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You may wish to download our terms and conditions for reading or printing offline.
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The Adventure
Whether you are here for a 1-hour lesson or a full week riding holiday, we want you to gain the most out of this experience. It is not just about sitting on a horse; it is about connecting with the horse and the environment you are in. Whilst you are part of a group, this is YOUR adventure. Our team are on hand to tell you about your surroundings and offer individual guidance and training as required. We encourage you to get involved with caring for your horse during your adventure. This is an important part of the experience and a great way to bond with your horse. We will support you to do this at all times.
Your safety and enjoyment are our number one priority. To get the most out of your adventure, input and preparation are also required from you. In particular: -
Your safety and enjoyment are our number one priority. To get the most out of your adventure, input and preparation are also required from you. In particular: -
- Please ensure you are fit and able to participate safely in the activity you have signed up for.
- Please dress for the weather and ensure you have appropriate layers, waterproof clothing and sun protection. Full length trousers are mandatory.
- You will only be allowed to ride if wearing appropriate footwear (i.e. with solid sole and small heel) which we are not able to provide. Flat soles, trainers or open toed footwear are not permitted.
- If you wish to wear your own riding helmet it must be to a current safety standard (see PDF for details), this will be checked before you ride. Alternatively, we have a large selection of helmets available to you.
What We Provide
- Well-trained and experienced horses
- Two experienced coaches/qualified trail leaders to train/guide you
- Designed and tested routes to provide safe but exhilarating riding opportunities
- First aid and other assistance as required
- All necessary public liability and business insurances
- Riding helmets (up to current (2016) safety standards)
- Hi-vis tabards (i.e. necessary for riding on public roads)
- A saddle bag for you to carry a few small personal items (i.e. camera, waterproofs)
- Light refreshment or picnic lunches (as applicable) ‘on the hoof’
On our riding holidays we also provide:
- Overnight accommodation – based on two people sharing (see details below)
- Breakfast and evening meals at our farm guest house or local restaurants
- All local transport requirements during the event
- For Glen Kerran holidays specifically, we provide transfers between Campbeltown airport/bus station and the farm at agreed times.
- For Knoydart holidays specifically, we provide transfers between Inverie pier (Knoydart) and your accommodation.
In addition, we can provide at cost:
- Accommodation and meals for non-riding members of your group – subject to availability.
- Other ‘non-riding’ activities for you to enjoy on the rest day, or to extend your Scottish wilderness experience at our locations. Options may include botany, foraging and feasting day, castle & culture tours, gin making, island experience, mountain biking, boat/fishing trips, bush craft skills and wildlife tours, even an opportunity to catch your own lobster. Again, prices provided on enquiry.
On our horseback archery adventures we also provide:
- Horseback archery trained horses
- British Horseback Archery Association (BHAA) qualified Club Coaches
- All archery equipment
- Appropriate personal protective equipment
Accommodation
We use authentic and comfortable accommodation with options for good quality, locally sourced and ethical food. For our Glen Kerran holidays, much of this is provided from our own farm and in collaboration with local producers. For our Knoydart holidays we work closely with the Knoydart community to bring you a complete and seamless offering supplied by a host of local entrepreneurs.
Prices are based on two people sharing a room. Single travellers will incur a single person supplement (£25pppn) in the event that either; you are not willing to share or; there is not another single traveller on the trip. Please note single rooms are not an option on Knoydart.
Prices are based on two people sharing a room. Single travellers will incur a single person supplement (£25pppn) in the event that either; you are not willing to share or; there is not another single traveller on the trip. Please note single rooms are not an option on Knoydart.
Dietary requirements
We endeavour to cater for any allergies and other dietary requirements and we ask that you confirm your needs on our Booking Form at the time of booking. As we operate in rural and remote locations, if you have any last-minute changes to this, we need at least 48 hours’ notice to try to offer an adequate alternative.
Group size
Our maximum group size is deliberately small, just six riders, which makes our rides personable and low impact on the environment. We can cater for larger groups by running subsequent rides over the course of a day/weekend to provide a bespoke itinerary for clubs or social gatherings (i.e. University Clubs, Corporate Event or Birthday/Hen Party) so please get in touch to discuss your requirements.
Distance
The distance travelled each day varies greatly depending on the specific ride but will be in the region of 5-15km per day. Again, this is deliberately quite small as we pride ourselves in quality of riding and experience above sheer quantity of miles. Whether you are on an action-packed obstacle filled ride or a point-to-point journey, you will enjoy lots of time in the saddle. A full day is 5-6 hours and a half day is about 2½-3 hours depending on speed of travel and ground conditions on the day
Variation
While all reasonable care has been taken to give a detailed and accurate account of your adventure, routes may be subject to change if weather, ground conditions, rider ability or incidents dictate. Your precise accommodation depends on availability and will be confirmed after receipt of your deposit.
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Please note all riders must wear a riding helmet. If you want to use your own helmet it must be compliant with the BHS Approved Centre – Hat Guidelines 2016 (see PDF for details.)
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Age
The following age restrictions apply.
- Riders must be 18 years old or over to participate in riding holidays unaccompanied.
- Riders 12-18 years old are welcome on riding holidays accompanied by a parent/guardian.
- Riders 8-12 years old are not permitted on riding holidays (unless by special agreement) but are able to join individual half day/full day treks if accompanied by a parent/guardian.
- Riders 6 - 17 years old can participate in the following activities unaccompanied by a parent/guardian: 1-hour treks, riding lesson and Saddle Club.
- Riders 11 years or older can join The Sunday Squad unaccompanied by a parent/guardian.
Weight
Our horses are fit and in good health, but they work hard and we want to ensure their comfort. In line with Government legislation and our own policy, the following weight restrictions apply.
- We do not accept riders over 15 stone (210lbs or 95 kg)
- For full day rides/holidays the weight limit is reduced to 14 stone (196 lbs or 89 kg) and there may be further restrictions in a group (i.e. not all horses carry maximum weight limit).
- A very experienced or tall rider will sit ‘lighter’ so this is not an exact limit. Please contact us to discuss your individual situation.
Riding Ability
We interpret riding ability on the following general basis:
Beginner: means someone who has never ridden before or only a couple of times.
Novice: Riding experience at walk and trot but not confident at canter
Intermediate: Confident at walk, trot and canter on a forward horse, on open ground.
Advanced: Confident at all paces, on a forward horse, advanced rides may include long and/or fast canters and small jumps.
Beginner: means someone who has never ridden before or only a couple of times.
Novice: Riding experience at walk and trot but not confident at canter
Intermediate: Confident at walk, trot and canter on a forward horse, on open ground.
Advanced: Confident at all paces, on a forward horse, advanced rides may include long and/or fast canters and small jumps.
Riding Holidays
Our riding holidays are primarily designed for competent intermediate and advanced riders as there can be some challenging terrain and there will be opportunities to canter. Novice riders are permitted on short breaks although competence at rising trot is essential. A reasonable level of fitness is required for all holidays. Although the rides are not ‘endurance level’ they are physically demanding and designed to be an interesting and stimulating adventure for you and the horse. We will run specific events for building rider confidence and taster sessions for beginners. We can cater for beginners or novice riders by arrangement, as bespoke trips.
Our riding holidays are primarily designed for competent intermediate and advanced riders as there can be some challenging terrain and there will be opportunities to canter. Novice riders are permitted on short breaks although competence at rising trot is essential. A reasonable level of fitness is required for all holidays. Although the rides are not ‘endurance level’ they are physically demanding and designed to be an interesting and stimulating adventure for you and the horse. We will run specific events for building rider confidence and taster sessions for beginners. We can cater for beginners or novice riders by arrangement, as bespoke trips.
Treks, Lessons and Clubs
Our lessons, clubs and training opportunities are available for all abilities. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and to find a group and activity that suits your ability.
Our lessons, clubs and training opportunities are available for all abilities. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and to find a group and activity that suits your ability.
Health
You must tell us about any medical condition or disability that may affect your riding, or your health during the ride. This includes any condition or medication that would be relevant if you are hospitalised. If unsure, please check with your doctor first. We will make every effort to accommodate special requirements so long as we can do this without affecting normal health and safety considerations or other riders' enjoyment of the experience.
Insurance
Travellers should ensure that they have adequate insurance that covers them for the riding activities that they will carry out during their holiday, including injury, death, repatriation, trip cancellation and/or curtailment. Please see our cancellation policy for details of our terms and obligations.
Dogs
Sorry, your dogs (or other pets) are not allowed on Wilder Ways holidays. Our dogs live with us and may be on location with us, so please let us know if you have any dog allergies or issues and we will keep them separate from you.
Making a booking
Riding Holidays, Treks, Archery Days & Group Bookings
All riders need to:
All riders need to:
- Complete a booking form for every booking.
- Read, accept & sign the Horse Riders’ Code of Conduct.
- Confirm you will take out appropriate insurance or will cover this liability personally.
- Pay a 40% non-refundable deposit to secure the booking.
- Pay the balance 4 weeks before the ride begins.
- Arrive with at least the minimum requirements from the kit list.
- Complete a booking form every year.
- Read, accept & sign the Horse Riders’ Code of Conduct.
- Pay the full balance to secure your advance booking (i.e. if purchasing a book of lessons).
- Pay for the session on the day of the ride.
- Arrive with at least the minimum requirements from the kit list.
Payment options
For all booking you will be issued with an invoice via our XERO bookkeeping service. This will give you two payment options to pay your deposit and balance.
- By Stripe via the Pay Now button on the invoice, or
- By direct Bank Transfer by Wilder Ways, Account number 13766660, Sort Code 80-22-60, using your name as reference.
Cancellation Policy
The purchase of Gift Vouchers or Books of Lessons (payable in full at the time of booking) are non-refundable.
We require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice for any lesson cancellations. If you provide less notice you will be liable to pay full cost of your lesson.
The 40% deposit due on riding holidays and treks is non-refundable.
If you have paid your balance it will only be refunded if you cancel more than 4 weeks before your trip If you cancel within 4 weeks, no refund will be provided. We will however provide you with a voucher for you to use on an alternative trip with us at any time within the next 12 months (subject to availability). This voucher will be limited to 80% of the total paid to cover costs incurred as a result of your cancellation.
In the unlikely event that Wilder Ways cancel a booking, you will be notified at least four weeks before the start.
In the event of a cancellation Wilder Ways will provide either of the following, whichever is preferred by the customer:
We require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice for any lesson cancellations. If you provide less notice you will be liable to pay full cost of your lesson.
The 40% deposit due on riding holidays and treks is non-refundable.
If you have paid your balance it will only be refunded if you cancel more than 4 weeks before your trip If you cancel within 4 weeks, no refund will be provided. We will however provide you with a voucher for you to use on an alternative trip with us at any time within the next 12 months (subject to availability). This voucher will be limited to 80% of the total paid to cover costs incurred as a result of your cancellation.
In the unlikely event that Wilder Ways cancel a booking, you will be notified at least four weeks before the start.
In the event of a cancellation Wilder Ways will provide either of the following, whichever is preferred by the customer:
- a complete refund for the holiday, ride or lesson/
- a voucher for another holiday, ride or lesson with Wilder Ways of the same value or/
COVID-19 Cancellation Policy
In response to the COVID-19 global pandemic we have added to our cancellation terms as follows. Please note that these terms only apply where Wilder Ways has cancelled your holiday as a direct result of restrictions imposed on Wilder Ways by the Government in response to COVID-19. This clause takes effect on March 20th 2020 and persist as long as applicable.
2020 Bookings
New Bookings
In addition, for any new bookings made after March 20th 2020 and before such time as lockdowns and travel restrictions are lifted.
There is no change to our cancellation policy for lessons.
2020 Bookings
- 40% deposits remain non-refundable.
- Balance payments will be refunded.
- A voucher worth 100% of the payments made will be issued – valid for 12 months.
New Bookings
In addition, for any new bookings made after March 20th 2020 and before such time as lockdowns and travel restrictions are lifted.
- 40% deposits are fully refundable if bookings are cancelled by Wilder Ways as a result of COVID-19.
There is no change to our cancellation policy for lessons.
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The following kit is strongly recommended for your comfort and enjoyment of the ride. The weather in Scotland can be very changeable, even in the summer.
As a minimum, appropriate footwear is mandatory. You will not be allowed to ride in sandals, trainers or any footwear with ridged soles that could get trapped in the stirrups. |
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You may wear your own riding helmet (if you have one) but only if it complies with the latest standards. See here for full details.
½ or full day ride |
Suitable footwear for riding i.e. hard, smooth sole and slight heel |
Waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers |
Gloves |
Comfortable clothes for riding i.e. jodhpurs - jeans are not recommended |
Any medication you are taking |
Slimline camera (or phone) |
Sunscreen and sunglasses (on string) |
Insect repellent |
Waterproof bag for phone or camera |
Bum bag to carry personal items |
Riding Holiday (short break or week) please also bring |
Some cash money in pounds sterling |
Warm clothes and plenty of spare dry ones suitable for riding |
Spare footwear suitable for riding |
A shade hat and woolly hat |
Indoor shoes for the evenings |
Towel and wash bag |
Swimwear |
Baggage Allowance
Given that we will be ‘mobile’ and have a lot of equipment between us all, we need to limit baggage to ensure we can transport and handle it effectively. As such, please ensure you pack such that you limit your luggage to a single rucksack or small suitcase
Child Protection Policy
Wilder Ways is committed to their child protection policy that acknowledges their duty of care to safeguard the welfare of children and young people. It will ensure that the practice of such safeguards reflects statutory responsibilities, Government guidance, best practice and the requirements of the Charities Commission.
The policy applies to all adults working in positions of responsibility within the company including partners, paid staff and volunteers.
Wilder Ways recognises that the welfare of children and young people are paramount in all circumstances. Wilder Ways aims to ensure that children and young people have a positive and enjoyable experience in a safe environment and are protected from abuse whilst participating in Wilder Ways' activities. Wilder Ways acknowledge that particular children and young people of any ability, gender and ethnicity may be particularly vulnerable to abuse and aims to take appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.
Wilder Ways will:
The policy applies to all adults working in positions of responsibility within the company including partners, paid staff and volunteers.
Wilder Ways recognises that the welfare of children and young people are paramount in all circumstances. Wilder Ways aims to ensure that children and young people have a positive and enjoyable experience in a safe environment and are protected from abuse whilst participating in Wilder Ways' activities. Wilder Ways acknowledge that particular children and young people of any ability, gender and ethnicity may be particularly vulnerable to abuse and aims to take appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.
Wilder Ways will:
- Prioritise the safety and welfare of children and young people.
- Ensure that all partners, staff and volunteers are clear about their responsibilities with respect to the safeguarding of children and young people.
- Ensure all partners and staff complete a 'Child Protection for Equestrians Course'. This is a comprehensive course specifically designed for those in regular contact with children through their work in the equestrian sector. It covers abuse and identifying concerns, legislation and guidance, child protection policies and procedures, working with other agencies, handling allegations and complaints and how and when to make referrals. The course is in line with government guidance and is written in association with the British Equestrian Federation.
- Prevent the involvement of unsuitable individuals in any activity involving young people by the use of Disclosure and the application of best practice in the recruitment of staff and volunteers.
- Keep safe any personal information or records of any safeguarding concerns.
- Immediately address any failure to comply with the terms of this policy.
- Review this policy annually and/or in the light of any changes to relevant legislation or government guidance.
Quality
Wilder Ways will always work in such a way as to ensure the following:
Wilder Ways are wholly committed to this Quality Statement and shall conduct regular reviews to ensure its continuing relevance, suitability and effectiveness.
- To ensure high standards of horse health and welfare (and happiness).
- To implement and maintain a Quality System that meets, or exceeds, current legislation.
- To respond to client needs as in a partnership.
- To develop, resource and continually improve our capacity and expertise within our scope of operations.
- To adhere to our environmental, inclusion and data protection policies.
- To ensure sustained profitability.
Wilder Ways are wholly committed to this Quality Statement and shall conduct regular reviews to ensure its continuing relevance, suitability and effectiveness.
Environment
Wilder Ways will always work in such a way as to ensure the following:
- Positive impact on biodiversity by considering the interest of protected species and habitats and minimising our impact on natural habitats and species.
- Minimal impact on the trails and the landscapes we ride in - take only memories (and photos), leave only a few hoof-prints.
- Waste is minimised by low paper use in the office, use of recycled or re-used products including all paper, recycling of all waste where possible.
- Energy efficiency is maximised by high levels of insulation in the office, use of low energy appliances, energy efficiency measures.
- Low carbon emissions are promoted by regular vehicle maintenance, use of public transport and sharing transport wherever possible.
- Use of materials with the minimum environmental impact, e.g. cleaning products, equipment.
Bio-security
The following policy note is to ensure that biosecurity is taken into consideration at all levels of Wilder Ways operations. These guidelines are in place to safeguard our staff, clients, animals, third parties and the environment from bio-hazards, i.e. the transmission of harmful organisms including pests and invasive plants.
Biosecurity is important when entering any land, or other premises where there is a risk of spreading organisms, including forestry and agricultural land, the natural environment and buildings.
Biosecurity is important when entering any land, or other premises where there is a risk of spreading organisms, including forestry and agricultural land, the natural environment and buildings.
- Ensure footwear is clean before entering a new site/premises.
- Clean footwear between sites. Wash off mud, if necessary, using an appropriate disinfectant.
- Wash hands between sites.
- Keep all tools and tack clean.
- Brush mud and dirt off horses prior to riding out and pick out feet.
- Ensure that all vehicles are cleaned regularly, especially removing mud from tyres and wheel arches.
- Keep vehicular access to new sites to a minimum and, wherever possible, keep to established hard tracks.
- Avoid silt or any disinfectants used from entering watercourses.
- For sites known to be infested by harmful pests or pathogens special provisions may be required to comply with the National Waste Management Plan for Scotland Regulations (2007) Seek advice from SEPA.
- Remove and deal appropriately with all rubbish including organic waste such as old hay and feed, hoof trimmings and bandages.
- Inform all staff and clients about the importance of biosecurity and demonstrate the techniques used to minimise risk. Provide appropriate equipment.
Inclusion
Wilder Ways work to encourage inclusion throughout the performance of any tasks and will not tolerate discrimination, e.g. on the grounds of race, sex, age or disability.
Data Protection
Wilder Ways shall handle data in accordance with the EU GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and UK DPA (Data Protection Act) 2018. Schedule 1 to the DPA lists the data protection principles in the following terms:
Personal data is only held on a single mainframe computer and not transferred onto mobile devices. Personal data may be used for the promotion of Wilder Ways products with permission by the owner. If such permission is not given, personal data is destroyed after the purpose for which it was obtained from the owner. Personal data will not be transferred to any other party unless required by law.
- Personal data shall be processed fairly and lawfully and, in particular, shall not be processed unless
- at least one of the conditions in Schedule 2 is met, and
- in the case of sensitive personal data, at least one of the conditions in Schedule 3 is also met.
- Personal data shall be obtained only for one or more specified and lawful purposes and shall not be further processed in any manner incompatible with that purpose or those purposes. Personal data shall be adequate, relevant and not excessive in relation to the purpose or purposes for which they are processed.
- Personal data shall be accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date.
- Personal data processed for any purpose or purposes shall not be kept for longer than is necessary for that purpose or those purposes.
- Personal data shall be processed in accordance with the rights of data subjects under this Act. Appropriate technical and organisational measures shall be taken against unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and against accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, personal data.
- Personal data shall not be transferred to a country or territory outside the European Economic Area unless that country or territory ensures an adequate level of protection for the rights and freedoms of data subjects in relation to the processing of personal data.
Personal data is only held on a single mainframe computer and not transferred onto mobile devices. Personal data may be used for the promotion of Wilder Ways products with permission by the owner. If such permission is not given, personal data is destroyed after the purpose for which it was obtained from the owner. Personal data will not be transferred to any other party unless required by law.
