The books, websites, communities and training opportunities that every carriage driving enthusiast should know about.
The carriage driving world is fortunate in having a wealth of excellent resources available to drivers at every level — from beginners looking for their first book on the subject to experienced competitors seeking to deepen their technical understanding. The resources listed here represent the best of what is available in print, online and in person across the United Kingdom.
Curated for quality and relevance — these are the resources we recommend most enthusiastically to UK drivers.
The definitive English-language guide to carriage driving technique — a must-read for every driver who is serious about understanding the why behind the what. Pape writes with clarity and authority on rein technique, horse training, vehicle selection and the principles that underpin excellent driving. A permanent fixture on the bookshelf of every serious driver.
The national governing body and the single most useful online resource for UK drivers. Find qualified trainers using the searchable directory, download the current rulebook, browse the events calendar, access the club finder and join online. If you only bookmark one driving website, make it this one. The BDS also publishes the bi-monthly BDS Gazette for members.
The FEI website is the authoritative source for international driving competition — rules, world rankings, competition schedules and results from FEI events around the world. Even if you have no immediate international ambitions, reading the FEI rules alongside the BDS rulebook deepens your understanding of the sport's structure and standards at the highest level.
The classic beginner's text — clear, practical and written by one of Britain's most respected driving authorities. Walrond covers the fundamentals with an approachable warmth that makes the book an ideal companion for your first year in the sport. Available second-hand through equestrian book dealers and online marketplaces. A staple recommendation from every experienced coach.
The British Driving Society's official YouTube channel features competition footage, training videos, event highlights and coaching content from BDS-qualified coaches. Watching high-quality driving — whether top-level marathon action or a beautifully executed dressage test — is one of the most effective ways to develop your eye for the sport. Free to access and regularly updated during the driving season.
An active and welcoming community of UK drivers using the group to share advice, buy and sell equipment, organise informal drives and discuss every aspect of the sport. The breadth of experience in the group is impressive — from complete beginners to long-standing competitors — and questions from newcomers are invariably answered quickly and generously. An excellent first point of contact for advice on buying equipment or finding local clubs.
A monthly equestrian magazine with consistent and high-quality carriage driving content — event reports from major shows, breed profiles relevant to driving, training articles, equipment reviews and interviews with leading drivers. Available on subscription or at larger newsagents. A good way to stay connected with the driving world throughout the year, particularly during the quieter winter months.
The BDS organises training days and clinics run by qualified coaches throughout the UK, typically from late winter through to autumn. These events cover everything from beginner introductions to specialist marathon skills and pairs preparation. The BDS website calendar lists upcoming events. Attending a BDS training day is one of the best value learning investments in the sport — particularly for those without regular access to a coach.
The BEF oversees elite sport development across all equestrian disciplines in Great Britain, including carriage driving. The BEF manages the selection process for the British driving team competing at international FEI events. For drivers with aspirations to represent Great Britain, the BEF website is essential reading. The BEF also provides funding support for talented young drivers through its development pathways.
The National Pony Society and individual breed societies — Welsh Pony and Cob Society, Fell Pony Society, Cleveland Bay Horse Society, Hackney Horse Society — are valuable resources for breed-specific information, breed show schedules, stallion registers and welfare guidance. If you drive a specific native or heritage breed, joining its breed society connects you to a specialist community and additional showing opportunities.
Whether you prefer to learn from books, online communities or in-person training, there is something here for you.