Looking to Horse Around in Portsmouth? New Manager Opens 'Gate' to Riding, Parties

Looking to "horse around" this winter school vacation break? A new manager might have the "horseplay" you're looking for. 

Anne Benson, who is leasing the equine facility at Stonegate Farm on Middle Road, is now offering private riding lessons, space for birthday parties and more. 

"It (Stonegate) is under new management," Benson said. "I've opened it up to birthday parties and riding lessons."

The facility is now being called the Anne Benson Stables, a full-service equine facility located at 805 Middle Road. 

"I want the existing horse community to know I'm here and offering boarding and lessons," she said. 

Benson, who has worked with horses for the past 25 years, served as an employee at Stonegate from 2004 to 2007. The Westport resident decided to return to Stonegate earlier this year. 

There are currently 11 horses on site, including training and lesson horses. Staff is available to care for the horses around the clock, 24 hours a day, seven days per week. 

Riding lessons are available Monday through Saturday. Private lessons are $45. Group lessons are $30. 

Full board is also available on site for $700 per month, which includes feeding, grooming, turnout and cleaning the stall. 

Birthday parties for children, ages 5 and older, are also available for $200, which includes games, horse rides and paper products. Cake is not included. 

Benson is also offering a winter day camp for parents looking to find something to do with their children this week. On Thursday and Friday, Dec. 29 and 30, camp is being offered from noon to 4 p.m. 

All instructors on site are licensed in the state of Massachusetts. The state of Rhode Island does not require licenses, according to Benson. 

Stonegate Farm, built in 1898, spans 5.9 acres off Middle Road. The farm houses a full-service barn with 38 stalls, a 130×60 indoor training area, a 180×100 outdoor training ring and two other rings.

For more information about the Anne Benson Stables, including riding and lesson information, visit the Web site here or call (781) 635-6574.