Horse riding and pony trekking in Scotland

1. Crieff Hydro Riding Centre, Perthshire 

Whether you’re planning a day visit or an overnight getaway, Crieff Hydro Hotel in Perthshire is happy for you to be their guest. Enjoy lots of horse related fun with beginner, intermediate and advanced hacks available to book. Don’t worry if it’s your first time in the saddle, beginner hacks go at a gentler pace giving you the benefits of soaking up more of Perthshire’s natural beauty. An expert rider will lead the way showing you all the best bits around the estate with hacks suitable for anyone aged 10 and above.  

Looking to hone your equestrian skills even further? The whole family can book a group lesson where they’ll learn the basics on how to stop, start, steer and trot. Helmets and equipment are provided for all hacks and horse riding lessons, just remember to wear long trousers and closed-toe shoes on the day. 

Go on a horse riding hack at Crieff Hydro 

3. Wilder Ways, Argyll 

Escape to the west coast of Scotland for a horse riding holiday. Meet the herd before hopping on your trusty noble steed where you’ll be treated to views of soaring mountains, quiet hills, wild meadows and golden beaches. All horse riding adventures range from three days to week-long all-inclusive holiday packages and are mostly spent in the Mull of Kintyre or Knoydart in the West Highlands. There’s lots of horsey activities to sink your teeth into if you’re strapped for time. Kids can experience the joy of looking after a pony followed by a 1-hour riding lesson. Embrace your inner warrior with an archery experience and enjoy the thrill of shooting arrows from a running horse. For experienced riders, enjoy a day out at the seaside and feel the wind in your hair on a beach gallop.  

If you become more of a regular, learn more about the horses on a working holiday. The Wilder Working Week gives you the opportunity to spend more time with the horses and on the best ways to take care of them. 

Plan your riding adventure with Wilder Ways 

5. Blackstone Farm Clydesdales & Dig-A-Day, Ayrshire 

Muck out on the farm and spend a day with some beautiful Clydesdale horses. Open from March to October, pamper your new friends as you wash, groom, walk and feed them - they won’t be short of love and attention. Each experience is tailor-made to suit your needs, so whether you wish to enjoy a leisurely trek around the estate or want to go galloping along the local sandy beach, the choice is yours. No previous riding experience is required, making it a great day out for the whole family. There’s lots of other farm animals to meet too, from cheeky donkeys and fluffy highland cows to geese, hens and ducks. They’ll be sure to entertain you with their antics and big personalities.  

Can you dig it? Yes, you can! Get behind the wheel and control a mini or 22-ton big yellow JCB tractor, you’ll be put through your paces with lots of mini challenges to test your coordination skills.  

Visit Blackstone Farm Clydesdales  

9. Uist Community Riding School, Isle of Benbecula 

Our horse and pony trekking adventures can be enjoyed on our islands, too. Uist Community Riding School in the Outer Hebrides have been delighting novice and experienced riders with their offerings. Feel the wind in your hair on a beach ride and if the weather takes a turn for the worse, seek shelter at the indoor school with high quality facilities available to hone your skills further.  

For the little ones, they’ll get the chance to take care of their own pony. They’ll be able to feed and groom them while also learning a few interesting facts. Pony rides are available for up to three hours with a supervised adult on hand. Kids below the age of four who are too young to take the reins can spend time with cute Shetland ponies while plaiting and brushing their magnificent mane. 

Go horse riding at Uist Community Riding School 

Follow the Outdoor Access Code  

Before you go, make sure to read the Outdoor Access Code on how to behave responsibly while out on horseback.