A Week in the Saddle, A Week in a Castle
Does your heart race at the thought of seeing Scotland’s legendary countryside from between two pricked ears and a windswept mane? Does the idea of calling a 16th century castle home for a week make your eyes bulge? Then make no mistake: the pipes, the pipes are calling, and the Scottish Borders await! This week-long itinerary is THE perfect combination of quality time in the saddle and quintessential Scottish experiences.
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Trip Highlights
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Calling a magnificent 16th century castle your home for a week
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Experiencing the many moods of the Scottish landscape, from the meandering River Tweed to the cloud-kissed moorlands and pristine beaches
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Living the life of a duke or duchess while enjoying the luxurious lifestyle offered at Thirlestane Castle
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Chasing away the chilly air with a dram of whisky by a crackling fire
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Shivers running down your spine as the history and legends of the Scottish Borders seep into your soul
Details
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Riding levels
Suitable for all riding abilities.
*Beginner riders are expected to be confident rising/posting to the trot and able to enjoy a steady canter. You MUST be confident riding in an English all-purpose saddle. Riding groups will be split according to ability so that everyone feels comfortable.Not sure what your riding ability is? See the definitions below.
- Type of tack
English all-purpose saddles and bridles.
- Horse breed
A mixture of Irish Draughts, Irish Cobs, Irish Sport Horses and Connemaras.
- Accommodation
You’ll stay in the beautifully restored five-star South Wing of 16th-century Thirlestane Castle in the Scottish Borders, featuring eight ensuite rooms across five elegant apartments with kitchens and sitting rooms, set in peaceful parkland near Lauder, with the chance to dine in the castle’s grand State Dining Room and historic Victorian Kitchen. Please note Thirlestane Castle is a historic private estate and not a full-service hotel for example there is no room service.
- Pace
The pace is variable depending on the nature of the terrain, but riders will enjoy long stretches of trotting and cantering.
- 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.
- Group size
A minimum and maximum of 10 riding guests. Non-riders may join the off-horse activities, with the entire group size being no more than 16.
- Minimum age
12 years of age
- Time in Saddle
On average, between 2 to 4 hours daily.
- When to go
March, April, August, October and November.
- Languages
English
What’s included (and what’s not)
Included
- All riding activities
- Accommodation in a luxurious Castle
- Meals (with the exception of 1x lunch and 2x dinners in the itinerary)
- Private tour of the Castle
- Housekeeping every second day
- All transfers in the itinerary
Excluded
- International and regional flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Alcohol (BYO is welcome or you can purchase from the Castle's cellar)
- 2x dinners and 1x lunch
- Additional activities available at Thirlestane (e.g. spa treatments, local tours)
Departure dates and prices
Instalment plans available
Lock in your ride with a 10% deposit and pay the rest over time – interest-free in 10 easy payments. Learn more.
Per person
2026
August 17 to 23, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
November 2 to 8, 2026
November 23 to 29, 2026
2027
March 15 to 21, 2027
April 19 to 25, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
August 16 to 22, 2027
November 1 to 7, 2027
November 15 to 21, 2027
We'll email you — you'll be among the first to hear when new departure dates are released.
The fun bits
Payment details
- A fixed Booking Fee of £80 GBP
- All bookings are charged in the local currency of the ride destination.
- Accepted payment method is by credit or debit card only.
Cancellation policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ride, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellation fees apply based on how close your departure date is, and deposits are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your booking. Read our full cancellation policy.
International fees
If you're paying in a currency different from your own, your bank may charge a conversion or international transaction fee.
Please note
There are 2x twin share rooms and 6x single rooms available. These will be assigned by preference on a first come, first served basis.
Itinerary
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.
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Day 1: Arrival and orientation ride
3 hours in the saddleDon your tartan and fasten your seatbelts, globetrotters, because today you’re driving to the Scottish Borders! A land where the rolling hills shimmer in the dappled, ever-changing light and the rousing music of the pipes still seems to echo across the valleys, the Borders will amaze you from the first moment you lay eyes on it.
You’ll be picked up from Edinburgh Airport and transferred to Thirlestane Castle (yes, you’re staying in a 16th century castle!). If you’ve chosen to hire a car, please arrive at the castle at 12:30pm. Here your hosts, Edward and Sarah Maitland-Carew, will give you a true Scottish welcome involving afternoon tea (and cake!) in the panelled dining room. Then there’s time to settle into your room or take a stroll around the gorgeous grounds of the estate, before changing into your riding clothes.
At 2:30pm, you’ll head out to meet Susy and her gorgeous team of horses. Once you’ve been paired with your steed, you’ll head off on a three-hour trail ride through the sublimely beautiful countryside surrounding the estate. By the time you dismount you’ll feel a strong connection to both the Borders and your horse.
Dinner tonight is a relaxed affair in Thirlestane’s rustic Victorian Kitchen. The sharing menu will allow you to sample the talented chefs’ delicious and varied offerings. Then you’re free to enjoy the evening as you wish before sinking contentedly into bed.
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Day 2: Estate ride
3 to 4 hours in the saddleWaking up in your five-star apartment in the South Wing of Thirlestane Castle, the dream continues as you saunter out to breakfast – a jaw-dropping affair featuring a range of cooked and continental options. Not to worry, though, you’ll soon work it off with a ride around the estate! Susy will discuss the route options with you to ensure that everyone’s needs and desires are catered for.
Afterwards, a lunch of soup and sandwiches will be served at the castle, then you’ll have a few hours to enjoy however you please.
The piercing sound of the bagpipes will summon you to the state drawing room this evening, where the Castle’s piper will give you a true Scottish welcome while you sit back and enjoy a tipple. Then you’ll enter the lavish state dining room for a feast that’s as Scottish as Billy Connolly.
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Day 3: Beach ride
2 hours in the saddleAfter another filling breakfast at the Castle, you’ll head to the beach (about a 50min drive from Thirlestane, transfer included). Yes, that’s right Globetrotters, today you’ll get to explore 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 haven where farmland kisses the sea – perfect for long beach canters and wading in the shallows.
After your ride you’ll be transferred back to Thirlestane, where you’ll be treated to a private guided tour of the castle with your own personal guide. The stories and secrets within these walls will astound you, and you’ll come away with a new appreciation for your surrounds.
This evening you’re free to spend it however you wish. We recommend heading into the local village of Lauder for dinner at a traditional Scottish pub (dinner and transport tonight is not included in the ride price – but the pay-off is the chance to totally immerse yourself in local life). Your hosts at the Castle, Sarah and Edward, will be able to offer some wonderful recommendations for you to try – just ask!
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Day 4: Borders region
Optional Riding DayAfter your big night out, you’ll be able to sleep in this morning, then enjoy a late breakfast while mulling over your options for the day. If you wish, you can ride out with Susy in the late morning, or you can take the entire day off. Lunch today is not included in the ride price and can be enjoyed at your leisure.
Although there is plenty to do at the Castle, if you’ve chosen to have a rest day off the horse, then we highly recommend making the most of your hire car (if you’ve opted for this) and touring the Borders. Local attractions include the towns of Melrose, Hawick and Jedburgh, The Rosslyn Chapel, and plenty of tweed and cashmere mills and shops to satisfy both the craftsperson and the avid shopper. Your costs for the day are at your own expense, but your hosts, Edward and Sarah, are more than happy to help you design the perfect day out. Everyone at the Castle is a wealth of knowledge, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice and recommendations!
You’ll regroup at Thirlestane in the evening, and depending on the weather, dinner will be either a barbeque in the courtyard or another laid-back meal in the Victorian Kitchen.
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Day 5: Castle Moor
4 hours in the saddleToday, Susy’s team will take you riding on the Castle moor, a rugged, wild landscape where your horse’s surefootedness will really come into play. You’ll tuck into lunch in a bothy – a small wooden hut on the moor, where the isolation and starkness of winters gone by is very easily imagined.
After making your way back to the Castle, the afternoon is yours – enjoy the cosy lounge room and beautiful outlook of your apartment, or perhaps take a leisurely drive through the countryside.
Tonight there is the option to take the train from Stow to Edinburgh for a tasty meal and a wander through this enchanting city (at your own expense). If you wish to do so, you’ll need to be ready to leave in the early evening. You can self-drive to Stow railway station or catch a taxi and train tickets can be bought onboard. And for those who fancy a quiet night in, a beautiful home-baked meal is on offer for around £15 per person, ready for you to pop in the oven in your apartment’s fully-equipped kitchen.
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Day 6: Lauder Common
3 to 4 hours in the saddleFor your last day of riding, Susy is taking you out onto Lauder Common. Here you’ll traverse the Common Ride trails, and the thunder of galloping hooves and the cry of the pipes will seem to echo over the stonewalled hills. Those who wish to canter will have ample opportunity to loosen the reins and fly across the plush green fields, while the rest carry on at slower pace. Dismounting at the top of a hill, you’ll savour a picnic lunch (provided by the amazing team at the Castle) while taking in the gorgeous views over Lauderdale and Thirlestane. Then you’ll get back in the saddle one last time and ride back to the estate, where you’ll say a fond farewell to the horse who has carried you on your Scottish journey.
A final gala dinner will be prepared for you tonight, with drinks sipped in the state drawing room and your meal served in the state dining room. Then you’ll retire to your apartment to dream of the week’s incredible adventures.
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Day 7: Departure
Non-riding dayThis morning you’ll enjoy one last delicious breakfast at Thirlestane before checking out. You’ll bid a fond farewell to Edward, Sarah and the Castle team, say goodbye to your riding guides, Susy and Gemma (who have no doubt become firm friends) and will depart around 9:30am to be transferred back to Edinburgh Airport for your onwards travel. Haste ye back, globetrotters!
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Non-Riders
This itinerary is a brilliant holiday option for non-riders – – the region is ripe with history and Thirlestane Castle is a suitable base for a number of day trips around the area (a hire car is recommended for non-riders). The non-rider price consists of all standard inclusions in the rider package (i.e. meals, accommodation, extra activities within the itinerary etc.) minus the riding element.
There’s plenty to do/see/explore in the Scottish Borders, including (but not limited to):
- Melrose Abbey – a 12th Century monastery
- Borders Distillery – the first whisky distillery in the Scottish Borders (circa 1837) which also produces gin and vodka. A personal tour and private tasting can be arranged.
- Floors Castle and Walled Gardens, Kelso – the largest inhabited castle in Scotland (larger than Thirlestane… and that’s saying something. You’ll understand when you see it!!)
- Rosslyn Chapel – a 15th Century chapel made famous by the Dan Brown novel The Da Vinci Code.
- Multiple renowned golf courses all just a short drive away.
- Guided fishing in the River Tweed.
And much, MUCH more!
Be sure to liaise with your hosts, Edward and Sarah, for some Scottish-inspired activities.
Transfer information
All transfers required throughout the riding itinerary are included within the ride price, including a pick up/drop off transfer service at Edinburgh Airport on the first and last days of the ride.
On day 1, pick up from Edinburgh Airport is at 11:30am outside WH Smith in the arrivals hall (numbered 14 on THIS airport map). Please ensure your flight lands no later than 10:45am to give yourself time to clear customs, collect your luggage and meet the transfer on time.
On the final day of the itinerary, the transfer will depart Thirlestane Castle at around 9:30am. If booking international flights home this day, please ensure they depart after 2pm.
Please note
Self-drive is also an option, in which case you’ll need to arrive at Thirlestane Castle at 12:30pm on day 1.
Accommodation
You will be staying at the magnificent 16th century Thirlestane Castle, one of the oldest and finest inhabited castles in Scotland. The castle is set in a quiet meadow landscape on the outskirts of Lauder, a charming town in the Scottish Borders region, just over half an hour south of Edinburgh. Please note Thirlestane Castle is not a full-service hotel for example there is no room service.
You’ll be staying in the South Wing of the castle, which consists of eight bedrooms (each with their own ensuite) split into five apartments, and has been finished to a five-star standard with exceptional views of the parkland and estate. The rooms have been decorated in a classic but contemporary style.
Each apartment also has its own kitchen and sitting room should you wish to relax and make yourself a cup of tea after a long day in the saddle or sight-seeing around the Borders. You’ll also have the opportunity to dine in Thirlestane Castle’s portrait-lined State Dining Room and the rustic Victorian Kitchen.
NB: There are 2x twin share rooms and 6x single rooms available. These will be assigned by preference on a first come, first served basis.
Food
Expect a full Scottish breakfast, a light lunch of soup and/or sandwiches and a two or three course dinner in the evening.
Reviews
Courtney W
Carol H
Shawn V
Rose S
Lauren K
Cindy D
Cathy B
Lisa H
Julie B
Lauren S
Rowena P
Natalia M
Hope T
Madeline M
Barbara P
Christina B
Cheryl W
Renee L
Barbara N
Fiona R
Emily S
Hope T
Diana H
Doreen H
Maddie M
Christina B
Alicia T
27 reviews
Courtney W
From the first hello to the final farewell, this trip was an absolute dream. The accommodations were spectacular, the team was so kind, the food was delicious and every single day was better than the last. I loved this ride so much I booked it again for next year on the second day. It was honestly one of my most special and favorite trips I have ever experienced and I am a very seasoned traveller! I cannot wait to be here again. I might make it a yearly trip!
Carol H
Riding out of Thirlestane Castle each day was a wonderful experience. It gave us all of the sight, sounds and senses of Scotland, including the luxury of a castle stay. We got in plenty of riding, but also had time to relax and explore the surrounding areas. Highly recommend this trip!
Shawn V
Having been to Scotland before I was determined to come back and ride. My friend Sarah, and I, did the Cotswolds ride last year. The Thirlestane Castle ride was an amazing experience. The horses are calm, level headed, sure footed and perfect partners. Suzy will make sure you have the right horse for you.
Rose S
‘The Thirstane Castle Ride is a dream come true! This ride combines epic scenery, high-level BIG horses, and long gallops. One of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever had. The Castle is historic, and the accommodations are high-end. The staff and the riding guides create a flow that makes every day feel fresh, and every ride feel completely unique. 10 stars!’
Lauren K
‘If you are thinking of booking Thirlestane Castle… DO IT. I had been staring at Globetrotting rides for years and finally gave it a go! Scotland has always been a dream of mine, and riding horses for a full week sounded lovely. My husband came as a non-rider, and the castle also accommodated our 2-year-old daughter! Every detail was thought of, from travel to rooms and food. The horses are magnificent: athletic, sure-footed, confident, know their jobs, and they LOVE them. Gemma was an incredible guide, keeping everyone safe while ensuring we saw the countryside and had beautiful rides. Both she and Susy know their horses and Lauder, and I loved having breakfast and dinner with them daily! They made it a life-changing experience. Galloping on the North Sea beach was breathtaking and unforgettable. Riding Titan for my last two days was also life-changing—the most forward, powerful, and incredible horse I have ridden. I ride 3-4 days a week at home, but riding Titan across open fields levelled me up and boosted my confidence. I am so grateful for that experience! Thank you for giving my family and me the most magical vacation!’
Cindy D
‘This was a bucket list ride, and I had a great time. All the guides and hosts made the experience first class. Everything was considered, the food was great and the accommodations were better than five star. The horses were fantastically well trained, well cared for and top quality!’
Cathy B
‘This was truly the trip of a lifetime. Riding each day on a wonderful horse with excellent guides was amazing—so much fun! It was lambing season, which added an extra bonus while riding through the fields, and the weather was beautiful. The accommodations and food were superb, and every member of the staff was lovely. All of my fellow riders got along beautifully, and I feel fortunate to have met them. Once again, it was the trip of a lifetime.’
Lisa H
‘This experience was life-changing! I know that is true for me, and I know it by watching the riders around me. We were all going through something, and we did not come back the same riders at the end of the week that we set out as on our first day. For me, I got to remember what my body is MEANT to do, which has often been hard in middle age. I felt like I could trust my body again, and honestly, I think it felt like it could trust me again, too. There were so many times that I or other riders were whooping during a canter in pure joy and excitement at the freedom. It’s not every day that I get to feel that kind of joy anymore. So, was it worth it? Absolutely. That feeling is worth everything to me. And even for those of us who are lucky enough to get a chance to ride at home consistently, as one of our group members said, “These are my PEOPLE.” And she is right; we need each other out there.’
Julie B
‘I can’t recommend this ride enough! The accommodation in the castle was very luxurious and spacious. I slept so well every night which was a bonus. The food and dining experiences were decadently enjoyable, enhanced by the warm welcome of the hosts. The horses were sturdy and reliable and the scenery was breathtaking as we discovered the Estate, rolling hills covered in purple heather, green grassy meadows and transported to a nearby beach for a final gallop day. The horses were kind and responsive and it was evident that they were well loved. Gemma, our guide was an absolute professional, who made the ride so enjoyable. She managed the days of riding with just the right amount of activity. It was hard to leave our newfound friends and horses, that we shared so much joy with.’
Lauren S
‘I was looking for a horseback riding adventure to celebrate a milestone birthday and the Thirlestane Castle Ride truly delivered! From waking up in a castle each morning to cantering through the beautiful Scottish Borders countryside on a lovely Irish Sport Horse, this is a trip I will never forget!’
Rowena P
‘Thirlestane is a unique and special experience. Be prepared to be wowed, for your eyes to water in the gallop, and to fall in love with Scotland!’
Natalia M
‘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!’
Hope T
‘I recently went on the Thirlestane Castle ride for the second time and it was once again an amazing experience that exceeded my expectations. The team treated us like family, and it was a privilege to be part of such a united group. They went above and beyond to ensure our comfort throughout the week. I had the pleasure of riding Acropolis, a beautiful dapple grey with a sweet face and kind eyes. He definitely lived up to his reputation as a steady eddy and took great care of me for the entire week. If I could I would book this trip every year without hesitation!’
Madeline M
‘The Thirlestane Castle ride is a must-do for any equestrian who has always wanted to explore Scotland the traditional way! The scenery is stunning, the rides are to die for, and the horses and guides couldn’t be more perfectly suited to the trip. I rode Derwin, and he is, without exaggeration, one of the best horses I’ve ever ridden. Surefooted, brave, and a joy to canter over the moors – with tons of go! Gemma was absolutely invaluable and admirably flexed with the needs of our diverse group over the course of the week. If Scotland is calling to you, this is the best way to answer!’
Barbara P
This was a dream come true. I had sustained injuries and resulting surgeries because of them and was unsure if this ride would be doable for me. I made the decision to go and am so happy that I did. Everything and everyone was more wonderful than I imagined.
The horses are amazing and great care is made to match the right horse and rider.
The accommodations were beautiful and comfortable and everyone was so welcoming and helpful.
I loved it so much that I am booked again for next year!
Christina B
‘The Thirlestane Castle Ride exceeded all my high expectations! The accommodations, hospitality, food, horses and experiences were all first rate. It’s a rare treat to have everything come together in such high standards. Would I repeat this trip? In a heartbeat! Huge thanks to Kate and Laura at Globetrotting and the Maitlands at Thirlestane.’
Cheryl W
‘Nothing will compare to the first day of this trip – seeing the beautiful accommodations and going out on the first ride. I just remember coming back and feeling like it wasn’t real! My anticipation for the next day and the chance that I’d get to ride Reever again kept me fairly giddy. Reever was my idea of the perfect horse. Brave, sensible and strong, he loved his job and navigated the terrain perfectly. I felt that we made a real connection. Our guides Gemma and Susy were amazing. They seemed to pair everyone with with the right horses. I loved the whole experience and I’m already planning another Globetrotting vacation!’
Renee L
‘The Thirlestane Castle Ride was a dream. Really – pinch me! The Castle itself was a magnificent home and a perfect base with luxurious rooms, plenty of space and incredible architecture. The closest thing to a princess I will ever be! It was so nice to have a glass of wine in the Vault, and the dinners in the magnificent State Dining Room were so special. The riding was wonderful. Whether exploring the estate grounds, galloping up the moors (with a little sloe gin warm up midway), trotting among the sheep, popping over a nice cross country fence, or running along the beach, the horses were big, solid, steady and forward. My buddies, Socrates and Titan, were just lovely – light in the hand, so surefooted and willing, with plenty of go and good brakes! The magic of our love of horses and adventure created friendships among globetrotters from Australia to the UK to the US. Thank you Kate and Laura! I will always treasure Thirlestane and I can’t wait for the next adventure.’
Barbara N
‘This was my first Globetrotting trip and it was fantastic. Everyone at the castle, from Edward and Sarah to the chefs and the housekeeping staff, was very professional, very warm and extremely helpful. The estate was like a fairyland, yet you felt like you were in a person’s home, and I greatly appreciated that. I rode Eva and she was wonderful. The rides were good – or better than good, they were exhilarating! I’m 65 and they stretched my comfort zone just enough to give me great confidence at the end of it all. I am now looking forward to my next Globetrotting adventure.’
Fiona R
‘I really enjoyed the Thirlestane Castle Ride. From coming back from a ride to a fire and a cup of tea welcoming you, to having dinner with the custodians of the castle, everything was perfect. My apartment was very beautiful and comfortable. Each day I loved getting back in the saddle. The staff and the guides were superb, it was such a great experience and the countryside is spectacular.’
What's my riding level?
Not sure what your riding level is? Watch our videos to see all our levels.
Beginner
Reasonably confident riding a horse at a walk, a rising trot, and learning to canter.
Intermediate
Confident and in control riding at all paces outside an arena, but not riding regularly. Comfortable and competent using aids {the language of your leg, seat and hands} to communicate with your horse.
Strong Intermediate
An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly outside of an arena and is fit enough to ride for at least six hours per day. Strong intermediate riders are comfortable and competent in all three gaits; able to post or sit to the trot; have an independent seat while cantering (don’t hold onto the saddle); and can pick up the correct canter lead. They can also navigate more complex terrain, including asking a horse to sidestep and jump over a small obstacle.
Advanced
A frequent rider who is very fit, comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours per day, and has an independent seat and soft hands. Advanced riders are confident on a forward-moving horse at all paces over rough and variable ground on open terrain. They can ride over small jumps and know the techniques used to collect a horse
Not sure? Contact our team to help you figure out your riding ability.
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