Horseback Riding in the Galloway Hills: Top Trails and Centres to Explore

What Makes the Galloway Hills a Horse Rider’s Haven?

The Galloway Hills are wonderfully varied: one day you’re on a forest bridleway beneath tall pines, the next crossing open moorland with sweeping views towards the Solway coast.

Instead of traffic, you’ll find quiet lanes, well-marked riding trails in Dumfries and Galloway, and farm tracks linking lochs and glens. Wildlife is part of the experience too, with red deer, buzzards and herons often spotted along the way.

Among equestrian experiences in Scotland, this area stands out for its balance. It feels wild and adventurous yet remains accessible, with villages, pubs and holiday cottages never far away. That blend of space, beauty and convenience makes the Galloway Hills a true haven for horse lovers.

Where Are the Best Places to Ride in the Galloway Hills?

Galloway Forest Park – Ride Through One of Europe’s Dark Sky Parks 

At more than 300 square miles, Galloway Forest Park is one of the most scenic areas for horseback riding in Scotland. The park’s network of forest tracks and gravel bridleways makes it perfect for long, traffic-free hacks, with popular starting points at Glentrool and Clatteringshaws.

The appeal lies in the variety. One moment you might be trotting through hushed pinewoods, the next you’re skirting lochside paths where red deer graze on the hillsides. On clear days, ospreys and buzzards are often seen overhead, making it a dream for riders who enjoy nature as much as the ride itself. This area is also famous for its Dark Sky Park status: one of the best stargazing spots in Europe. Many visitors combine a day of Galloway Forest horseback riding with an evening under the stars from their cottage base, creating a truly magical pairing of activity and relaxation.For anyone planning to explore forest riding trails in Scotland, the scale and tranquillity of Galloway Forest Park make it hard to beat.

Glenkens and New Galloway – Ride Through Open Hills and River Valleys

If you prefer wide horizons and gentler terrain, the Glenkens area offers some of the most enjoyable rural riding routes in Galloway. Trails wind along the Ken and Dee rivers, where wildflowers and herons line the banks, before opening onto rolling hills with views stretching across the countryside.

The village of St John’s Town of Dalry makes a handy base, with small shops, pubs and easy access to local bridleways. You can head out for a riverside hack in the morning, return for lunch, and then ride into the surrounding hills in the afternoon. This flexibility makes Glenkens horse riding especially appealing for those who want variety without tackling anything too technical. Seasonal changes add to the charm. In spring, bluebells and lambs dot the fields, while autumn paints the hills in gold and russet tones. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed - exactly the kind of slow-paced countryside riding that pairs beautifully with a Scotland cottage holiday.

Raiders Road Forest Drive – A Trail for Confident Riders Seeking Distance

For experienced riders looking for a challenge, the Raiders Road horseback trail is one of the best options in Dumfries and Galloway. This seasonal, 10-mile gravel track runs between Clatteringshaws and Loch Ken, providing a ready-made long-distance route.

The wide, steady surface is ideal for trotting and cantering, and riding the full out-and-back gives around 20 miles in the saddle. Along the way you’ll pass tumbling burns, quiet picnic spots and sweeping forest views. It’s best suited to confident riders, as the terrain can be uneven and the weather shifts quickly. But for those who love covering real distance, it’s a highlight among long riding routes in Galloway. 

Are There Any Local Riding Centres for Lessons and Guided Treks?

Barstobrick Riding Centre – Ideal for Beginners and Family Rides

Just outside Castle Douglas, Barstobrick horse riding is a brilliant introduction to the Galloway Hills for newcomers and families. The centre offers everything from pony rides for children to longer countryside hacks for adults, with friendly instructors who match each rider to a suitable horse.

It’s set in a lovely spot surrounded by farmland, with views over the Galloway Hills. After your ride you can wander around the small loch, follow one of the farm’s nature trails or stop at the café for homemade cake. For families on Scotland cottage holidays, this mix of activities makes it easy to keep everyone happy. Because of its relaxed atmosphere, Barstobrick is especially popular for family horse trekking in Scotland. If you’re staying in one of the nearby cottages in Dumfries and Galloway, it’s a convenient and welcoming choice to fit into your holiday.

Bramble Hill Riding Centre – Scenic Coastal Treks Near Dumfries

If you’d like to mix countryside with sea views, Bramble Hill riding in Dumfries is a fantastic option. Located just outside town, the centre offers short hacks and half-day treks that head into the surrounding farmland, with sweeping panoramas across to Criffel and the Solway coast. On a clear day you can even see across the estuary to Cumbria.

The guides are known for being patient and encouraging, which makes Bramble Hill a top pick for beginners or those returning to the saddle after a break. Horses are carefully matched to riders, so you’ll feel comfortable from the start. For anyone curious about horse riding in South West Scotland but looking for a shorter, more relaxed outing, Bramble Hill strikes the perfect balance.

Lochhill Equestrian Centre – Gentle Countryside Rides Near Kirkcudbright

For a quieter, rural experience, Lochhill Equestrian near Kirkcudbright is a lovely choice. This small, farm-based centre specialises in relaxed countryside hacks for small groups, often just a handful of riders at a time. That makes it perfect for families with younger children, or anyone who prefers a calm, personal introduction to riding.

Trails meander through open farmland and quiet lanes, offering steady horse rides near Kirkcudbright with views across the surrounding countryside. The pace is deliberately unhurried, focusing on enjoyment, safety and confidence building. After your ride, Kirkcudbright itself is well worth exploring. Known as Scotland’s “Artists’ Town”, it’s packed with galleries, independent shops and cosy cafés. Adding a visit here to your itinerary makes a day at Lochhill feel like a true cultural outing as well as an equestrian one.

Can You Bring Your Own Horse on a Holiday in the Galloway Hills?

Yes - and for many riders it’s the perfect way to enjoy the area. If you’d like to bring your own horse to Galloway, you’ll find several farms, smallholdings and rural properties that cater specifically to equestrians. Options range from stabling and field rentals to full livery packages, so your horse can be just as comfortable on holiday as you are.

Some horse-friendly holiday cottages in Dumfries and Galloway even provide private paddocks, secure tack rooms and easy access to local bridleways right from the doorstep. The Galloway Hills offer an amazing mix of forest tracks, open moorland and riverside paths, but some upland trails can be steep or boggy after rain. Checking local conditions with riding centres or landowners ensures you choose routes that match your horse’s fitness and temperament. It’s the best of both worlds, and a brilliant way to create a truly personal riding holiday in Scotland.

How Do You Choose the Right Riding Route for Your Experience Level?

One of the best things about the Galloway Hills is that they cater to every rider, from complete beginners to seasoned equestrians. If you’re just starting out, look for horse trails for beginners such as the flat forest paths around Barstobrick or the gentle farmland hacks at Lochhill Equestrian. These routes are well supervised, with guides on hand to boost your confidence and help you learn at your own pace.

Intermediate riders often enjoy riverside routes in the Glenkens or shorter coastal hacks near Dumfries. These trails offer more variety without being too technical, and the steady terrain gives you a chance to practise trotting and cantering in open spaces.

For experienced equestrians, the riding levels in the Galloway Hills extend to full-day treks in Galloway Forest Park, upland climbs on moorland, or longer challenges like Raiders Road. These routes demand stamina and sure-footed horses but reward you with incredible views and a real sense of adventure.

What Should You Pack or Plan Ahead of Your Ride?

A little preparation makes a big difference to your riding holiday. In the Galloway Hills, the weather can change quickly, so layers and waterproofs are essential no matter the season. 

Sturdy boots and gloves are useful too, while a properly fitted helmet is a must for comfort and safety. Many centres provide helmets, but bringing your own guarantees the best fit. One of the top horse riding tips for Scotland is to carry a small backpack with water, snacks and a basic first-aid kit. If you’re planning a longer hack, add an OS map or GPS device, as mobile reception in the hills can be patchy.

Forestry and Land Scotland also posts updates on local trail conditions, which is worth checking before you set out. For safety on horseback in Galloway, booking lessons or guided treks in advance is wise, especially during school holidays when centres are busiest. Insurance is another sensible step if you’ll be riding regularly during your trip. 

When Is the Best Time of Year for Horse Riding in Galloway?

The best season for riding in Galloway is usually April to October, when the weather is milder, trails are drier and daylight lasts longer. Spring brings woodlands full of bluebells, while summer offers warm evenings for riverside hacks. Autumn is perhaps the most beautiful, with golden hills and crisp air.

Winter riding can be rewarding but the riding weather in South West Scotland is often muddy, windy and cold, making it better suited to experienced equestrians seeking solitude.

Whatever the season, plan rides after dry spells and in cooler hours during summer. With a little timing, the Galloway Hills deliver memorable days on horseback year-round.

Why Horseback Riding in the Galloway Hills Completes Your Cottage Getaway

Horseback riding is one of the most memorable Galloway outdoor activities, offering everything from peaceful forest hacks to challenging moorland treks. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, the variety of trails means there’s always a route to suit.

Staying in a cosy cottage makes it even better. A horse riding cottage holiday lets you enjoy relaxed mornings, scenic rides during the day and evenings by the fire. With welcoming riding centres and horse-friendly accommodation across the region, it’s easy to combine adventure with comfort.

For anyone planning a Scotland cottage holiday, the Galloway Hills are a natural choice: accessible, scenic and truly unforgettable.