Horseriding
In the hills
Some of the best riding country in the UK but the area is dominated
by large sporting and agricultural estates who to varying degrees
wish to control access for horse riders. Rights of way are presently
under consideration in land reform legislation before the Scottish
Parliament. Until these are settled in law those wanting to ride independently
should always seek local advice and be prepared to negotiate with
estate offices or land agents most of whom will give consent provided
no disruption is caused to estate activities. This area will become
part of the Cairngorms National Park by early 2003. The implications,
if any, for horse riding are not yet known.
In Woodland
Forestry Commission land also offers good riding away from roads.
Most is permit free but you need to check with the local District
Office. Accompanied
There are four riding establishments which take parties out, and
all cater for beginners as well as more experienced riders. Some
have age and weight limits. None would allow a rider to go out alone.
For further details see below. In addition, Highland Horseback offer's
Britain's longest trail ride, from the Cairngorms to the West coast. Riding Establishments
Balmenach Pony Trekking
Pass of Ballater, Ballater, Aberdeenshire
Tel: 013397 55660
Glen Tanar Equestrian Centre (BHS approved)
Glen Tanar, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, AB34 5EU
Tel: 013398 86448/87042 Fax: 013398 87391
Tomintoul Riding Centre (BHS approved)
St Bridgets Farm, Tomintoul, Ballindalloch, Banffshire, AB37 9HS
Tel: 01807 580210 Highland Horseback
Easter Bodylair, Glass, Huntly, Aberdeenshire, AB54 4XR
Tel/Fax: 01466 700304
Email: sales@highlandhorseback.co.uk
Website: www.highlandhorseback.co.uk Endurance riding for horse owners
The Grampian branch of the Scottish Endurance Riding Club (SERC)
organises cross-country rides including short pleasure rides of
about 10 miles, open to non-members. Temporary membership can be
arranged and an entry fee is charged. Contacts
British Horse Society (BHS) Grampian Region
Email: grampian@bhsscotland.org.uk
Website: www.bhs.org.uk BHS access representatives:
Molly Atkinson
Beech Cottage, Drumoak,
Banchory, Aberdeenshire, AB31 3AL
Tel: 01330 811363 Roger Searle
Birnam Cottage, Golf Road
Ballater, Aberdeenshire, AB35 SRU
Tel: 013397 55520 Anne Fraser
BHS Access Officer (Scotland)
Overwells, Jedburgh,
Roxburghshire, TD8 6LT
Tel: 01835 863020 Fax: 01835 864334
Email: abfraser@btinternet.com SERC Branch Secretary:
Katie Keith
15 Nellfield Place,
Aberdeen, AB10 6DE Forestry Commission
Kincardine District Office
Tel: 01330 844537 Maps and Guides
There are no specific guides for horse riding in the area, but for
general maps and guides which have much useful information about
the area click here.
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