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This is a fantastic equestrian trail ride through the Scottish Borders, visiting historical sites and enjoying stunning scenery along the way. Starting from a highly respected riding center, the horseback riding leads to the Falls of Clyde, the hidden homes of the Border Reivers, Traquair Castle and the Bowhill Estate to name but a few. The trails run from April to October, giving a spectacular array of color as the seasons change, each with it’s own selection of flora and fauna to enjoy.

Out on the trail, the full-board accommodation is in a variety of inns and castles, each with their own history and character to enjoy. Most have beautiful grounds to explore and many also offer spa treatments to help relax after a long day in the saddle. This is the perfect holiday for families and non-riders

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from DT of Vacaville on 17/10/2024

Ride Summary
The trails allowed us some of the most breathtaking views - just perfect! I came very close to booking with Globetrotters for the Hawick common riding so I could ride the borders army ancestral line. I am SO glad I booked with you instead - everything about this tour was 5 star.
What was your overall impression of the holiday
Maureen and all the staff at the Scottish Equi made this the most memorable trip - from the kitchen staff to the guides - everyone was just phenomenal.
Overall impression
Unicorn Trails sales staff

Riding tour leader

Additional Comments
Horses and Tack

Additional Comments
Meals

Accommodation

Miscellaneous

Was this trip accurately described to you beforehand?
Please give more details to explain your response:
Was there anything you should have known and were not told? YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
Navigating Scotsrail was a nightmare - we ended up at the wrong train station. The station closest to the Equestrian centre is IN the town of Lanark, but it is NOT Lanark station.
What could we do to improve this ride?
How would you rate the difficulty of this ride out of 10 where 1 is very easy and 10 is very advanced?
0
Please explain why you scored it as you did:
Would you recommend Unicorn Trails to your friends?
Please give more details to explain your response:
May we use you as a reference for other people wishing to go on this ride?
Any other comments:
Maureen and her staff were exemplary in their friendliness, willingness to help, professionalism and knowledge of local history, flora and fauna. The horses were well cared for, and I must say Maureen matched us all with the best horse for our ability. The tour of Traquair was wonderful, and all accommodations were well appointed.
Unicorn comments: I am sorry the railways were so difficult to navigate but very pleased to see you had a great time. :-)

Day 1
Arrive at the riding centre after 2pm. Meet fellow riders and take a short ride around the beautiful Centre to get a feel of the environment. Dinner in the restaurant.

Day 2
A full day, picnic ride through the World Heritage Site of New Lanark Village and onto the Famous Falls of Clyde, the highest and most spectacular waterfalls in Scotland. Enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing through the delightful countryside. This ride is perfect for getting the feel of the horse and seeing if any changes need to be made. Maybe visit the Health Spa in New Lanark Village. Dinner in the evening and overnight in 4-star accommodation.

Day 3
After breakfast, transfer to Biggar where the trail begins across open country with the steep-sided, rounded, Southern Upland hills rising before you. These were the hidden homes of the Border Reivers, the lawless families who plundered the English borders. The ride follows along the John Buchan Way, named to commemorate the author of “The 39 Steps” and other adventure books. The village of Broughton houses a museum of his works. Lunch will be enjoyed in a secluded farmstead nestled in the hills. In the afternoon you ride to Stobo Valley over another hilltop, and in to Manor Valley. Last stop will be at beautiful Stobo Castle, an award winning Spa, for a sumptuous dinner and overnight. Enjoy full use of the spa facilities (or similar)

Day 4
Today’s ride leads along an old drovers’ way and around the quaint town of Peebles. These roads have walls on each side to make driving cattle easier as well as to break the wind and snow. The route leads close to Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, Traquair Castle. Owned by the Stewarts, the entry gate was locked when ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ failed in his bid to take the Crown from the Hanoverians, and the family vowed the gate would remain locked until the Stewarts regained the throne. The Stewarts never gained the throne and the huge gate remains rusty and locked to this day. In the afternoon, the trail offers a spectacular view of Tweed Valley. Overnight in a beautiful old Barony Castle and enjoy dinner and the facilities of the Spa. This is a historic castle with a fascinating history.

Day 5
Continue deeper into the Border country - the most spectacular scenery in all of Scotland. The guide will include all the best vantage points. Overnight and dinner in the famous Hunting Lodge in the town of Selkirk. After dinner, take a stroll into the historic town, the scene of many battles between the Scots and English; all beautiful and authentic.

Day 6
Ride through the awesome estate of the Duke of Buccleuch, the biggest landowner in Scotland. The ride leads to a vantage point with a 360 degree view of the borders of Scotland and England. After lunch, say goodbye to the horses and head to the truck and minibus and return to the Centre. Tonight there will be a 'welcome back' toast of traditional Glayva followed by dinner and a certificate presentation in the restaurant. Overnight in the complex.

Day 7
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the departure airport or train station with great memories of a wonderful week.

Non-riders and other activities:
There are many options available for non-riders, who are welcome to stay at the riding centre for the duration of the trail. Mountain biking, water sports and country walks can all be arranged through the hotel. Lanark racecourse and the World Heritage site of New Lanark are close by and the Falls of Clyde, and are within walking distance. Glasgow and Edinburgh are both less than an hour by car with many activities available including various museums and whiskey tours. There are several golf courses nearby (St. Andrews is approx. 2hrs by car). The Carmichael Estate and visitor centre are approx. 20mins by car. Glentress Forest, which has a range of mountain biking trails, is approx. 1hr by car. M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park is less than an hour’s drive.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

Horses & Riding

There are 30 horses at the riding centre including cobs, Appaloosas and Warmbloods. For novices there are schoolmasters that will inspire trust. For more experienced riders there are bolder and more powerful horses available. There are also many ponies for children of all ages and experience.

The tack and riding style is English. The pace of the riding is dictated by rider experience and the terrain which is either flat or rolling hillside. Safety is paramount and riding is done in traditional English style.


Rider requirements

This ride is suitable for all abilities from intermediate to experienced riders. Please note that you must be able to do rising trot for a sustained period of time and take a forward seat / stand in stirrups while riding uphill and cantering. Riders do not have to assist in the preparation or care of the horses, although you may help to groom and tack up if you wish. The minimum age for this ride is 12 years. Younger riders with high levels of experience will be considered, please enquire.

Unfortunately non-riders can not be catered for on this trail

Weight Limit

The weight limit for this ride is 210 lb/95 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

Accommodation is in 3 and 4 star hotels, inns and castles with comfortable double and twin rooms. At the riding centre hotel, all rooms have an en-suite with shower, toilet and sink; towels are provided. The rooms also come with a flat screen TV and DVD player, complimentary tea and coffee, kettle, iron and board and hair dryer. There is free WiFi throughout the hotel. Garden Rooms can sleep up to 4 people and include a microwave, fridge and toaster in addition to the usual amenities. There is a lounge for guests to relax in and various entertainment facilities for children. Laundry and drying services are also available. There is also a fitness centre on site for guests to use.



Facilities at hotels along the trail vary, but are all to a 3 or 4 star level. Many include spa facilities (additional fees apply to use these). The hotels used are Stobo Castle, Peebles Hydro, McDonald Cardrona, Phillipburn House, and Dryburgh Abbey or similar.



Meals at the riding centre are served in the reception restaurant area with table service. Menus vary throughout the year but are always creative using good quality ingredients. Breakfast can be pre-ordered the night before with the option to have a continental buffet, traditional Scottish breakfast or your choice of cooked items. The on-site bistro is also open Wednesday to Sunday and serves a selection of meals including homemade pizzas and burgers. Children’s menus are also available.



Lunch on the trail will be a picnic with water provided. Many of the inns and castle hotels along the route offer seasonal menus using local produce.


Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Documents - Visa and Consulate Info

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the US travel advice is available from: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/UnitedKingdom.html In Canada travel advice is available from:: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/united-kingdom

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions


Climate Summary

Winters are cool and overcast, with a January mean of 5.0 °C (41.0 °F), though lows sometimes fall below freezing. Snowfall accumulation is infrequent and short-lived. The spring months (March to May) are usually mild and often quite pleasant. Many of Scotland's trees and plants begin to flower at this time of the year and parks and gardens are filled with spring colours.
During the summer months (June to August) the weather can vary considerably from day to day ranging from relatively cool and wet to quite warm with the odd sunny day. Long dry spells of warm weather are generally very scarce. Overcast and humid conditions without rain are frequent. The warmest month is usually July. Autumns are generally cool to mild with increasing precipitation. During early autumn there can be some settled periods of weather and it can feel pleasant with mild temperatures and some sunny days.

Climate Chart

Health

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in the UK and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.


Electricity

In United Kingdom the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

Mobile, WiFi and charging

All rooms have electricity for charging cameras and batteries. There are shops in Lanark where you can purchase extra batteries if necessary. If you want to bring a GoPro please be advised that you will have to have permission from all other guests and guides that they are willing to be filmed.

Packing List

- Riding Helmet - we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384 (One can be provided, but we recommend you bring your own)
- Gloves
- Jodhpurs - jodhpurs, breeches or other comfortable trousers (jeans may rub and can also be quite hot)
- Riding Boots - it is important to have correct shoes or boots for horse riding. Jodhpur or ankle boots with a rubber sole are recommended but sturdy shoes with a low heel are acceptable (such as walking boots)
- Half Chaps - these are great when worn with ankle boots and help prevent the stirrup leathers rubbing against your legs
- T-shirts
- Warm jumper
- Waterproof coat
- Casual clothes for the evening
- Swim suit
- Sunscreen
- Personal Items - toiletries, any medicines you require and please be sure to take insect repellent
- Refillable Water Bottle - it's very important to drink a lot of water when it's hot, especially when doing physical activities
- Camera, spare Batteries/Chargers - an absolute must! It is also a good idea to take a camera case you can strap around your waist or onto a belt for whilst you are riding
- Binoculars

Programmes

These programmes are 7 days/6 nights with 5 days riding available on set dates.

Departure Dates

2025: 4 (FULL), 18 May(FULL); 1, 15 Jun; 6 (Full), 20 (Full) Jul; 3, 17 (Full) Aug; 7, 21 Sep; 5, 14 Oct

Pricing
No single supplement is charged if the rider is willing to share with someone of the same sex, and a sharer can be found.
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description £
20257d/6n5double pp2,995
20257d/6n5single supplement499
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description
20257d/6n5double pp3,599
20257d/6n5single supplement599
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description US $
20257d/6n5double pp3,859
20257d/6n5single supplement619
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description SEK
20257d/6n5double pp42,105
20257d/6n5single supplement6,855
Recommended Reading

Braveheart (1995) In the footsteps of William Wallace - Alan Young


Wildlife

Hares, rabbits, deer, badgers, foxes, hawks and various other birdlife.

Other Information

Unfortunately non-riders cannot be catered for on this trail.

Other Country Information

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom (UK) or Britain, is a sovereign country in western Europe. Lying off the north-western coast of the European mainland, the United Kingdom includes the island of Great Britain, the north-eastern part of the island of Ireland and many smaller islands. Apart from this land border, the United Kingdom is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, with the North Sea to its east, the English Channel to its south and the Celtic Sea to its south-south-west, giving it the 12th-longest coastline in the world. The Irish Sea lies between Great Britain and Ireland. With an area of 242,500 square kilometres (93,600 sq mi), the United Kingdom is the 78th-largest sovereign state in the world and the 11th-largest in Europe. It is also the 21st-most populous country, with an estimated 65.1 million inhabitants. Together, this makes it the fourth-most densely populated country in the European Union. The capital of the United Kingdom and its largest city is London, a global city and financial centre with an urban area population of 10.3 million, the fourth-largest in Europe and second-largest in the European Union. Other major urban areas in the United Kingdom include the conurbations centred on Birmingham, Leeds, Glasgow, Liverpool and Manchester. The United Kingdom consists of four countries—England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The last three have devolved administrations, each with varying powers based in their capitals, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast, respectively. The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of governance. The monarch is now King Charles III following the passing of his mother Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned from 6 February 1952 until 8 September 2023. England is separated from continental Europe by the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south. The country covers five-eighths of the island of Great Britain (which lies in the North Atlantic) in its centre and south; and includes over 100 smaller islands such as the Isles of Scilly, and the Isle of Wight. England's terrain mostly comprises low hills and plains, especially in central and southern England. However, there are uplands in the north (for example, the mountainous Lake District, and the Pennines) and in the southwest (for example, Dartmoor and the Cotswolds). England has a temperate maritime climate: it is mild with temperatures not much lower than 0 °C (32 °F) in winter and not much higher than 32 °C (90 °F) in summer. The weather is damp relatively frequently and is changeable. The coldest months are January and February, the latter particularly on the English coast, while July is normally the warmest month. Months with mild to warm weather are May, June, September and October. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year. Scotland's only land border is with England, which runs for 60 miles (97 km) in a north-easterly direction from the Solway Firth in the west to the North Sea on the east coast. Scotland accounts for just under a third of the total area of the UK, covering 78,772 square kilometres (30,410 sq mi) and including nearly eight hundred islands, predominantly west and north of the mainland; notably the Hebrides, Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands. Scotland is the most mountainous country in the UK. The more rugged Highland region contains the majority of Scotland's mountainous land, including Ben Nevis which at 1,343 metres (4,406 ft) is the highest point in the British Isles. The climate of Scotland is temperate and very changeable, but rarely extreme. Scotland is warmed by the North Atlantic Drift and given the northerly location of the country, experiences much milder conditions than areas on similar latitudes, such as Labrador in Canada - where icebergs are a common feature in winter. Wales accounts for less than a tenth of the total area of the UK, covering 20,779 square kilometres (8,020 sq mi). Wales is mostly mountainous, though South Wales is less mountainous than North and mid Wales. The highest mountains in Wales are in Snowdonia and include Snowdon which, at 1,085 metres (3,560 ft), is the highest peak in Wales. Wales has a maritime climate, the predominant winds being south-westerly and westerly, blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. This means that the weather in Wales is in general mild, cloudy, wet and windy. The country's wide geographic variations cause localised differences in amounts of sunshine, rainfall and temperature. Rainfall in Wales varies widely, with the highest average annual totals in Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons, and the lowest near the coast and in the east, close to the English border. In July 2007, England is introducing a smoking ban in pubs and other public places, following on from the success of the scheme in Ireland. Be aware that there may be large fines for smoking in banned areas. The UK is on GMT time. Although most weights and measures are now metric (celsius, litres and kg) some imperial measures remain and distances are indicated in miles. The international dialling code is +44.


Travel Summary

Meeting-point (getting there):
Glasgow (GLA) or Edinburgh (EDI) airport or riding centre
Transfer:
2025: Transfer from Edinburgh Airport £100pp each way
Transfers from Glasgow Airport £140.00pp each way (subject to change).
Flight Guide:
2025: London to Edinburgh (EDI) return from £90pp (Season Dependent)
2025: London to Glasgow (GLA) return from £80pp (Season Dependent)
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