I joined Jess at Oakapple farm in May 2024. I had taken a break from riding for several years due to being poorly and I was desperate to get back in the saddle. However I didn’t feel confident and was feeling like I just needed a little bit of support to get back in to the swing of things with Rocky my Connemara. Jess was recommended very highly by my trainer due to her extensive knowledge and sympathetic approach to horsemanship. Well back in May 2024 I thought I’d only be staying a few months (I’d even lined up another yard), however I’ve never quite been able to bring myself to leave! Oakapple Farm is beautiful. It’s like a little hidden away horsey haven and my own secret little bit of heaven (not so much now)! It’s the most tranquil and peaceful place ever and the horses feel it too. They’re quite often all flat out asleep in the afternoon! They’re all so chilled and happy. Rocky is a much happier horse than he was a year ago and his personality is shining through now. He’s also so much stronger, fit and well. He looks like a different horse! It also helps that Jess is the horse whisperer and has X-ray eyes I’m sure of it. The horses could not be better cared for or loved. Every horse is special to Jess, whether it’s been in for five minutes or five years, it makes no difference. She loves them all and always does right by them. The other wonderful thing is the hacking. Oh my goodness. In the summer especially it’s absolutely STUNNING. No road work needed, barn owls flying over your head as you hack around the crops, Canada geese swimming in the pond with their babies, herons, red kites and buzzards, deer and hares… it’s just such a lovely place to be! Maybe not the place to go if you like lively, exciting, busy yards with clinics and parties! But if you want a lovely yard that feels like home, you’ll adore it here! I never want to go home and I’m sure I drive Jess mad, but that what you get for having an awesome, cozy yard! Would give Oakapple Farm and Jess full marks every time. Literally no room for improvement. 🥰