Welcome to Princess Unicorn & Friends!
We are a family horse riding school with a difference.
Welcome to princesstheunicornhq.com
Our Story
My name is Clare, and my dreams have always been huge! Growing up on the Naval estate in Eastney, Portsmouth, I became obsessed with horses from the moment I laid eyes on them. At 10, my sister found a nearby stable, and I was hooked. My dad insisted I wouldn’t have my own horse until I could pay for one, which I saw as a challenge. I took on odd jobs, saving up until I bought my first pony, a beautiful New Forest mare named Fern, at 14.
At 16, I worked at a racing stable and later as a personal groom for top showjumpers and dressage riders, gaining invaluable experiences across the country with my pony Fern and another horse, Pagan. However, as life complicated with three children, I had to say goodbye to them and shift to a job in healthcare, where I worked for the NHS in maternity.
In 2016, I lost my incredible mum to cancer—my biggest supporter and champion. Her passing made me realize how short life is, igniting a fierce determination to pursue my dreams. In my darkest moments, I remembered the excitement horses brought me as a child, which fueled my resolve to create a life I truly loved.
Starting from nothing, I faced the daunting challenge of gaining a horse riding school license, navigating numerous obstacles along the way. It has been a journey filled with heartache, heartbreak, and countless tears, but my vision has kept me going. This led to the creation of Princess the Unicorn and Friends, a venture born from my desire to rescue, rehabilitate, and retrain horses, creating a warm and welcoming environment where everyone can feel part of something special.
From the moment Princess entered my life, it felt like fate. She thrived in training, showing fearlessness alongside larger horses and bringing joy to countless children. Balancing my passion with my NHS job has been tough, especially with the disruption of COVID-19.
Despite the hurdles, I cherish the world I’ve created and the smiles I’ve brought to so many thanks to Princess and her friends. As my mum always said, “have courage and be kind!”
Thank you to my family, true friends, and supporters who have become like family. The dream is just beginning, and I have big ideas to make them a reality!
💜🦄💜
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