The Heavy Horse Breeds

dogs welcome on leads

Dogs Welcome

Dogs welcome on leads

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Fun for the whole family

Our Heavy Horses

Within the British Isles, there are 3 Native breeds, these being the Clydesdale, Shire and Suffolk Punch.  However, there is a fourth that is highly recognised, that of the Percheron even though this breed was imported many many years ago.

Valda Merlin
Clydesdale Horses Grazing

The Clydesdale

The Clydesdale was founded in the mid 18th Century in Lanarkshire and is the native breed of Scotland.

The Shire

The recognised English Shire Horse dates back to the mid to late 1700s, however, prior to this were the English Draft Horse in and around the 16th Century.

Shire Horse in Field of Yellow Flowers
Percheron Rare Heavy Horse Standing Tall

The Percheron

It is said that the first Percheron came to England from France in the days of William the Conqueror, however, recorded stock was not until around 1918.

Inside Hay Farm - horse-drawn machinery

What's on Offer

Educational Visits

Schools and educational establishments are welcomed at Hay Farm. Please get in touch via email to discuss your requirements.

Social group Visits

Member of a club or social group? Join us for a visit! Discounts made for group bookings and lunches/carriage rides can be included in the price. Please get in touch to book your visit.

External Talks

We are available to provide talks about the centre and heavy horses at external venues. Please get in touch to discuss your requirements.

Carriage Rides

Short carriage rides run throughout the school holidays; please check the homepage or Facebook for up-to-date information relating to the rides.

Filming Hire

Both horses and equipment are available to hire for film and production work. Both our horses and handlers have years of experience with heavy horses and would be happy to discuss your requirements. We also offer Hay Farms' historic setting and spectacular views as a film location.