It’s one of the most prestigious events in the equestrian calendar, and it’s back for another year. Yes, dear readers, the Blair International Horse Trials and County fair return this August, and here at the Dunalastair Hotel Suites in Perthshire, we could not be more excited.
We are we so enthralled with the annual spectacular? Simple: There’s nothing else in Scotland – or anywhere else for that matter- quite like the Blair Horse Trials.
Held on the grounds of the historic Blair Castle in in Blair Atholl, the four-day event is an absolute must for anyone visiting Highland Perthshire this summer, but if you’re visiting for the first time this year and don’t know what to expect, don’t worry:
Here, the team at our luxury hotel near Blair Atholl have put together this guide to the Blair Horse Trials, complete with everything you need to know about Scotland’s premier equestrian event.
What Happens at the Blair Horse Trials?
Each and every year, the world’s most celebrated riders and Olympic Champions join forces with a host of amateur riders from across the world for four days of elite international competition in events including dressage, showjumping, and cross country.
When is This Year’s Event?
Blair Horse Trials 2017 dates were announced recently. The event starts on Wednesday, August 23rd, with the First horse inspection taking place at 3.30PM in the Main Arena.
The event then runs every day until Sunday, August 27th.
For a full timetable of events, see: https://www.blairhorsetrials.co.uk/home/timetable/
Is the Bruadar Country Fair Returning This Year?
It certainly will. The Bruadar Country Fair, a major part of the festivities, returns on the Saturday and Sunday of Blair Horse Trials week.
Though the equestrian events themselves are truly magnificent, those of you staying at our Perthshire hotel with children will find a whole host of activities to keep them entertained here.
Along with a host of demonstrations, you and your family can enjoy traditional Scottish music and dancing, a fun-filled circus, games, live entertainment and more.
How Much are Tickets?
The cost of tickets for this year’s event varies depending on the day itself.
Adult admission ranges from £12 (Thursday and Friday) to £20 (Saturday only), with full weekend admission for £30 and a week-long ticket costing £50.
Children under 12 years of age go free of charge.
What Else is Taking Place?
Those of you looking to take away the perfect souvenir from your holiday in Scotland will do well to check out the Blair Horse Trials shopping village, where you’ll find over 200 of Scotland’s finest traders selling everything from unique crafts to country clothing, bespoke jewellery, gifts, goodies, and more.
From there, be sure to make your way to the food hall, where a range of fresh, organic, and artisan food and drink awaits. From delicious hand-crafted chocolates to traditional Scottish delicacies and a host of gourmet grub that serves as both the perfect snack to enjoy whilst watching the horse trials and the perfect gift to take back home.
How to Get There:
A short 30-minute drive from our luxury hotel near Blair Atholl, Blair castle itself is easily accessible via the A9 and is well signposted once you reach Blair Atholl itself.
For those of you with Sat Nav, organisers recommend using the postcode PH18 5TL, but relying on event signage rather than your satellite navigation instructions.
Experience the pageantry, the tradition, and the entertainment of the Blair Horse Trials 2017 with the Dunalastair Hotel Suite, Perthshire.
For a limited time only, book any two night, mid-week stay including luxury hotel suite, dinner, and breakfast, for only £444 as part of our Spring into Summer special.
To take advantage of this exclusive discount, call our reservations team now on 01882 580444 or email bookings@dunalastairhotel.com.