Scottish Borders Ride | Horse Riding Holidays in Scotland | Globetrotting

The Scottish Borders Ride, Scotland

6 NightsStrong Intermediate to AdvancedFrom £3,500 GBP?Tour costs £3,500 GBP which is approximately $6,945 AUD

{CUE} Bagpipe fanfare. Hey Outlander tragics: listen UP! Get ready to be part of history as you join the Scots on their legendary Common Ridings! You won’t find this ride anywhere else in the WORLD.

On this itinerary, you’ll have the unique privilege of joining the Common Ridings – the oldest horse riding festival in the world. Astride a nifty Irish Sport Horse, you’ll ride shoulder-to-shoulder with Scottish lads and lassies, tailored in tweed, bursting with good cheer, happy to share a time-honoured tradition.

Let’s just segue into some Scottish history here: the Common Ridings are an annual event celebrated in Scottish Border towns from May through to September. The tradition of Common Riding dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries, during the continual border wars with both England and other clans, when local men risked their lives to protect their town and people. To this day, the Ridings continue in commemoration of local legend, history and tradition. And YOU get to join in – WHOOP!

When you’re not on a Common Riding, your days will see you trit-trotting across grassy glens, moorlands dotted in sheep and unspoiled coastlines. The dramatic scenery will pull you back in time to a bygone world of clan clashes and romantic tales of damsels in distress.

You’ll be guests at Cringletie House Hotel, which is hands-down amazing, bespoke yet homely. Throughout the week, you’ll be hosted by general manager, Bill Haegeland, who will charm you with his Scottish knowledge and hospitality. And let’s not forget the out-of-saddle delights like a wee dram (whisky) beside a crackling fire after a successful Common Riding; the tingle on the back of your neck when ‘Scotland the Brave’ skirls on the pipes at your welcome dinner; and trying your hand at the Highland Games.

It’s a brilliant balance of riding paired with time to explore the Borders’ highlights. *This is why this ride is PERFECT for non-riding partners.

Once you’ve completed this holiday, you’ll qualify as an honorary Scot, having stepped out on a Common Riding, tossed a shot-put, slugged a single-malt whisky and appreciated some fine pipe music. Scottish ancestry or not, Outlander fan or not, you need to make a beeline for this ride.

**If you are considering a UK or a European sojourn, have you seen some of the other UK rides we now offer? You could extend your trip to 10 days or a fortnight and sample a second or even a third ride to deepen or enhance the flavour of your trip to a full ‘Best of British Isles’ menu. We have designed the UK summer season to help you do exactly this, with one or two days between ‘complementary’ departures.

Fast Facts

  • Horse Breed:A mixture of Irish Draughts, Irish Cobs, Irish Sport Horses and Connemaras. *Please note, you will ride a variety of horses throughout your holiday, with different horses being used for the Common Ridings.
  • Pace:The pace is variable, depending on the nature of the terrain, but riders will enjoy long stretches of trotting, fast-paced canters and galloping on most Common Riding days. *Please note, the Common Riding pace is set by the Cornet (lead rider) and cannot be guaranteed.
  • Type of tack:English all-purpose saddles and bridles.
  • Time in Saddle:Variable depending on the individual Common Ridings. Be prepared to ride between 2 to 6 hours daily. Refer to the suggested itinerary for a more accurate breakdown of hours in the saddle.
  • Ride Length:7 days, 6 nights, with 6 riding days.
  • Seasons:May through to September, when the Common Ridings through the Scottish Border towns occur.
  • Group size:A maximum of 10 guests per departure.
  • Riding Ability:Suitable for strong intermediate to advanced riders only. This ride is NOT for the faint-hearted - nervous riders would be out of their depth on this ride, not because of the horses, but more due to the pace of the ride. On some of the Common Ridings, you will be riding alongside 300 horses and riders. With such a huge group, a range of unpredictable scenarios can occur, so you need to be alert, calm and quick-thinking. All riders need to be confident trotting and cantering over open and varied terrain, including downhill.  Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out.
  • Weight Limit:A maximum of 95kg / 209lbs. It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If your weight is not accurate, we cannot guarantee that your hosts will have a horse for you to ride.
  • Accommodation:Twin share accommodation at Cringletie House Hotel, just outside the town of Peebles in the Scottish Borders. With its very distinct architecture, from romantic turrets to feature fireplaces, Cringletie’s guest rooms ooze comfort and character while being modern and elegant. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms. Bill, the general manager, and his team will go above and beyond to cater for your every need.
  • Inclusions:

    The price includes all riding, twin share accommodation, meals (from first day dinner through to breakfast on the last day) and Common Riding fees.

  • Exclusions:

    The price does not include international flights, travel insurance (compulsory), all transfers, alcohol and dinner on one night of the itinerary (a high tea is included during the afternoon on that particular day).

 

DEPARTURE DATES & RATES

NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% interest-free payment plan!
Departing FinishingAvailabilityTotal
May 8, 2025May 14, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
May 15, 2025May 21, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £2,200 GBP ?Tour costs £2,200 GBP which is approximately $4,366 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guestWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
May 29, 2025June 4, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £2,200 GBP ?Tour costs £2,200 GBP which is approximately $4,366 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guestWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
June 15, 2025June 21, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £2,200 GBP ?Tour costs £2,200 GBP which is approximately $4,366 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guestWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
June 22, 2025June 28, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £2,200 GBP ?Tour costs £2,200 GBP which is approximately $4,366 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guestWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
July 4, 2025July 10, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £2,200 GBP ?Tour costs £2,200 GBP which is approximately $4,366 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guestWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
July 10, 2025July 16, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £2,200 GBP ?Tour costs £2,200 GBP which is approximately $4,366 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guestWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
July 17, 2025July 23, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £2,200 GBP ?Tour costs £2,200 GBP which is approximately $4,366 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guestWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
July 23, 2025July 29, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £2,200 GBP ?Tour costs £2,200 GBP which is approximately $4,366 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guestWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
July 31, 2025August 6, 2025SOLD OUT!
From: £3,600 GBP ?Tour costs £3,600 GBP which is approximately $7,144 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same genderWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.
From: £4,590 GBP ?Tour costs £4,590 GBP which is approximately $9,108 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomWaitlist Me!You'll be notified if a spot becomes available on any of the listed departure dates.

PLEASE NOTE: Only advanced riders can take part in the May departure dates due to the pace and distance of the Common Rides.

**You will be required to pay the single supplement rate should we not have another guest willing to twin share with you.**

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price includes all riding, twin share accommodation, meals (from first day dinner through to breakfast on the last day) and Common Ride fees.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price does not include international flights, travel insurance (compulsory), all transfers, alcohol and dinner on one night of the itinerary (a high tea is included during the afternoon on that particular day).

Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. Depending on the ride you choose to book and your country of residence, there will be a 1.2% to 2.9% surcharge.

Click HERE to read more about our fees and charges.
Click HERE to read our recommendations on which cards are best to use to avoid international transaction fees.
WHY IS THE PRICE QUOTED IN GBP?
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.

Itinerary

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Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.

The set dates and starting times of the Common Riding days vary, depending on the location of the event. Rest assured, you’ll enjoy two Common Ridings throughout your itinerary.

The Common Ridings are community events. They are not organised or controlled by Globetrotting, or our Scottish ride partners. While there will be a guide present on each Common Riding, they will not have authority over the event’s management, timings, pace, route or duration.

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  • Day 1

    Today is the day you’ve been waiting for, Globetrotters. You’re in Scotland – tick! You’ve landed in the glistening Border country with its vibrantly green hillsides, heather-covered moors and welcoming villages that uphold ancient traditions. And you’re about to embark on a 6 day riding adventure through landscapes alive with the region’s turbulent history. I’ve got tingles running up and down my spine just thinking about it! Does life get better than this? I think not!

    You’ll need to arrive at your bespoke accommodation – Cringletie House, which looks more like a castle than a hotel – at 12 – 12:30pm. You’ll be shown to your rooms by your host Bill and his welcoming and friendly staff, who will be there throughout your stay to offer a helping hand should you require any assistance.

    You’ll have time to settle in and get changed for riding before meeting your guide Susy and driving approximately 15 minutes down the road to the equestrian centre, where you’ll be introduced to Susy’s superb team of horses. Remember, you’ll be riding different horses throughout the week, which is a wonderful experience in itself, so take some time to meet the horses at the yard, as you’ll end up riding a few of them during your stay.

    After a quick safety briefing, you’ll climb on board your horse (a word of warning: the horses are all rather tall, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance or a mounting block) and head off down the road into the rolling, wooded hills above the village of Cardrona for a short afternoon ride (about 1.5hrs). There will be plenty of opportunities for bursts of speed so that you become accustomed to the powerful horse you’ve been partnered with. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how these horses will go for a fast canter, then simply be happy to wander along on a long rein straight after without any fuss.

    After arriving back at the stable yard, you’ll head back to Cringletie, where you’ll have time to freshen up before a welcome dinner with some flamboyant Scottish fanfare thrown in for good measure. Loosen your belts, globetrotters, as the food you’ll be served throughout the week will definitely be worth the extra calories!

  • Day 2

    After a breakfast worthy of royalty (seriously, you do NOT want to miss the lavish spread served each morning at Cringletie), you’ll drive across to Susy’s other property in Manor Valley (approx. 15min drive) where some new horses will be ready and waiting for your day’s adventure. You’ll explore fells, roam across moors and enjoy 360-degree views. Get ready to fall in love with the magical, picturesque Border country!

    After some exhilarating, wind-in-your-hair canters, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch (provided by our friends at Cringletie) before riding on for the afternoon. Dinner tonight will be served back at Cringletie.

  • Day 3

    HIP, HIP HOORAY! Get ready to shout that all day long – it’s Common Riding time! Immersed in history, dressed in your tweed jacket and tie, you’ll ride shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of Scottish horsemen and women, led by the appointed lads and lasses from the local village, in a spectacular re-enactment of a time when clans rode the borders to protect their common lands from thieves and greedy landlords. It’s going to be fast-paced and exhilarating as you gallop across fields, crossing streams and rivers and performing the task of ‘checking the stones.’ Soak up the atmosphere, globetrotters – there is truly nothing else like it in the world!

    *Please note, each local town’s Common Riding differs with their start/finish times, route, pace and hours in the saddle. Rest assured, you will well and truly get your riding fix no matter which Common Ridings occur during your departure.

  • Day 4

    After yesterday’s exciting extravaganza, you’ll be able to enjoy a lie in and a late breakfast (around 9am), before jumping in your car and heading to the beach (about a 90 minute drive from Cringletie). That’s right, globetrotters, today you’ll get to explore part of the Scottish coastline from the back of your horse! Let’s hope the Scottish sun is shining, because John Muir Country Park is an unspoilt stretch of coastline where farmland kisses the sea, perfect for beach canters and wading in the shallows.

    After your ride, you might wish to slip up into Dunbar and have a drink at Winterfield golf club perched atop the hillside, with beautiful views of the beach and surrounding national park. Then you’ll need to zoom back to Cringletie, where you’ll be treated to a Scottish High Tea that is so much more than the traditional fare of haggis, porridge and whiskey. You’ll have to squint at the number of carbs you’ll ingest while you tuck into hot, buttery scones, ribbon sandwiches, sweet yum-yums AND a hot meal.

    Because of this, dinner tonight is not included. If you’re still peckish after your High Tea, we recommend an evening pub visit to the handsome town of Peebles, just 5 minutes down the road {at your own cost}. Ask the lovely team at Cringletie for their recommendations on the best places to eat!

  • Day 5

    Another day for a chilled-out hack in the Scottish Borders, where you’ll have a chance to appreciate the Borders way of life from between two pricked ears. You’ll be totally enchanted by this fairytale setting as your eyes feast on crumbling stone walls, blushing green paddocks, grandiose mansions perched on hillsides, dramatic moorlands dotted with sheep, and the River Tweed squiggling its way through the counties.

    After this beautiful morning ride, you’ll return for lunch at Cringletie, then limber up for a stint in the mini highland games! Seriously, could this itinerary get any more Scottish? I think not, and that’s why we LOVE it! Think traditional heavy athletic events like archery and the caber toss, as well as highland dance competitions, track and field events, and of course piping. Combining sport, fun and culture in a uniquely Scottish style, the highland games are a spectacle like no other. And YOU get to take part in it! #winning!

    Fun fact: Baron Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympics, was so impressed by a Highland display he saw at the 1889 Paris Exhibition that he introduced the hammer throw, shot put and tug o’ war to his competition! Talk about high praise! The former two are still included in the Olympics program to this day – just one of the many fascinating facets of the highland games.

  • Day 6

    Your last riding day is a true Braveheart finale: another Common Riding through a charming village and its picture-book surrounds. So button up your tweed for one final HURRAH and savour every moment of this historic Scottish event. It’s a real pinch-yourself moment, taking part in one of the oldest horse festivals in the world. And, now that you know the ropes, it’ll be even more fun! Don’t miss the chance to strike up conversations with the cheery locals riding alongside you – some families have been mounting up for the Common Ridings for centuries! Whether it’s last year’s Fair Lass or Coronet, or a real-life baron, you never know who you’ll meet, or what stories they’ll tell.

    Tonight you’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at Cringletie, reminiscing over a spectacular week with your new two- and four-legged friends.

  • Day 7

    This morning, you’ll savour one final delicious breakfast at Cringletie House before packing your bags and checking out. You’ll bid a fond farewell to Bill, his team and your fellow globetrotters, then head off on your merry way.

    Now that you’ve completed The Scottish Borders Ride, having stepped out on a Common Riding, tossed a shot-put, slugged a single-malt whiskey and appreciated some fine pipe music, you nearly qualify as an honorary Scot!

  • Transfer Information

    Please be aware that this is a self-driving riding holiday. You’ll need to hire a car, as you’ll be expected to drive to and from your ride destination each day, whether it’s the stables (15 minutes from Cringletie Hotel), the beach, or the Common Riding locations, which can be up to an hour away. There is no transfer service included with this ride.

    When you’re not in the saddle, thanks to your hire car, you’ll have the freedom to explore local towns and historical attractions (i.e. Traquair House and Abbotsford) in your down-time.

    If you’re a solo traveller, we can tee you up with another globetrotter booked on your departure date so you can share the cost of a hire car.

    Depending on your budget and where you’re flying from, you have the option of flying into either London or Edinburgh airports and hiring a car from there. Keep in mind, Edinburgh is a 1 hour drive from Cringletie Hotel while London is a 6 hour drive.

    Globetrotting is happy to provide a competitive quote on international flights, travel insurance, car hire and accommodation before and after your ride.

  • History of the Common Ridings

    Every summer, the towns of the Scottish Borders stage the Common Ridings, one of the oldest equestrian traditions in the world. The ridings aren’t just an unforgettable spectacle of horsemanship, pageantry and community spirit, they’re a custom upheld with real fervour by locals in homage to the region’s unique identity, shaped in part by its tumultuous past.

    A Common Riding remembers the days when the men of a settlement would ride around the exterior of their village to check that its borders hadn’t been encroached. The tradition of common riding dates back to the 13th century, in the days when the Border Reivers (a historical name for robbers and thieves) plagued locals with attacks, stealing cattle and goods. In these lawless times, the leaders of a town would appoint a leader and a number of the strongest townsmen, who would then ride the clan’s boundaries to protect their common lands and prevent encroachment by neighbouring landlords and their clans. This is a tradition that continues today in symbolic form, with magnificent rides involving hundreds of horses, ridden with a passion worthy of the reivers of old. Out of the 11 Common Ridings in existence today, Hawick, Selkirk, Langholm and Lauder all claim to be the oldest, but perhaps the true original is buried in the mists of time. Each community starts its celebration with the election of that year’s principal lass and lads, and in a colourful ceremony, the Burgh Flag or Standard is ‘bussed’ and tied to the staff by the principal lass, recalling the days when a knight’s lady attached her ribbon to his lance before battle. On horseback, they lead their followers in the festivities. It’s pure joy to ride alongside Scottish folk in honour of their heritage while careening through fluorescent-green paddocks, ancient forests and farms, then ending in the local village to wave to townsfolk who join in on the festivities.

  • Non-Riders

    This holiday is suitable for non-riders who have their own car – the Scottish Borders region is ripe with history and Cringletie House is a suitable base for a number of day trips around the area. The nearby Traquair House (Scotland’s oldest inhabited house) is certainly well worth a visit, as is Abbotsford in Melrose (home of Sir Walter Scott). Be sure to liaise with the team at Cringletie for more personalised suggestions. The non-rider package consists of all standard inclusions (i.e. meals, accommodation, extra activities within the itinerary, etc.) minus the riding.

  • Keen for another ride while in the UK?

    Eager to maximise your time in the saddle? We offer several UK rides with departures that align perfectly, allowing you to stack multiple rides to make the most of your time in the UK. Check them out:

    The Cotswolds Ride, England

    The English Rose Ride, England

    The Scottish Highlands Ride, Scotland

    The Thirlestane Castle Ride, Scotland

    Trans Wales Trail, Wales

What our valued Globetrotters say about The Scottish Borders Ride

Michelle N.

‘The Scottish Borders Ride was an absolute joy every day, from the care at Cringletie to the wonderful stables, to the magnificent horses that we had the absolute pleasure of riding. I cannot express enough how galloping in the countryside in Scotland brought so many dreams come true.’

Scottish Borders Ride, Scotland, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays

Lucinda M

‘If you dream of Scotland and Outlander, this is the ride for you. Running through the mountains atop your trusty steed, you can just imagine what it must have been like in the 1700s in Scotland. This Globetrotting holiday was an absolute delight from start to finish. The accommodation was superb, and with a room that had a much-needed bath after each ride. The food was of a very high standard, and the tack and horses were excellent. I was paired with the beautiful mare, Miss P, who was an absolute joy to ride. Whenever I felt unsure, she knew exactly what to do for me. The guides, Helen, Gemma, and Susy, were wonderful. Helen had exceptional knowledge of the local area, Gemma was a true horse-woman and the tour operator of the future, and Susy was knowledgeable about the horses and joined us for the first ride and several dinners. The common ride and the ride along the beach were particular highlights, but every moment was special.’

Scottish Borders Ride, Scotland, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays

Anne L

‘This was the riding holiday of a lifetime! Thus I will do it again next summer! I enjoyed all parts of the holiday: The Common Ridings, hacking in the forests and hills and on the beach, The Cringletie with its fantastic staff,  the gorgeous Irish horses, Helen’s warm hosting and Gemma’s calm and friendly supervision. I made many new friends with all of my wonderful fellow riders and organisers; in a week’s time we became such a good team to support each other. I was travelling solo and enjoyed every moment. Globetrotters seem to have so much in common despite nationality or background. It is a very well-planned holiday for a fit and experienced rider. You will safely enjoy every moment of the journey!’

Scottish Borders Ride, Scotland, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays

Jule W

‘Just got home from a dream vacation to Scotland! Along with some wonderful old friends, and lots of new ones we enjoyed a week of amazing horses, scenery, and tradition on the Scottish Borders ride. I don’t think I ever stopped smiling, and will treasure these memories for a lifetime! The accommodation was absolutely lovely – from the celebrity chef-prepared meals to the nightly chocolates on our down pillows, it was luxury living! The staff there took impeccable care of all of us. We also fully enjoyed our Scottish night filled with traditional Scottish games (and men in kilts!), a bagpiper, and a full haggis presentation (which I surprisingly ended up enjoying!). The hosts were top-notch as well. Gemma was consistently enthusiastic and engaging and did a great job matching each rider with the perfect horse. The horses were all fantastic – I rode 6 different ones and each one was wonderful in their own way. The Kelso Common Ride was something I’ll never forget, with almost 9 hours in the saddle (and a drizzle rain most of the day) – and I never stopped smiling! Galloping the beach in Dunbar on a full sun day was also a day to remember. Scotland is a painting everywhere you look, with green fields, stone walls, gurgling streams, sheep, quaint villages and cottages, and castles in all directions. I’m ready to go back!’

Scottish Borders Ride, Scotland, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays

Dina D

‘There are no perfect words to describe this incredible trip, but I’ll certainly try. First, this was a soul-gripping adventure that transformed me. Even as a lifelong frequent rider and horse enthusiast, I had to gain a new set of skills and confidence to take my riding to the next level. I’m so glad I didn’t let fear hold me back! These powerful and well-trained horses allowed me the opportunity to improve my riding but also to experience Scotland as a participant in one of the most honorable Scottish traditions. I became emotional as crowds with small children, teens, and elders from their front porches and windows would clap and cheer, “Hip hip hooray!” I would laugh uncontrollably as we would literally soar through grassy fields, beaches, and hillsides! The smile never left my face. I’m still transformed by the spirit of these wonderful people. Suzy and Gemma were brilliant at making us feel comfortable and pairing us with the ideal mounts. I have been changed in the best way possible. I’ve been given a gift of majestic horses and Scottish beauty all wrapped up in the trip of a lifetime!’

The Scottish Borders Ride, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays

Natalia Matilevica

‘The best Holiday I have had so far. Riding through the hills and rivers, galloping on the beach with a group of excellent horses, fun guests and outstanding guides. It was snowing for a few days which turned our holiday into a winter wonderland. I enjoyed every minute of it and cannot thank the staff and guides enough for this outstanding experience. Martin, Susy and Gemma made this holiday IMMACULATE!’

The Scottish Borders Ride, Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Megan Petry

‘If you’re an adrenalin junkie and love a hard and fast ride, this is the ride for you! To gallop alongside 140 other horses, up and down hills, through bogs, and over ditches with the townspeople out everywhere cheering us on was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Returning each day to a luxurious manor for a hot soak, gourmet dining, and a wee dram of scotch was the perfect ending to the perfect day. Considering how few folk experience this, I recommend getting into shape and signing up now. This is not one to miss!’

The Scottish Boarders Ride - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Sarah Beattie

‘A magical experience I will always cherish. The horses were amazing and a privilege to ride. The Common Ridings were truly thrilling, and I had a smile on my face the whole time. Taking part in such unique festivals, following a pipe band into town and riding through spectacular scenery, was incredibly special and better than I could ever have imagined. The hosts provided the most wonderful riding experiences that built my confidence as the week progressed. From the glass of port at the beginning of the first ride to the hot chocolate at the end of the last, they looked after us so well. Every care was taken for our safety, without diminishing the thrill of riding superb, powerful horses in truly unique circumstances. Every aspect of this holiday was so well planned and organised. The accommodation at Cringletie was beautiful, the food was delicious, and my room was incredibly comfortable, with countless thoughtful touches. It was an incredible Globetrotting adventure in every respect.’

The Scottish Borders Ride, Scotland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays’

Harli Dollinger

‘This was the second time my sister and I did the Scottish Borders Ride, and they were both amazing experiences. We stayed at Cringletie House, an absolutely lovely hotel with great food and staff catering to your every need. Scotland is so beautiful, and the people are friendly and giving. I just love them! But you want to know about the horses and the rides, right? Susy and Gemma have the horses so well trained; they are a pleasure to ride. I rode several horses but fell in love with Adonis! I had the best time riding him on Dunbar Beach and again on our ride around Jedburgh. He was big and smooth and never put a foot out of place. The group of riders on this trip were great, too! They were interesting, kind, friendly, and funny – truly enjoyable to be around. It really is the trip of a lifetime.’

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