For sightseeing with a difference, try trekking at Tower Farm Riding Stables in Liberton which lets you explore a number of routes, including many across Braid Hills golf course. Views from the ride take in many of Edinburgh’s landmarks, and stretch as far as Arthur’s Seat, the Pentlands and the Forth bridges. Tower Farm is happy to take beginners, although if you’ve never ridden before, you’ll need to attend an introductory session.

About 20 minutes outside Edinburgh, the Edinburgh and Lasswade Riding Centre has a range of horses for hacking and trekking trips, whichinclude river and woodland rides along old railway lines, tracks and forest paths. It also runs trips to Dalkeith Country Park for more advanced riders and can cater for children’s parties. If you fancy taking to the beach, Harelaw Equestrian Centre in Longniddry offers beach riding for experienced riders, as well as off-road tracks for beginners. Tower Farm also runs beach rides along Portobello for experienced riders.

Edinburgh & Lasswade Riding Centre
www.lasswadestables.com 0131 663 7676

Harelaw Equestrian Centre
01875 853559

Tower Farm Riding Stables
www.towerfarm.org 0131 664 3375