownership in a way that supports long-term succession, guiding you through early planning strategies to ensure that these objectives are achieved.

With the introduction of a £1 million cap on the value of assets eligible for 100% business property relief and agricultural property relief and increase in the rates of capital gains tax (as announced in the October 2024 Budget) and the evolving regulatory landscape, early and strategic planning has never been more important.

For individuals who are:

• not domiciled in the UK
• establishing an equestrian business in the UK
• transporting valuable equestrian assets, including horses, to the UK, or
• acquiring equestrian property in the UK

These circumstances bring specific income tax, capital gains tax and inheritance tax issues.

Our team has extensive experience in advising such individuals on the intricacies of the UK’s tax legislation to ensure that their UK equestrian plans do not result in unforeseen tax consequences.

Our Family team supports individuals with deep ties in the equestrian community – from those running equestrian businesses to families for whom horses are much loved members of the clan.

Pre- and post- nuptial agreements are useful tools we regularly use to protect equestrian assets, including horses, land, and business interests, in the event of separation or divorce.

For owners of high-value horses who may be involved in areas such as competition, breeding or investment structures, we work closely with experts to obtain valuation, and liquidity reports as necessary for the divorce process. For horses and ponies which are family pets, increasingly the family courts are considering the welfare and emotional bonds between individuals and their horses when disputes arise over ownership.

Our Children work can also intersect with the equestrian world, for example to advocate for children’s access to horses or equestrian routines which are central to their lifestyle and wellbeing, or in respect of ensuring that young children who are regularly around horses are sufficiently protected.

We regularly support those employing staff in the equestrian industry, including preparing robust employment contracts and procedures, and helping them manage their teams with confidence.

We also guide employers on compliance with key regulations, including those relating to wages, holidays and health and safety, ensuring a happy workforce and reducing the risk of workplace claims.

Drawing on experience with professional horse trainers, polo players and stud managers, among others, we help individuals negotiate their terms of engagement and departure, and support those in sensitive workplace situations.

Providing tailored immigration advice for businesses, individuals and families, we support the equestrian community at every level.

For equestrian businesses looking to employ overseas talent, we offer strategic guidance on sponsor licensing, alongside our expertise in assisting riders, trainers and support staff with visa applications under the Global Talent, Skilled Worker and Temporary Worker (Sportsperson) routes.

Whether you’re looking for family visas, settlement, or British citizenship, we support families with long-term relocation planning, ensuring your immigration, personal and business goals are considered together.