MacNair's Country Acres

I’ve been riding at MacNair’s Country Acres since December 2021 after taking a 10-year break, and it has been the perfect place to rekindle my love for the sport. As a former eventer, transitioning into hunter riding was a new challenge, but the instructors — especially Sara Hamilton, who teaches my Friday night lessons — have been incredibly patient, supportive, and knowledgeable throughout the process. The environment at MacNair’s is welcoming for riders of all levels and abilities, and as an adult rider, I’ve never felt out of place. I’ve made wonderful friends in my Friday night classes, and the supportive community has made every step of my riding journey even more enjoyable. Beyond my own experience, my daughter has also loved participating in their summer camps, which speaks volumes about the quality and care MacNair’s puts into all aspects of their programs. Now that I board my horse on pasture board, I can say firsthand that the facilities are top-notch and thoughtfully managed. While the cost is a little higher than some other barns, it’s absolutely worth it for the quality of instruction, the horses, the facilities, and the wonderful community. MacNair’s has brought the joy back to riding for me, and I’m so grateful to be part of such a special place.

Incredible staff and trainers. Horses are extremely well cared for (thank you Fern!) and training (+showing) available for all levels of riders. As an adult rider, would highly recommend if considering a return to riding. Sara is an excellent trainer as Ive picked back up the sport. Sarah G brings great leadership in training to the lease/board program. Additionally, we have our 7-year old in the beginner lesson program. Samantha and Saige have been wonderful at building her confidence and going at the pace she needs.

MacNair’s is a joyful, beautiful facility. The school horses are very well cared for, and my mare has been very happy boarding here. All the photos in this post were taken at MacNair’s to show the variety of what the farm offers. Love that there are many instructors with breadth and depth of experience in a variety of disciplines. Great place to board and to ride.

Overall, the lessons are a little more in cost than average but the main trainer for the Legacy Barn (beginner and intermediate riders) is amazing! Mattie does an amazing job and I have seen so much progression while I've been under her care. I do really love how much Mattie emphazises caring for your own horse by grooming and tacking yourself.

McNair’s Stables in Raleigh is a great place. The workers are skilled, meticulous, and it’s clear they really care about the horses. The vibes are always good, and it’s a pleasure to stop by and see how well everything is handled. Highly recommend!

Training with Laura Pendleton is like getting equestrian wisdom straight, no chaser. She's to the point, always brings good energy, and somehow manages to make even the most technical stuff actually make sense. She knows how to PUMP YOUR TIRES on the days where you and the horse struggle, and you end every lesson with a HIGH FIVE—literally or in spirit. Derby and I both learn something new every session, and neither of us leaves confused or cranky (a miracle in itself). If you're looking for a trainer who knows her stuff and makes the ride fun, Laura’s your person.

My daughter has been riding at MacNair’s Country Acres for 2 ½ years and we couldn’t be more thrilled with experience. We started at the Legacy Barn (that’s where the beginners go) and worked with Ms. Mattie and Ms. Samantha. Both were so patient and always went above and beyond to ensure my child felt safe and confident. In addition, these trainers did a fantastic job in preparing my daughter for the next step in her riding journey. She is now training at the Upper Barn (where more advanced riders go) and working with Ms. Sarah G. and Ms. Sara H. Their expertise, patience and encouragement has continued to build her confidence as well as her skill. She loves it and I can’t believe how much she has grown as a rider. The farm is beautiful, the horses are well cared for, and the environment is warm and welcoming. We are so grateful to be part of this incredible riding community and look forward to many more years of learning and growth.