For the ultimate horse riding experience, head for Scotland: swathes of open countryside, breathtaking landscapes, heather-covered hills, sandy beaches forest trails and a natural environment where equestrianism can be experienced to the full. Riding conditions don’t get much better!

So if you’re toying with the idea of a riding holiday for the first time or, possibly, pushing the boundaries of your usual comfortable routine as an experienced rider, why not explore what the Scottish world of horses has to offer? Scotland is arguably one of the best countries in the world for horse riding across all its disciplines ... as those who return on horse riding holidays year after year will testify.

Alternatively, horse lovers who prefer a less hands-on approach can always indulge in horse riding in Scotland as a spectator sport. From high profile horse racing events, horse trials, racing and carriage driving events to local agricultural shows with competitive horse riding sections, Scotland’s the place to be for all equine enthusiasts.

Horse Riding Opportunities in Scotland
Scotland’s spectacular scenery and superb network of waymarked multi-use paths and rural trails seem tailor-made for horse riders of all levels of ability. The south eastern Borders area, in particular, is known as ‘Scotland’s horse country’, although centres of excellence exist throughout the country.

Pony Trekking
Pony trekking is a long-established equestrian activity in Scotland. Miles and miles of un-crowded countryside and accessible coastline, loch-sides and moor land, as well as numerous equestrian centres across the country, catering for all levels of rider ability, make Scotland ideal pony trekking territory.

What better way to enjoy the Scottish countryside than pony trekking on a trusty native Scottish Highland pony, in the company of like-minded people?

And the joy of it is that pony trekking is the perfect equine pursuit for both novice and experienced riders, alike; all ages can join in. Most Scottish pony trekking centres welcome children under the age 10, with short, easy lead reins treks; equally, experienced riders appreciate the freedom of longer hacks, at their own pace.

Trail Riding in Scotland
If you’re an advanced rider in search of a more challenging horse riding experience on terrain where you can give full rein to your mount, trail riding is probably your best bet.

Scotland is recognised for its quality trail riding provision, with countless trails and clearly marked routes, well kept sports horses, as well as organised and highly qualified, friendly ride leaders.

Above all, the varied and often-demanding Scottish landscapes provide experienced riders with an opportunity to test their mettle to the full. Gallop for miles across beaches and moors; jump ditches and fences, all in the knowledge that these trails have been tried and tested with your safety in mind.

Popular Scottish Horse Riding Routes & Trails
- Buccleuch Country Ride: a 91-kilometre (57-mile) 4-day route through the open and varied countryside of the Scottish Borders, across rolling hillsides, along private riverside tracks and peaceful bridleways. For more information, contact the Scottish Borders Tourist Board – see Resources below.
- Tyne Esk Trails: made up of 4 separate circular routes of between 16 and 24 kilometres (10 and 15 miles) each, over 96 kilometres (60 miles) in total, the Tyne Esk Trails will take you through the beautiful Midlothian countryside, with some interesting historic and sites thrown in for good measure! For detailed routes and maps, visit www.tyneesktrails.co.uk.
- Cairngorms National Park: several marked routes offer a mind-blowing horse riding experience; scale the heights of the Scottish Highlands, amidst some of the most dramatic and rugged scenery in the UK. For more information go to:
www.destinationscotland.com/activities/horse_riding.asp or follow the links via www.s-e-a.org.uk for more information on individual equine disciplines.

Did you know that …
- The discipline of pony trekking has its origins in Scotland, when the late Lt. Commander Jock Kerr Hunter joined the Scottish Council of Physical Recreation, over fifty years ago,
- His aim was to encourage the youth of the day to explore Scotland’s great outdoors on horseback.

Planning to go Horse Riding in Scotland?
Find out about local horse riding facilities from your nearest Scottish Tourist Office or go through a riding centre that has been approved by the BHS (British Horse Society or the TRSS (Trekking and Riding Society of Scotland), the governing body for recreational riding in Scotland.

Top Tip
If you’re planning a riding holiday in Scotland with suitable accommodation for you and your horse, en route, then the recently established ‘Horses Welcome’ quality assured accommodation scheme may be just what you’re looking for; visit www.horseswelcome.org for further information.

Resources
- British Horse Society Scotland, Woodburn Farm, Crieff, Perthshire, PH7 3RD; Tel. +44 (0)1764 656334; for further information on choosing routes and trails, contact the BHS on Tel. +44 (0)1294 270891; website: www.bhsscotland.org.uk
- Trekking and Riding Society of Scotland (TRRS), Bruaich-Na-H'Abhainne, Maragowan, Killin, Perthshire, FK21 8TN; tel. +44 (0)1567 820909; website: www.ridinginscotland.com