The Queen visited Ebony Horse Club in Brixton to celebrate three decades of the beloved youth charity and community riding centre this afternoon.
As the organisation’s President, she was welcomed at the Millbrook Road stables by Sid Holdsworth, the club’s Chief Operating Officer, who accompanied her throughout the engagement.
A particular highlight of the visit saw the Queen introduced to two horses recently gifted by the Royal Mews.
Maggie, formerly used for carriage driving, and Taylor, a Fell pony, have both found new homes at the south London stables, where they now serve the club’s young riders.
During her tour, the Queen explored the Arch – a recently renovated communal area designed for club members.
She heard from volunteers who lent their expertise to the refurbishment project, as well as young people who played a role in shaping the space’s design.
Two physiotherapists who give their time freely to support the charity’s work were presented to Her Majesty.
Her Majesty the Queen visited Ebony Horse Club in Brixton to celebrate three decades of the beloved youth charity and community riding centre this afternoon
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PA
The visit additionally included an encounter with a local headteacher and pupils whose school sends children to attend sessions at the Brixton stables, underscoring the club’s deep roots within its community.
Young riders then took centre stage with a display showcasing their equestrian abilities, including horse-handling and leading techniques.
At the conclusion of the demonstration, the Queen personally awarded prizes to the participants.
Among the most inspiring encounters of the day, Her Majesty met two teenagers who have secured coveted places at the British Racing School.
The visit additionally included an encounter with a local headteacher and pupils whose school sends children to attend sessions at the Brixton stables, underscoring the club’s deep roots within its community
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PA
She observed them as they groomed and prepared horses for riding – a fitting testament to the pathways the charity opens for its members.
The Queen’s connection to aspiring jockeys from the club is well established; in February, she met 19-year-old Hezekiah at Plumpton Racecourse following his impressive second-place finish on debut.
Her association with Ebony Horse Club stretches back to 2009, when she assumed the presidency.
Two years later, then serving as the Duchess of Cornwall, she officially opened the club’s Wyck Gardens centre. She has since welcomed the charity’s supporters to Clarence House for a reception.
Young riders then took centre stage with a display showcasing their equestrian abilities, including horse-handling and leading techniques
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PA
In May, members of the club performed a demonstration at the Badminton Horse Trials, which chose Ebony Horse Club as its designated charity for 2026.
Established in 1996, the organisation now maintains nine horses and caters to more than 200 riders weekly.
It works with disadvantaged children and young people aged eight to 18, fostering confidence, empathy and problem-solving through horsemanship, volunteering and its Ride programme.