I think it is quite a small budget I spent £8000 on my first horse an 8y.o. schoolmaster because i wanted a horse that was going to be reliable and build up my confidence which has made me the strong rider I am today.  He has done me for 4 years and now jumping 1.30m affilliated.

Up here in scotland you will pay in excess of £3000 for a decent, safe allrounder. Anything below that price bracket is going to have issues. If you are a novice rider looking for a safe horse to enjoy hacking and schooling stick to cold blooded or crossed horses which you can pick up cheaper. A good cob can be £2500. However if you want something a bit flashier then expect to pay more.

I was lucky and picked my first horse up for £3000 incl all accessories. However she is a mare, a warmblood x and has scars and will never win gran prix dressage!

Make sure you know what you want and stick by it, dealers will always push you to buy out of your price range and ability. Try, view and get to know every horse you see. Trust your gut instinct. Good luck!

the new issue of your horse mag has a good buying a horse article. Cost of that horse depends on the type of horse you want.

For £2500 expect a horse thats well behaved in and out the stable, probably suitable for a novice to ride. Will probably have a problem though such as heart murmour/splints etc. 'Perfect conformation' horses tend to be over £5000.

I bought my ex racehorse cheaply, but she needs to be reschooled and has the odd behavioural issue.

Buy a horse thats suited to you, your time and your ability- not your budget.