I've never made a forum post before, so just bear with me, but I've been struggling/thinking about this for a while.

Owning a horse is my biggest dream, but I can't. The main reasons are that my family are non-equestrians and don't own property, and the career path I want to take in the future means that I won't have the space or time or stability for a horse and I know better than to "invest" in a horse that I cannot promise a lifelong commitment with. There aren't any places near me that offer leasing or livery, and I am lucky enough to ride at a riding school once a week. Recently a friend of mine bought her first horse (she has been riding for much less time compared to me and I was riding in the "level" above her), and I've just been riding for such a long time that it seems the next logical step but I know it's not possible. I'm trying to sorta 'get over it' even though I know I am very lucky to be able to ride horses at all. Any advice?

I unfortunately don't have any advice, but I can totally relate to how you are feeling. I personally can't afford a horse because they are just to expensive. It's hard.

I guess my one advice would be to not give up hope. Something might change in your life. Maybe your time will free up. Maybe your finances will change. If it's somethign you REALLY want then keep riding as much as you can.

you could lease a horse/s

A friend at work said she regreted getting a horse of her own as she rode less than before.

The limited free time for riding was now spent taking the horse to the farriers or waiting for the vet. Going to fetch bulky food stuffs. Repairing the small stable and fencing round the paddock. Pulling out nasty plants and reparing rabbit and mole holes. Etc.

So there are many advantages to riding as you do now.

I too have always hankered after a horse, but could not afford it or the time (as I don't live on a farm), sigh.

And you never know, you might win a lottery!!