Part Loan vs Full Loan: Which Is Right for You?
A UK rider's guide to choosing between a part loan (share) and a full loan — time, cost, responsibility and lifestyle fit.
The short version
A full loan is closest to owning: the horse lives with you, you cover every bill, and you make every decision (within the loan agreement). A part loan — often called a share — keeps the horse at its existing yard, and you split time and costs with the owner. Both are valid. The right choice depends on your time, budget and how much responsibility you actually want.
Time commitment
A full loan needs someone at the yard twice a day, every day, forever. Even on full livery you're the one arranging farrier, dentist, vet, physio, and answering the yard's phone at 6am when your horse has cast itself. A part loan is typically 2–4 days a week with fixed riding days.
If your working hours are unpredictable or you travel, a share almost always wins.
Cost
Full loan on DIY livery in 2026 runs £250–£500 per month for livery alone, plus feed, bedding, farrier every 6–8 weeks (£70–£140), vaccinations, dentist, worming, insurance and inevitable vet bills. Budget £4,000–£8,000 a year, more if you compete.
A part loan on the same horse might cost £150–£300 per month all-in, and you don't own the risk of a big vet bill.
Decision-making
Full loan: you choose the farrier, the feed, the rug, the discipline, the shows. Part loan: the owner still calls those shots. If you have strong opinions about how a horse should be managed, be honest about which model suits you.
When a share is the better answer
- You work full time
- You've never had sole responsibility for a horse
- You want to test a horse before committing to a full loan
- You want the riding without the admin
When a full loan is the better answer
- You have consistent daily time
- You want autonomy over management
- You're preparing to eventually buy
- The owner is moving away or scaling back
The middle route
Some owners offer a 5-day share or assisted loan where you take the majority of the horse's days and costs but the owner keeps a foot in the yard. It's less common but often the best deal for both sides.