“You have horses? You must be rich!”
How many of us in the equestrian world have heard this old chestnut? The reality, as most horse owners know, couldn’t be further from the truth. Between feed, farriers, vet bills, and stable costs, the ever-rising expenses of equine care leave little room for indulgence. And yet, quality equipment for both horse and rider remain essential. That’s exactly why we created Bayards of Sherborne—to offer affordable, high-quality equestrian products to our community, without compromising on style or service.
Allow us to introduce ourselves. I’m Alison, and along with my partner Mark, we run Bayards of Sherborne. Horses have been a lifelong passion for me; I’ve ridden and owned them for over 50 years (though let’s not get bogged down in numbers!). During that time, I’ve seen the equestrian world evolve dramatically. Advances in technology and the growth of equestrian disciplines have brought a dizzying array of products to the market—sometimes helpful, sometimes overwhelming.
Mark’s journey into the equestrian world has been quite different. A self-described “reluctant rider” initially, he discovered a love for horses later in life and has embraced the steep learning curve with enthusiasm. Together, we bring a mix of deep experience and fresh perspective to our business, united by our passion for horses and our love of Sherborne and its surrounding areas.
Bayards was born out of a desire to offer something we felt was missing: a local, reliable, and welcoming equestrian shop that prioritises its customers. Like many, we turned to online shopping for convenience. But what we gained in accessibility, we often lost in trustworthiness. The internet can be a minefield of dubious websites, tricky returns policies, and AI-powered customer service that falls flat. Not to mention, when we needed something urgently, delivery delays always seemed inevitable.
We knew our community deserved better. At Bayards of Sherborne, we’re bringing back the personal touch. Our shop is a space where horse lovers can not only browse and inspect products before buying but also share stories and feedback. Whether it’s a tale of your first hack, the antics of a mischievous pony, or a wish list for the products you’d like us to stock, we’re here to listen.
A Shop with a Community Spirit
Located in St George’s House on Greenhill, right on the A30 at the traffic lights in Sherborne, Bayards is named after St George’s legendary steed—a fitting symbol for our venture. Inside, you’ll find a clean, bright, and well-organised shop stocked with everything from wellies to whips, buckets to bridles, and rugs to riding wear. We carry trusted brands like Hy Equestrian, Woof Wear, Kincade, and Masta, ensuring every product meets the standards our customers expect.
But we know that equestrian life can be unpredictable, and if you don’t see what you need, we’ll do our best to source it for you. Our dedicated preloved section is another way we support the community, offering second-hand rugs, riding wear, saddlery, and field equipment—all cleaned and in excellent condition. It’s perfect for finding a bargain or giving new life to quality items.
What Sets Us Apart
At Bayards, we aim to go beyond being just another shop. Our ethos is built on three pillars: quality, affordability, and community. We welcome muddy boots, big ideas, and honest feedback. Have a product suggestion? Let us know. Need advice on the best gear for your needs? We’re here to help. And if you just fancy a natter about your latest equine escapades, our door is always open.
We also have a small gift section for the discerning horse lover—perfect for birthdays, Christmas, or just because. Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand our range and services, always guided by what our customers need most.
Why Choose Local?
Shopping locally at Bayards means more than convenience; it’s an investment in our shared community. By supporting local businesses, you help create a vibrant network of services that benefits us all. And with Bayards, you’re guaranteed the personal service and genuine passion that only comes from people who truly understand and care about the equestrian world.
So, whether you’re in search of a new bridle, a bargain on preloved kit, or just a welcoming space to share a love of horses, we can’t wait to welcome you to Bayards of Sherborne. Together, let’s make equestrian life a little easier—and a lot more enjoyable.
Get in touch with Alison and Mark – 07508 550737
mark.alison@bayardsofsherborne.co.uk
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