Creating a safe space to roam

A horse turnout pen is a designated outdoor space where horses can safely exercise, graze, or simply enjoy time outdoors. It provides a controlled environment that allows horses to move freely without the risk of injury or escape, making it an essential part of equine management for maintaining your horse’s health and well-being.

The size of your turnout pen depends on the number of horses using it, the available space, and how you intend to use the pen. For individual turnout, a smaller pen might suffice, while larger pens are necessary for group turnout or more extensive exercise. As a general guideline, individual pens are often around 40×40 feet, but we can customise the size based on your specific needs.

The safety of your horses is paramount, so choosing the right fencing is crucial. Options include wooden rails, vinyl, and no-climb mesh fencing, all of which provide secure enclosures. We recommend a minimum height of 5 feet to prevent horses from jumping over the fence. Our team will help you select the most suitable fencing material and design to ensure durability and safety.

The surface of your turnout pen should be safe, comfortable, and easy to maintain. Common options include sand, gravel, wood chips, or grass, depending on the intended use and local climate. We often recommend a mixture of sand and gravel for areas prone to mud, as it offers good drainage and a stable footing. Our experts will guide you in choosing the best surface for your horses’ comfort and your maintenance preferences.

Good drainage is essential to prevent muddy conditions that can lead to hoof problems and unsafe footing. To ensure proper drainage, we often install a base layer of compacted gravel or crushed stone beneath the surface material. We can also create a slight slope in the pen to facilitate water runoff. Our team will design a drainage solution that keeps your horse turnout pen dry and usable year-round.

In many areas, planning permission is not required for constructing a basic turnout pen, especially if it is a small, temporary structure. However, if your project involves significant land alterations, permanent structures, or is located in a regulated area, you may need to obtain planning permission. We can help you determine whether permission is required and assist with the application process if necessary.

Yes, with the right design and materials, your turnout pen can be used year-round. To ensure usability in all seasons, we recommend selecting a surface that performs well in various weather conditions and incorporating proper drainage. In colder climates, adding windbreaks or shelter can make the pen more comfortable for your horses during winter months. We’ll work with you to design a pen that meets your needs throughout the year.

The cost of building a horse turnout pen can vary based on factors like size, fencing materials, surface choice, and any additional features such as shelters or gates. We provide detailed, transparent quotes during the planning stage, ensuring you understand all costs involved. Our goal is to deliver a high-quality turnout pen that fits your budget.

Maintenance is important to keep your turnout pen safe and functional. This includes regular inspections of the fencing for damage, checking and replenishing the surface material, and ensuring the drainage system is working properly. Depending on the surface, occasional grading or dragging may be necessary to maintain even footing. We offer maintenance services and advice to help you keep your pen in top condition.

You can enhance your horse turnout pen with several optional features, including run-in shelters, automatic waterers, feeding stations, and even shade structures. These additions can improve your horses’ comfort and make managing the pen easier. During the planning phase, we’ll discuss these options with you to create a turnout pen that meets all your requirements.