An event steeped in prestige, tradition and excitement, the world-renowned Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials return to Highland Perthshire this summer, and here at Dunalastair Hotel Suites, we’re looking forward to welcoming guests for one of the biggest events in the equestrian calendar.
Taking place less than 20 miles from our five-star hotel near Pitlochry.
The annual event regularly proves to be equally as popular among those looking for a fun-filled family day out as it is among those serious about seeing world-class horses and riders compete, making it one of the Highlands’ most unmissable events of the summer season.
One of the biggest events of the summer returns to Highland Perthshire this August. Dunalastair Hotel Suites are here to help you enjoy this prestigious occasion in true five-star style.
Whether you’re planning to stay with us this August specifically to attend the International Horse Trials,
Or you’re simply curious about making a trip to Blair Castle a part of your summer getaway to Scotland, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event and how the award-winning Dunalastair Hotel Suites can help you to truly make the most of the occasion.
When do the Blair Castle International Horse Trials Take Place?
This year, the Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials take place from Thursday, August 22nd to Sunday, August 25th 2019 at Blair Castle in Blair Atholl, Pitlochry. Gates open at 8 AM on Saturday and at 8.30 AM Thursday, Friday and Sunday.
Why is the event so Popular?
Every year, record crowds of up to 45,000 people descend on Highland Perthshire to watch over 1,800 horses compete in events such as the cross country, show jumping, mounted games and more.
Such is the magnitude of the four-day event that spectators will have the opportunity to watch world-class equestrian athletes compete alongside Olympic medal winners, while some of the best amateur riders from around the world also pit their skills against one another.
This high calibre competition makes the Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials one of the most talked-about events of its type and has fans flocking from across Scotland, the UK and beyond to be part of it.
Even if you’re not as enamoured with our equine friends as other visitors, you can rest assured that there’s much more to this four-day extravaganza than just horses:
There’s much more to the Blair Castle International Horse Trials than the world-class equestrian competition. A popular country fair, live entertainment and the famous pop-up shopping village are all part of the festivities.
1. Fun for the Whole Family at Bruadar Country Fair
A highlight of the International Horse Trials for many a guest here at Dunalastair Hotel Suites, the Bruadar Country Fair offers plenty of fun and games for the whole family, with stalls, prizes to be won and unique attractions.
From the vintage and classic tractor cavalcade to the thrills and spills of the Horsepower Cossack stunt show via pig racing, falconry displays, children’s entertainment and more, the fair does offer something for everyone.
That’s before we even mention the family-friendly circus, traditional Scottish music, country dancing and activities galore.
Meanwhile, you’ll find a wealth of homemade gifts, foods and drinks to take back home either as gifts or as a souvenir of your summer getaway in Scotland.
Speaking of gifts and souvenirs…
2. Luxury Shopping Available All Weekend
As it does every year, the historic grounds of Blair Castle will play host to a one-of-a-kind pop-up shopping village. Here, you’ll find over 200 boutique retailers serving up all manner of gifts and goodies to suit all tastes.
From traditional Scottish attire to the most stylish of country clothing, gourmet delicacies, arts, crafts, and housewares, you’ll find it all and more at the Blair Castle shopping village.
3. First Class Hospitality Available Throughout the Course
Right throughout the venue, spectators can enjoy a wide variety of food and drink from both local suppliers and well-known brands.
For an extra touch of luxury, style and sophistication, however, visitors may wish to purchase one of the events’ popular first-class hospitality packages.
Ideal for corporate getaways, honeymoons or other special occasions, corporate hospitality packages offer unrivalled levels of VIP service and style.
One option is to book the fully catered corporate hospitality package, suitable for between eight and ten guests.
These packages include:
- Car parking
- Event admission
- Morning coffee with pastries
- Lunch with wine
- Access to a private garden viewing area, perfect for watching the dressage and show jumping.
Alternatively, parties of between 32 and 96 guests may prefer to book a ringside corporate box package. This comes with all of the above plus an assigned hospitality host and access to a private pay bar.
Finally, Private hospitality chalets/mini marquees can be booked for Cross Country days.
Prices for all of these hospitality packages are available on request by calling Blair Castle on +44 (0) 1796 481543.
How much are Tickets to the Blair Castle International Horse Trials?
Each year, ticket prices vary depending on the type of ticket and the day itself.
Membership tickets include forward car parking, general admission and access to a Member’s Ringside Marquee, complete with exclusive bar and restaurant facilities. However, you can also purchase general admission tickets and pay for parking and other facilities separately.
Membership tickets
A single day’s membership ticket for Thursday or Friday will cost you £24, while a weekend membership will set you back £70. For a full season membership, expect to pay £99.
General Admission
General Admission tickets are charged at the following prices:
- Season Admission – £57 in advance. Season passes cannot be purchased on the gate.
- Weekend Admission – £36 in advance. Weekend passes cannot be purchased on the gate
- Thursday Admission – £12 in advance or £15 on the gate
- Friday Admission – £12 in advance £15 on the gate
- Saturday Admission – £23 in advance or £25 on the gate
- Sunday Admission – £18 in advance or £21 on the gate
Experience This World class Event in Five-Star Luxury with Dunalastair Hotel Suites.
Every year, the team at our award-winning hotel near Pitlochry go the extra mile to ensure that all of our guests enjoy a truly unforgettable experience at the Blair Castle International Horse Trials.
Based just a short, 30-minute drive from Blair Castle itself, we partner with several local travel operators to help you get to and from the event without the hassle of driving.
If you do prefer to take your car, however, you’ll be pleased to know that on-site parking at Blair castle is available for a small surcharge of £4 per day or £8 for the whole weekend.
The team here at Dunalastair Hotel Suites are on hand throughout the whole weekend to help you truly make the most of your time in Highland Perthshire. We can help with ticket booking, providing information about local services and attractions, and even help with transport arrangements to and from the event.
Dunalastair Hotel Suites Concierge Service
In the weeks leading up to the event, and throughout the event itself, our dedicated guest ambassadors will be on hand to provide concierge assistance with ticket booking, arranging transportation and answering all of your questions about how to make the most of the weekend itself.
Blair Horse Trials Dos and Don’ts
1. Do join the party
The weekend is famous for its nightly parties including the popular Thursday night ceilidh and a live band on a Friday night, both of which are free to attend.
2. Do book your tickets in advance
Though tickets are available on the gate, booking in advance means you avoid the queues and get to go straight to the fun
3. Do arrive early to secure the best spot
With so many people attending each year, be sure to get there early to get a good viewing spot
4. Don’t forget to visit the shopping village
Even if you’re not so into the horse events, the Blair Castle shopping village is worth the price of admission alone.
5. Don’t leave your dog behind
Blair Castle International Horse Trials are a dog-friendly event, so there’s no reason to leave your four-legged friend at home
6. Don’t miss out on exclusive special offers from Dunalastair Hotel Suites.
Right throughout the summer season, the five-star Dunalastair Hotel Suites in Highland Perthshire will be running several special selected discount offers so that you and your loved ones can enjoy five-star luxury for less.
With our family package, for example, two adults and two children can enjoy a two night stay with complimentary continental breakfast each morning for just £499.
Visit our special offers page for all of our latest deals, or call us now on +44 (0)1882 580444 to book your stay in time for the 2019 Land Rover Blair Castle International Horse Trials.