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Top 12 Horse Riding Experiences in Scotland
I’ll be honest—I’m far from being the best rider in the arena. But even so, horse riding is an absolute blast, especially when you have great instructors, friendly horses, and plenty of open space to explore.
My first attempt was far from graceful (picture lots of awkward bouncing), but with patience and practice, I managed to improve—well, at least more than I expected! Safety is always a top priority for me, so I make sure to prioritize helmets, sturdy boots, and thorough lessons.
So if you’re ready to saddle up and give it a go, I’ve done the legwork and rounded up the best horse riding experiences in Scotland you won’t want to miss!
Ian Stark Equestrian Centre
Media Credit: ianstarkeq
Address: Greenhill Farm House, Selkirk
Contact Information: +44 1750 20202
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9am – 8pm
- Saturday: 9am – 2pm
Cost:
- Adults (Ages 17 and above)
- 1-hour hack/group lesson – £40
- ½-hour group lesson – £30
- ½-hour private lesson – £45
- 2-hour ride – £80
- Children (4 to 16 years)
- 1-hour hac/group lesson – £30
- ½-hour group lesson – £20
- ½-hour private lesson – £35
- 2-hour ride -£80
Founded by the legendary equestrian Ian Stark, the Ian Stark Equestrian Centre (ISEC) is a premier destination for all things equestrian. From riding lessons to scenic hacking and trekking opportunities, it’s perfect whether you’re a beginner or an enthusiast!
Lessons are available for anyone aged four and up, with options to join group sessions or book private lessons for a more personalized experience.
And if you’re seeking adventure, ISEC’s hacking and trekking trails are perfect! You can explore their stunning 500-acre hill farm, complete with breathtaking views of the Scottish Borders countryside.
Pro Tip: Arrive at least ten minutes before your lesson to be fitted with necessary equipment like hats and body protectors.
Gleneagles Equestrian School
Media Credit: gleneaglesequestrian
Address: Allington Ln, Southampton
Contact Information:
- Phone: +44 23 8047 3370
- Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 8am – 7pm
- Wednesday to Thursday: 8am – 6:30pm
- Friday: 8am – 5pm
- Saturday to Sunday: 8am – 6pm
Cost:
- Beginner Lessons – 45 minutes – Shared/Private – £155 per person
- Show Jumping Lessons – 45 minutes – Shared/Private – £155 per person
- Dressage Lessons – 45 minutes – Shared/Private – £155 per person
- Lead Rein Lessons (For children aged 4-7 years old) – 45 minutes – £99 per person
- Own A Pony (For children aged 6 years old and above; Minimum of 4 children) – 120 minutes – £165 per child
- The Glen Stable Experience – 45 minutes – £55 per person
*Prices exclude 12.5% discretionary service charge.
Tucked away on the stunning Gleneagles Hotel Estate in Perthshire, the Gleneagles Equestrian School has been one of Scotland’s premier destinations for horse riding since 1988.
Spanning a picturesque 80-acre equestrian center, the school provides year-round opportunities. You can choose from beginner lessons, show jumping, and dressage sessions to develop or refine your skills—indoor and outdoor coaching are available, too!
Meanwhile, if you’re seeking unique experiences beyond traditional lessons, the school offers estate rides—guided treks through the stunning Gleneagles grounds.
And, if you have a budding young rider in your family, check out the pony rides. It’s a must-try if you want your child to get started on their equestrian journey!
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to dress appropriately—comfortable riding attire and sturdy footwear are key for a great session.
Scottish Equestrian Centre
Media Credit: scotsequi
Address: Race Course, Lanark
Contact Information:
- Phone: +44 1555 661853
- Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Thursday to Tuesday: 9am – 8pm
- Wednesday: 9am – 8:30pm
Cost:
- The Castle Trail Riding – from £2,595
- The William Wallace Trail – £950
- Adult Riding Holidays – start at £1,295 for a half-board package
- Children’s Riding Holidays – from £975
- Children’s Riding Holiday with English Language instruction – begins at £1,275
Founded in 1985, the Scottish Equestrian Centre is the UK’s largest British Horse Society (BHS) approved riding center. They offer lessons for all ages and skill levels, so it’s great whether you prefer private coaching or learning in a group with their friendly, BHS-qualified instructors.
A standout experience is the Scottish Castles Trail Ride, where you’ll trek through stunning Lanarkshire landscapes and historic Outlander territory.
And if you’re looking for a more immersive experience, their holiday camps are a fantastic way to learn the basics, build confidence, and make new friends.
Pro Tip: Try out their Ride and Relax experiences, combining horse riding lessons with their five-star hotel stays.
Equus Riding Centre
Media Credit: equusdining
Address: Wards Crossroads, Roseisle, Elgin
Contact Information:
- Phone: +44 7917 572154
- Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10am – 6pm
Cost: Pricing available upon booking
Nestled between Elgin and Forres in Moray, Equus Riding Centre is a welcoming, all-weather outdoor equestrian school for riders of all ages.
My favorite offering of theirs is their scenic hacking experiences. Here, you get to take breathtaking beach rides along golden sands and peaceful forest treks through the extensive trails of Roseisle Forest.
For younger riders, their Pony and Saddle Club provides a safe and engaging way for kids to learn the basics of horse care and riding, all while having fun and building confidence.
Pro Tip: After building up an appetite, make sure to visit Equus Dining, a cozy café and restaurant offering delicious brunch options daily with great views of the horses.
Crieff Hydro Riding Centre
Media Credit: crieffhydroresort
Address: Ferntower Road, Crieff
Contact Information: +44 7730 671 442
Operating Hours: Available upon booking
Cost:
- Horse Riding
- Group Lesson
- 30 minutes – From £35
- 60 minutes – From £50
- Children’s Pony Rides (ages 5 and under) – From £10
- Group Lesson
- Hacking – From £50 per person
- Lead-Reins Sessions – 30 minutes for children ages 4 to 10 – From £35
Set within 900 acres of stunning Perthshire landscape, Crieff Hydro Riding Centre is a must-visit for any equestrian enthusiast. With a wide variety of activities, from riding lessons to scenic hacks, there’s something for everyone.
To boot, their group lessons are perfect for beginners looking to master the basics, while private lessons provide tailored instruction for those wanting to refine their skills.
For those eager to hit the trails, their hacking experiences are skill-based, offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced options so you can ride at the pace that suits you best.
Pro Tip: Be sure to book in advance as popular activities are easily filled, especially during the holidays.
Seacliff Stables
Media Credit: seacliffstables
Address: North Berwick
Contact Information: +44 7768 627547
Operating Hours: Available upon booking
Cost:
- 30 Minute Session (Ideal for ages 4 to 9)
- 11 and under – £27
- 12 and over – £37
- 1 Hour Session
- 11 and under – £37
- 12 and over – £47
- 1 Hour and 15 Minutes Session
- 11 and under – £45
- 12 and over – £55
- Private Group (1-hour session for 3 or more riders) – £70 per rider
- Bespoke Private Packages
- Weekends and School Holidays – £100 per hour per rider
- Tuesday to Friday during School Term Time – £70 per hour per rider
Seacliff Stables is a family-run spot offering some of the best views of the East Lothian countryside, with amazing sights of Tantallon Castle, Bass Rock, and Seacliff Beach – perfect for a leisurely ride while soaking in the scenery.
They’ve got a selection of home-bred horses that are ideal for beginners, kids, and nervous riders, plus some top competition horses for the more experienced.
If you’re into carriage driving, they’ve got that too, offering a chilled, picturesque way to take in the surroundings from a whole new perspective.
Pro Tip: If you’re seeking a bespoke riding experience, Seacliff Stables can tailor longer sessions or private rides, including special occasions like engagements. Be sure to reach out in advance to confirm availability and make arrangements.
Highlands Unbridled
Media Credit: highlandsunbridled
Address: Murley Steading, Ballogie
Contact Information: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Daily: 10am – 6pm
Cost:
- Day Rides
- Carnferg & The Fungle – £160 per person (lunch not included)
- Carnferg, Fungle & Forest Of Birse – £160 per person (lunch not included)
- Riding Holidays
- 3 Day Centre Based Spring Short Breaks
- Rogues and Rebels – £1748
- Mini Cairngorm Explorer – £1748
- Spirit of the Glen – £1698
- Legend of Loch Ness Trail – £1945
- North Route Coast to Coast – £3160
- Three Coast Ride – £4489
- Awesome Assynt – £1846
- Ultimate Cairngorms Trail – £3376
- 3 Day Centre Based Summer Short Breaks
- Wild West Highlands – £3360
- Timeless Torridon Expedition – £1885
- The Outlander Ride – £3198
- The Outlander Ride + 3 Day Extension – £4098
- 3 Day Centre Based Spring Short Breaks
Nestled in the scenic Royal Dee-side area on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park, Highlands Unbridled is a family-run horse riding centre offering everything from pony trekking to long-distance riding holidays.
For seasoned riders, Highlands Unbridled provides unforgettable multi-day adventures, including coast-to-coast rides through diverse landscapes and all the way to the wild west Highlands.
For beginners and families, they offer shorter half-hour rides through the forest, as well as full-day excursions into the hills, perfect for enjoying the stunning scenery.
Pro Tip: For certain rides, Highlands Unbridled offers a convenient pick-up service from Aberdeen or Inverness. Just get in touch ahead of time to discuss the options and make arrangements.
Loch Ness Riding
Media Credit: Loch Ness Riding
Address: Drummond Farm, Dores, Inverness
Contact Information:
- Phone: +44 7973 815208
- Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours:
Cost:
- Private Lessons (45 minutes) – £55 per person
- Group Lessons (1 hour – 1.25 hours) – £55 per person
- Hacks
- 2 hours – £115 per person
- 3 hours – £150 per person
- Full Day – £210 per person
- Guided Rides (with your own horse)
- Small Groups (2-3 persons) – £25 per person
- Private – £45 per person
Situated on the southern shore of Loch Ness, this riding centre caters to experienced equestrians with a wide range of activities, including dressage, show jumping, cross-country, and stable management.
A standout feature is their endurance riding experiences, where riders cover long distances over diverse terrain. Options range from shorter hacks lasting a couple of hours to multi-day trail rides spanning 2 to 5 days for a truly immersive adventure.
The centre is home to a select group of well-schooled horses, including Andalusians, Irish Sport Horses, Arabs, and Thoroughbreds, ensuring a suitable match for various riding styles.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to take on their full-day hacks, make sure to pack a hearty lunch — you’ll definitely build up an appetite along the way.
Aberdeen Riding Club
Media Credit: aberdeen_riding
Address: Nether Anguston Farm, Peterculter
Contact Information: +44 122 473 3111
Operating Hours:
- Monday and Tuesday: 8am – 8pm
- Wednesday – 8am – 9pm
- Thursday: 8am – 8:30pm
- Saturday: 8am – 5:30pm
- Sunday: 8am – 7:30pm
Cost:
- Private Lessons
- Half Hour Private Lesson With Liam – £36
- Half Hour Private Lesson With Liam (Weekends or after 4pm) – £40
- Half Hour Private Lesson With Laura – £38
- Half Hour Private Lesson With Laura (Weekends or after 4pm) – £42
- Half Hour Private Lesson With Martin/Kirsty – £40
- Half Hour Private Lesson With Martin/Kirsty (Weekends or after 4pm) – £44
- Half Hour Private Lesson With Sally – £44
- Half Hour Private Lesson With Sally (Weekends or after 4pm) – £48
*£2 will be deducted per person for a semi private lesson *£7 (off-peak)/£9 (peak) will be deducted for use of own horse
- Group Lessons
- Half Hour Group Lesson – £30
- One Hour Group Lesson – £36
- One Hour Group Lesson (Own Horse) – £25
- Standing Order Payment (4 Lessons) – £132
- Pony Stars – £21
- Challenge Awards – £21
*Standing order payments are per calendar month and allow 48 weeks riding per year, allowing 4 weeks holiday, *If a standing order lesson is missed, it must be made up within one calendar month.
- Block Booking Cards
- 5 x Half Hour Group Lesson Card (Saving of £5.00) – £145
- 10 x Half Hour Group Lesson Card (Saving of £15.00) – £285
- 20 x Half Hour Group Lesson Card (Saving of £40.00) – £560
- 5 x Hour Group Lesson Card (Saving of £5.00) – £175
- 10 x Hour Group Lesson Card (Saving of £15.00) – £345
- 20 x Hour Group Lesson Card (Saving of £20.00) – £680
- Membership
- Trial Membership (One-off) – £5
- Introductory Membership (3 Months) – £15
- Full Single Membership (May – April) – £130
- Full Family Membership (May – April) – £240
- Full Walkies Membership (May – April) – £15
*Family membership can be up to two adults and three children and must be related.
- Other Lessons
- Half-Hour Walkies Session – £15
Renowned throughout North-East Scotland for its award-winning facilities and expert instructors, Aberdeen Riding Club is a non-profit organization dedicated to making horse riding accessible to everyone.
The club supports the community by subsidizing horse costs for two local Riding for the Disabled Association groups and offering free riding sessions to children through the “Befriend a Child” charity.
Its top-tier facilities include both indoor and outdoor arenas, enabling year-round training regardless of the weather. Riders can choose from lessons in stable management, lunge training, and more, while comprehensive livery services include full, DIY, and grass options.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes with a small heel (like boots) for better grip in the stirrups.
Drum Riding For The Disabled Centre
Media Credit: drum.rda
Address: 155 Drum Street, Drum Estate, Gilmerton
Contact Information:
- Phone: +44 131 664 5803
- Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 8:30am – 4pm
- Friday to Saturday: 8:30am – 1:30pm
Cost: From £15 to £30 per session (varies on length of lesson and level of support needed)
Since 1956, Drum RDA has been dedicated to providing therapeutic riding programs that build confidence, improve well-being, and teach horse riding to individuals of all abilities, starting as young as age 4.
Their mission is to ensure everyone can experience the joy of horseback riding through equine therapy. The heart of this inclusive organization lies in its passionate volunteers, skilled instructors, generous donors, and supportive community.
Serving over 200 disabled children and adults each week, the dedicated team at Drum RDA creates a supportive environment where riders feel confident, comfortable, and empowered.
Pro Tip: Be sure to watch for their special events and volunteer openings—it’s a wonderful chance to support a meaningful cause while enjoying even more time with the horses.
The Cabin Equestrian Centre
Media Credit: britshowjumping
Address: Ordyfauld, Keith Hall, Inverurie
Contact Information: +44 146 762 4378
Operating Hours: Available upon booking
Cost:
- Group Lessons – £25
- Private Lessons
- 30-minute session – £30
- 45-minute session – £43
- Pony Days:
- Half-day – £35
- Full-day – £60
- Stable Management Sessions:
- 1-hour session – £25
- 30-minute session – £12.50
With over 40 years of experience, this premier riding club in North East Scotland is renowned for its top-tier facilities and comprehensive training programs. Riders can enjoy year-round activities thanks to the centre’s indoor and outdoor arenas, jumping courses, and training areas.
Lessons and training sessions cover essential skills such as horseback riding fundamentals, dressage, showjumping, and groundwork, making it an ideal starting point for those interested in competitive riding.
In addition to regular lessons, the centre frequently hosts equestrian events, including competitions and expert-led training clinics designed to help riders refine their techniques and elevate their skills.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to attend a training clinic or competition, book your spot early—these events fill up fast! And don’t forget to bring a notebook to jot down valuable tips from expert coaches.
Edinburgh Polo Club
Media Credit: edinburghpoloclub
Address: Edinburgh, Currie
Contact Information: https://edinburghpolo.com/#contact
Operating Hours: Available upon booking
Cost: Available upon booking
If you’re looking to elevate your horse riding experience, the Edinburgh Polo Club is a great place to start, offering a variety of equestrian activities focused on the sport of polo.
For beginners, there’s no need to worry—there are plenty of options to get started, including introductory sessions, private and group lessons, polo days, weekend clinics, and instructional chukkas to help you ride like a pro.
With both indoor arenas and outdoor grass pitches, the club ensures year-round riding, no matter the weather. These versatile facilities are perfect for both polo training and general horseback riding.
Pro Tip: If you’d like to get to know more riders, the club also hosts social events like barbecues and gatherings to help members connect through the sport.
