Horse Riding

Whether you’re traveling by foot, bike or horseback, always remember that the South of Scotland is a shared space. It’s important to respect each and every part of our land. Here’s how you can do just that:

• Horse-riders have the same access rights as walkers and cyclists in Scotland, allowing you to explore almost every inch of our beautiful countryside. Just make sure to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code while you travel.
• Check that the trails you take are suitable for you and your horse. The British Horse Society has fantastic guides and resources for access.
• Respect the privacy, safety, and livelihoods of those living and working in the South of Scotland. It’s best to plan your trip between May and October, as this is when activities like lambing, shooting and timber felling are minimal.
• Try to avoid startling or disrupting surrounding wildlife. Ride slowly past all livestock, and don’t forget to leave gates as you found them.
• Steer clear of grassy paths or unsurfaced high hill routes during wet weather, as the ground can be easily torn up by horses’ hooves.
• Respect other road users. Proceed slowly and with care whenever you meet  or overtake pedestrians and cyclists.

As with most activities, the best way to ensure that everything goes to plan is by thinking about your actions ahead of time. For example:

• Take it easy and refrain from jumping hedges, gates, or stacks of timber if they’re in your path. Go around them or find an alternative route.
• Caring for one four-legged friend is a big enough responsibility. Therefore, we advise leaving your dog at home, or having it under very close control.
• Keep parking areas clean by removing any litter or dung.
• Be sure to turn your horse box to face the exit when you arrive at a parking area. This will make it easier for you to pull out of a space should it become busy while you’re out riding.

We encourage you to bring your own horse to the South of Scotland. But please respect local biosecurity guidelines. Ensure that your horse is fully vaccinated against Equine Influenza, and that this information is detailed in the passport. Don’t vaccinate your horse within 7 days of travel. If your horse is showing signs of strangles or any other notifiable disease, we ask you not to travel with them.