For those not too sure about taking to the hills on two wheels, four legs might be more reassuring. Scottish Borders history is strongly linked with horses; Border Reivers, Common Ridings, point to point races. In fact there are more horses per head of population in the Borders than anywhere else in Scotland. There are also facilities for those who wish to bring their own horse; being a very rural area there are several B&B and Guest Houses that can provide stabling for your own horse.
...the rolling hills of the Cheviots and Lammermuirs - The Borders is renowned for having some of the best horse riding country in Britain. The 57 mile Buccleuch Country Ride is the only one of its kind in Scotland and the rolling hills of the Cheviots and Lammermuirs provide wide open spaces, ideal for competent riders. For the less intrepid the Borders is well catered for by BHS approved riding centres and riding schools for that fun hours‘ hacking.
Equestrian events are well represented in the region; with racing - point-to-point at Friars Haugh as well as national hunt at Kelso Races; Horse trials - the big 3-day event at Thirlestane, as well as many unaffiliated one-day events; Show-jumping/showing - at the Border Union Show, as well as the many unaffiliated/Pony Club events held. The Border Union has qualifiers that could lead to a place at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show (the Crufts for horses!). Endurance riding - the Borders is home to some of the best endurance riders, as the undulating terrain and easy access to the countryside is a great training ground. Long-distance riding is growing in popularity in the UK in general. The Scottish Endurance Riding Club's 2004 Championship was held at Springwood Park in Kelso.
Borders Festival of the Horse 2008: A unique 11-day festival of equestrian events and activities throughout the Borders for riders and spectators.If it‘s equestrian action you are looking for, this is the festival for you! There are around 40 events to choose from.
For more information on riding in the Scottish Borders please use the links on the left hand menu.
To search for Horseriding activities in the Scottish Borders click here