Scone Palace International Horse Trials returns from 27–30 August, bringing four days of elite competition, family entertainment and countryside hospitality, to the historic grounds of Scone Palace for its second year.
At the heart of the event is international eventing, one of the most demanding disciplines in equestrian sport. Combining dressage, cross-country and showjumping, riders and horses must demonstrate athleticism, precision and partnership across several days of competition. The event hosts classes from pony level through to prestigious CCI4* competition, attracting competitors from across the UK and Europe.
Beyond the headline international classes, visitors can enjoy a packed programme featuring British Showjumping, Arena Eventing, Pony Club Games, Native Breed Showing, Retraining of Racehorses competitions and the Scottish Grassroots Championships.
William Stormont, Event Owner and patron commented, “The calibre of competition at Scone is reflected in the world-class riders it attracts. At the inaugural event, Olympic gold medallist and three-time CCI5* winner Laura Collett made history with London 52 by becoming the first winner of the CCI4*-S class.
“My advice is to bring a picnic blanket, grab a glass of fizz, and settle in to watch horses and riders tackle fences with real skill and courage.”
More than just horses
You don't need to know your Clydesdales from your Connemaras to have a brilliant day out at Scone. There's plenty more to see and do.
For anyone with a soft spot for country life and style, start with the Shopping Village and over 170 quality retailers offering everything from country clothing to doggie goods and homewares. Choose well and you could be crowned Best Dressed lady on Friday 27th August.
When you’re feeling hungry, head for the Social Hubs, brimming over with street food trucks, coffee vans and bars, this is where you can pull up a bench and settle in to watch some live screen arena action. Perfect for those who can never decide between lunch and the sport.
Families are especially well catered for. Under-12s go free, and 12–16 year-olds get in from £12. The Horse Scotland Village — run in partnership with Horse Scotland — gives kids a whole event-within-an-event: a horse simulator, therapy ponies, a Pony Club Chat, archery, indoor curling, and a dog show judged across the weekend for anyone whose four-legged friend fancies the limelight.
And once the competition wraps for the day, the fun doesn't stop. Evening entertainment keeps the atmosphere going with live music and well-stocked bars long after the last horse has left the arena.
Camping
For those who want to soak up every minute of the weekend, onsite camping is the way to go. Pitches start from £160 for six people and one car, with excusive food and drink provision, hot showers, and shuttle buses running between the campsite and the main arena throughout the four-day event.
Getting Here
You're never all that far from a long weekend of top-level sport, shopping and serious countryside indulgence, wherever you're starting from in Scotland. With its prime location in the heart of the country, Perth enjoys easy road and rail links from all major cities and many towns.
Shuttle buses will run from Perth City Centre to Scone Palace at regular intervals.
Whether you're there for elite sport, a new tweed jacket, or a great family day out, Scone Palace International Horse Trials has it covered. General admission starts from £25, with tickets and the full programme at sconehorsetrials.com.
