Lynne's Riding Center NYC — Local services in New York

Let me preface this review by saying it's a long one, I know...but the negative reviews have to be displaced!

Lynne's Riding School is a breath of fresh air in the Type A hustle that is Queens. I've always adored horses from afar but never had the opportunity (financially or otherwise) to ride. Go figure that after growing up in CT, I would start riding in Forest Hills of all places.

I started riding about 4 months ago - we're talking wobbly scaredy-cat "what am i doing here" beginner - and from the moment I walked in, felt right at home in the smell of the barn and the welcoming nature of the employees. Fast forward to today, and I've finally achieved my personal goal - "making it to the park!" The best part about the school is the adjacency to Forest Park, one of the most beautiful and untouched areas in NYC. There is a dedicated bridle path there that few know about, allowing equestrians a gorgeous ride through forestry and quiet. Again, in QUEENS!?

At Lynne's they truly love their horses, and besides teaching the basics of riding, the instructors really help riders appreciate each horse's personality and how that lends itself to the ride. Personally I never realized how sassy they can be! However, equally as important as respecting the horses, is the emphasis on safety.

Safety was one of my key concerns in starting to ride, especially as an adult. I have to say, I never once felt scared atop the horse due to the staff's direction, and frankly, the horses' absolutely obvious respect and comfort with the staff. The horses rarely spook when around the staff since they truly feel safe. It's quite amazing to see.

While everyone is absolutely lovely here, there are some people I feel are very special: -Lynne: the woman behind it all, I've never seen firsthand someone who is such an expert in her craft. She's direct and thorough in her teaching style (I've been lucky enough to work with her one on one quite a bit), with a huge emphasis on the basics for safety. I like how conservative the school is with safety - it's so important. I've always felt like I'm in great hands with her, and I know her horses feel the same way. -Diana: I adore her. She was one of my first instructors when I started taking lessons. She taught me a lot about what I know about horse behavior and how they think, which has made me a better rider. She also got me comfortable enough on a horse to be taken off lead line quickly.

All in all, I'm addicted to this place - it is my new version of yoga, and I couldn't recommend it...

I do not have much comparison, however, I was shocked and confused to read the negative reviews about Lynne's Riding School. My 8 year old daughter has recently become obsessed with horses, and we found Lynne's through word of mouth. When I first called to schedule the lessons, Lynne spent a great deal of time talking on the phone with me, and answering all of my questions. I did not find her rude at all. From the minute we walked in for her first lesson, she felt comfortable and I felt as though she was safe. As other reviewers mentioned, there is a huge emphasis on safety - and that is important. I also thought that the instructor focused a lot on posture and form which is so important. Of course my daughter wanted to just get on and ride, but I like that they are taking time to teach her the true skill and control behind riding. While everyone at the barn is wonderful and friendly; Lynne, Denise, Rosemary, Eddie, Cowboy Eddie (who my daughter thinks is "dreamy"), she has made a special connection with her instructor Michelle. She is very patient and answers all of my daughter's million questions. I am a teacher and immediately noticed that EVERYONE is positive in their feedback to students while riding as well as after. My usually shy daughter has gained confidence in all areas of her life after just a few lessons. We usually hang out a bit after, and chat with some of the staff, or watch the horses leaving to go to the park, and I have always felt comfortable doing so. In regards to the stables, cleanliness and drugging of the horses, I cannot speak on that. Yes, it smells like a barn, because it is. I highly doubt that anyone there is drugging, or would allow the horses to be drugged - they are all obviously invested in the care of the horses as well as their jobs working with horses. Lynne is a professional, and her love for horses and teaching is 100% genuine and sincere; that has trickled down to the entire staff. If it is not clear, I highly recommend Lynne's...

Unfortunately, I have to give this business a one-star review due to the poor customer service. I initially sent an email inquiring about one of the programs listed on their website, thinking it would be easier and give them time to respond. It’s now been over a week, and I still haven’t received any reply.

After waiting four days, I decided to call. The woman who answered had no idea what program I was talking about, even though it’s clearly listed on their website. I read her the full description, and she still had no information. She told me someone named Amber would call me back that same day.

The next day, I called again since I never heard from Amber. The same woman answered but didn’t remember our conversation and asked me to explain everything again. After I did, she said Amber wasn’t working that day but would call me tomorrow. Well, today is “tomorrow,” it’s now 6 PM, and still no call, no email nothing.

Their follow-up is nonexistent. They might offer great lessons, but their customer service is seriously lacking. No one follows through, no one replies to emails, and no one seems to know what’s going on. It honestly feels like a dead zone when you try to reach out.

This review isn’t about the quality of their lessons it’s strictly about the lack of communication and professionalism when it comes to customer support. If you’re considering reaching out or booking something, be aware that getting information or help might be a frustrating experience.

UPDATE:I’m assuming the owner saw my review and responded saying they’d love to speak with me, but it’s been almost two weeks and I still haven’t heard back. They have my email address, and I’ve called twice both times I was told someone would call me back. They also have my name and both my phone numbers on file. The only response I got was to my review, but no one has personally reached out. If you’re thinking of booking with this company, just know they don’t follow up or communicate unless you leave a...