The inaugural Scone Palace International Horse Trials event will take place in August 2025, in the stunning grounds of Scone Palace and Perth Racecourse.

Launched in partnership with British Eventing, this new CCI4*-L horse trials event promises to deliver four thrilling days of competition, top riders, exhilarating sporting action and all of the fun required to ensure a memorable day out.

Classes will encompass all three disciplines (dressage, cross-country, and show jumping) across various levels, from BE90 to the prestigious CCI4*L. More information can be found below 

 

What's On

 

Following on from the standards set over 47 years at Blair Atholl, our ambitions are firmly set on becoming Scotland’s leading equestrian event.

To that end, we are delighted to have welcomed Alec Lochore of Musketeer Events, Tanya Adamson, Sport Manager, and Executive Assistant, Maddie Pullan, to join our very capable events team.

Scone palace Park Grounds

Why Perthshire, and why Scone Palace?

The Perthshire region boasts a rich history of equestrian events, dating back to the first One-Day Event held in Britain at Halleyburton in Coupar Angus, organised by the Central Scotland Committee. This pioneering event, held over a single day, laid the groundwork for modern-day eventing.

The Central Scotland Committee continued to host One-Day Events in Perthshire until 2006, with Scone Palace serving as the venue from 1990 to 2006.

Renowned as crowning place of Scottish Kings, Scone Palace stands as a testament to the nation's rich past. It is one of Scotland’s most iconic tourist attractions, and home to major events such as The Scottish Game Fair, Rewind, Potfest Scotland, and Scone Palace Garden Fair – so we are well equipped when it comes to the logistics of hosting large scale events.

In addition to this, in 2023, Scone Palace Estates entered a reverse takeover of Perth Racecourse, moving from landlord to owner operator. The result is a purpose-built equestrian infrastructure and a deep understanding of horse and rider welfare within the equestrian events space. 

This vast skills and experience of these collective teams, coupled with a strong sense of community and responsibility, provided a uniquely compelling case for Scone Palace to pick up Blair’s reins, and this exciting new chapter promises to further enhance its standing as a significant cultural and sporting destination.

Our Event Experience

The Scone Palace International Horse Trial offers a unique equestrian experience, blending elite international competition with a rich tapestry of traditional events, featuring world-class riders from across Scotland, the UK, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Australia and wider Europe. Set against the majestic backdrop of Scone Palace and Perth Racecourse, the horse trials feature a comprehensive schedule that caters to all levels of equestrian enthusiasts.

From thrilling international eventing to impressive Clydesdale and Highland Pony Showing and Working Hunters, there is something to delight every horse lover. The event also features British Showjumping classes ranging from 90cm to 130cm, Pony Club mounted games, and the Scottish Grassroots Championships, that nurtures rising stars at BE100 and BE90 levels. For those passionate about heritage, the Native Breed Showing spotlights Highlands, cobs, Clydesdales, and retrained racehorses, proudly celebrating Scotland’s rich equine legacy.

More than just a competition, the Scone Palace International Horse Trials is a vibrant celebration of equestrian culture. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a family looking for a memorable day out, the event offers something for everyone.

Horses jumping in arena with spectators
adobe stock for Equestrian welfare

Equestrian Welfare

At Scone Palace Horse Trials, we share a passion for horses, and their welfare is top priority.

We are dedicated to minimising risks and responding swiftly to any incidents that may occur at the event. Working with top industry leaders and course-designers plus equine vets, we take every possible precaution to ensure the safety and well-being of all horses.

On-site, a team of experienced farriers and vets will be available throughout the duration of the Scone Palace International Horse Trials.

During all phases of competition, there will be cooling and hydration methods available. During the cross-country there will be specific cooling areas with cold water, ice and misting. All vets and rest areas will have ample water troughs and buckets, as well as trained grooms and volunteers to rapidly cool the horse’s core temperature.

As riders and owners enjoy the event, they can take comfort in knowing that expert care and support is always on hand to protect and aid their horses.