Setting Up Your Stable: What You Actually Need

Whether you’re putting up your first stable or upgrading an existing yard, it’s easy to get carried away buying things you don’t actually need. Here’s what we’ve found works best at Crockleford Stud — practical, durable and worth every penny.

The Stable Itself

Size matters: 12ft x 12ft is standard for most horses, 12ft x 14ft for larger breeds or ponies needing extra space. Good ventilation is critical — high-level airflow plus a window or door that opens fully. Avoid tight, sealed boxes — stale air causes coughs and respiratory problems.

Bedding

Straw, shavings or hemp — all work well, each with pros and cons. What matters most is keeping it deep, dry and mucked out daily. A good quality bedding fork, wheelbarrow and muck sack make the job far quicker.

Essential Equipment

•⁠ ⁠Water bucket or automatic drinker — clean and refill daily

•⁠ ⁠Hay net or hay rack — positioned at head height

•⁠ ⁠Feed bucket — heavy-based so it doesn’t tip over

•⁠ ⁠Manger or holder — keeps feed clean and off the floor

•⁠ ⁠Broom, fork, shovel & barrow — good quality tools last years

Safety & Comfort

Round off sharp edges, secure all fittings, and keep the floor non-slip. A good, stable light with a pull-cord switch is essential for evening checks.
Setting up doesn’t have to cost a fortune — buy good quality basics that last, and build up gradually. Here’s our recommended list of stable equipment we use every day.