Equestrian Groundworks

From arena construction to stable yard concreting, we deliver specialist groundworks for equestrian facilities that are built to last and drain properly.

Professional Equestrian Groundworks Across Exeter and Devon

Well-constructed equestrian groundworks keep horses safe, facilities functional and surfaces performing year-round, regardless of weather.

We deliver specialist groundworks for equestrian facilities, from riding arenas and paddocks through to stable yards and access routes. Getting equestrian groundworks right requires more than just moving earth and laying hardcore. It demands proper drainage design, correct surface specification and precision levelling throughout. 

Every project we build is constructed with drainage as the priority, ensuring surfaces perform in all conditions and last for years without costly remedial works. Operating across Exeter and Devon, we work with landowners and equestrian businesses who need groundworks they can rely on.

jmj groundworks digger contructing equestrian pen
jmj digger moving soil for equestrian pen in exeter devon

Why Choose JMJ Groundworks For Equestrian Projects?

We understand the unique demands of equestrian facilities and build groundworks that perform in the conditions horses and riders actually face.

Drainage-First Approach
Drainage is the single most important factor in any equestrian groundworks project, and we prioritise it from the outset, designing and installing systems that move water away quickly and prevent waterlogging, pooling and surface breakdown.

Specialist Surface Knowledge
We understand the different surface requirements across arenas, paddocks and stable yards, from silica sand and rubber blends through to fibre-reinforced concrete, ensuring every surface is specified and installed correctly for its purpose.

Laser-Levelled Precision
Correct levels and falls are critical across equestrian sites – arenas need to be true and even, stable yards need to shed water, and paddocks need consistent ground. We use GPS and laser levelling throughout to achieve this.

Experience with Equestrian Sites
We understand how equestrian facilities are used day-to-day, which means we build groundworks that account for heavy foot traffic, machinery access, horse movement and year-round weather conditions.

Our equestrian groundworks services

We deliver a full range of equestrian groundworks to suit facilities of all sizes, from single arenas and paddocks to fully developed equestrian yards.

Arenas

Excavation, Grading and Drainage
Full site excavation and grading to achieve correct levels and stable formation, with herringbone drainage systems, perforated pipework and geotextile membrane ensuring water drains freely and the arena surface stays functional

Sub-Base Construction
Compacted aggregate base layers with correct depth and specification, separated by geotextile membranes to maintain performance and prevent contamination over time.

Surface Installation
Installation of arena surfaces including silica sand, rubber and sand blends, and wax-fibre compounds, laid to correct depth and specification for safe, consistent riding conditions.

Paddocks and Turnout Areas

Site Preparation and Drainage
Topsoil stripping, excavation and installation of land drainage systems designed to manage water across the whole paddock, including perimeter drainage to divert surrounding surface water.

Sub-Base and Surfacing
Compacted aggregate sub-base with correct falls, topped with crushed limestone dust or sand compounds to provide a firm, free-draining surface suitable for year-round turnout.

Fencing and Soakway Systems
Concrete post foundations and gravel board bases for fencing systems, plus design and construction of soakaway systems or discharge points to manage drainage water.

Stable Yards and Concrete Works

Stable Yard Aprons and Bases
Reinforced concrete aprons with correct falls and anti-slip finish, plus concrete bases and engineering brick levelling courses for stable blocks, all constructed with proper perimeter drainage.

Wash-Down and Muck Heap Bays
Concrete wash-down areas and muck heap bays constructed with reinforced concrete, correct falls and drainage to keep yards clean and manageable.

Horse Walker Bases
Laser-levelled concrete or compacted aggregate bases for horse walkers, constructed with correct falls to a central drainage point and finished to suit the walker specification.

Access and Infrastructure

Access Tracks and Hardstandings
Construction of access routes, parking areas and hardstandings for horse lorries and machinery, built with correct sub-base, surfacing and drainage to handle regular traffic without deterioration.

Water and Utility Trenching
Excavation and reinstatement of trenches for water supply, lighting and other services across equestrian sites, carried out alongside or ahead of surface works where possible.

Concrete Paths and Ramps
Construction of pathways, access ramps and connecting routes to provide safe, durable access throughout the site.

Let’s Discuss Your Equestrian Project

Whether you’re building a new arena, developing an existing equestrian yard or improving paddock drainage and surfacing, our team can deliver groundworks that perform in all conditions.