Our History
Gaddesden Place RDA Centre was formed in 1974 by Trina Hall and grew rapidly to become one of the first full time RDA centres in the region.
We are situated close to Hemel Hempstead, within the beautiful Gaddesden Estate, which has been owned and managed for generations of the Halsey family.
We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Halsey family, we have over the years been able to continue to develop the centre and to provide new facilities and activities.
1983
Our indoor school was opened by HRH The Princess Royal, RDA Patron
1985
Opening of the viewing area, named after show jumper Caroline Bradley
2008
The Chiltern and District RDA Group was merged with the Gaddesden Place RDA Centre
2017
A new modern surface of waxed sand and fibre was laid in the indoor school
2021
Champion our mechanical horse joined the team
2022
We opened our Sir Peter O’Sullevan Equine Learning Centre
Today we operate five days a week, with a team of fully qualified coaches, over 80 volunteers and three paid members of staff. This enables us to provide a range of equine related activities including riding, equine therapy, hippotherapy, horse and pony care, and lessons on Champion, our riding simulator.
Gaddesden Place has continued to thrive as a full time RDA centre overseen by a board of trustees and a Centre Manager. Despite our continued growth, our survival is still very dependent on our dedicated volunteers and the support of the local community to help with fundraising.
Find out how to support us or get involved with our activities.
