Equestrian enthusiasts aren’t just drawn to the sport or the graceful horses—they’re equally captivated by the charm of equestrian properties. These homes are more than just vast estates with endless open spaces—they’re carefully crafted retreats where every detail is thoughtfully considered. From the design of the grounds to the quality of the soil, purchasing a property with equestrian facilities is far from just acquiring a large plot of land.

And here’s where the excitement builds: right now, a wave of these stunning equestrian properties is making its way to the market, offering horse lovers a golden chance to claim their dream home. The latest gem that’s caught everyone’s attention? The equestrian centre, built for the 2012 Olympics, is located in Greenwich Park in London. But here’s the twist—this property is now up for sale, despite the protests from the local community.

Greenwich Equestrian Centre is on the verge of being sold off after a decision by the local council, leaving a stir in its wake. The centre, nestled in Shooters Hill, had shut its doors earlier this year, despite a heartfelt petition that gathered over 900 signatures in an attempt to save it. Built in 2013 with the goal of carrying on the legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games’ equestrian events, this £1.6 million project was a collaborative effort between Hadlow College, the council, and the British Equestrian Federation.

Following the council’s cabinet meeting on November 26, it was confirmed that the sale of the property would proceed under the guidance of Pippa Hack, the director of Regeneration, Enterprise, and Skills. The site spans 6.29 acres and houses a listed building along with two other structures for equestrian training. Despite the grandeur, the council argues that the site is currently vacant and comes with steep operating costs, making it financially unviable for ongoing use.

While it was briefly considered for conversion into a special educational needs facility, the existing buildings were deemed too small to meet the requirements. Other potential options, such as transferring the property to a community group, were dismissed due to concerns over the need for continued financial support. The council’s report emphasized that selling the property would allow them to maximize returns, which could be reinvested into services for the community.

This decision is part of a broader effort to bridge a looming £27 million budget gap for the coming year, which also includes the sale of other properties, like the Grade II listed Plumstead power station—previously slated for conversion into a film production studio. But this isn’t the first property to make its way to the market despite facing strong opposition.

Equestrian property makes it to the market!

You heard that right! Another equestrian gem is hitting the market despite the voices of protest. This time, the story takes us to the historic Sandy Point Farm, a sprawling estate with deep ties to the Vanderbilt family’s equestrian legacy. Reginald Vanderbilt, a passionate horse breeder, built this 6.15-acre masterpiece in Rhode Island, channeling his family’s love for the sport into every corner. Now, the property is set for auction, with bidding opening at $1 million, though it carries an asking price of $3.5 million.

Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions is offering this rare opportunity, but it’s not just a chance to own land; it’s a piece of history, a true equestrian haven. The estate boasts a 15,000-square-foot indoor arena, 24 stables, and luxurious living quarters—all ideal for those who live and breathe horses. But here’s where it gets interesting. Despite the property’s undeniable allure, controversy has brewed. As the estate is poised for a potential transformation, local equestrians are banding together to save the estate from an uncertain fate.

The Sandy Point Heritage Foundation has emerged, rallying to preserve the land’s historical and equestrian significance. The locals fear that the auction could lead to a future that erases the site’s storied past, replacing it with something less meaningful. Their vision? To turn this iconic space into a community center where the equestrian spirit lives on, offering opportunities for learning and engagement for future generations. Ingrid Adolphs, a key player behind the foundation, expressed deep concerns to What’sUpNewp, sharing their fear that the property’s marketing and current condition could signal a future of demolition rather than preservation.

The foundation is raising $1.5 million to secure a down payment, hoping to prevent the sale from taking the property in the wrong direction. If they can’t meet that goal, their backup plan is to collaborate with the eventual buyer, carefully restoring the estate over the next few years while keeping its equestrian heritage alive. Despite the tension, Sandy Point’s legacy is far from fading. Whether the property finds new life through renovation or remains a cherished equestrian retreat, one thing is clear: the fight to preserve its history is far from over.