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Shire Horse Experience
At the internationally renowned Cotebrook Shire Horse Stud, we have been breeding prize-winning Shire's for over 50 years and one of our experienced horsemen or horsewomen will personally guide you through your experience.
Enjoy a wonderful day getting up close and personal with some of the biggest horses in the world! Be prepared for all weathers and to get your hands dirty. Our aim is to give people the chance to get a taste for what life is like looking after our amazing Shire horses.
You will work alongside one of our expert horsemen and horsewomen and learn some fascinating facts abut Shire Horses.
Plus, you will be able to learn all about the history of these native horses, from their carrying of Knights into battle during the Middle Ages, to their near extinction in the 1950's with the introduction of the motor vehicle.
Various aspects of studwork will be explored, depending on season, such as Stallion work, breed lines, scanning and foaling. You can also learn about the ideal confirmation of a Shire horse and what the show ring judge is looking for.
Shire Horse Experience- Three and a half hours- £100.00
Arrival and welcome at 9.00am
Your Shire Horse Experience may include everything from mucking out the stables and feeding the horses, to preparing for the show ring by washing the feathers
Personal tour around the stables and paddocks around our 50 acre farm to meet all our Shire horses up close.
An introduction to studwork, showing and the history of Shires.
The opportunity to get up really close to stroke and groom a Shire
The opportunity to ask lots of questions!
An introduction to our wildlife during the Walk on the Wildside
A souvenir gift pack including a Certificate and a Champion rosette
Free admission to the Centre for the rest of the day
Fantastic memories of a unique experience!
£20.00 for the participants partner to join as an observer and take photographs!
Need to know...
- Minimum age - 18 due to health and safety, and insurance reasons.
- Fitness/Health - Participants should be in reasonable health and agile enough to lift and carry, and walk on uneven ground.
- Dress code - comfortable hard wearing outdoor clothing suitable for the time of year. Waterproofs if necessary.
- Wear sensible walking boots or sturdy trainers. We have wellies for loan.
- Available all year around on a pre booked basis, except for School holidays, bank holidays and show days (which vary)
- Details for the day will vary depending on the weather and the stud farms needs.
- Bookings can be postponed at short notice by either party due to adverse weather or unforeseen circumstances
Set in 50 acres in the heart of the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre and Stud Farm offers everything for the perfect day out. Home of the internationally renowned Cotebrook Shire Horse Stud, the King family have been breeding Champion Shires here for over 50 years and they form the centrepiece of the Centre with up to 25 horses at any time for you to meet. The Shire Horse is the largest breed of horse in the world and you are invited to meet the Stallion, Mares & Foals and learn about this fabulous Old English Breed from the friendly and informative staff who will be pleased to share their knowledge. At Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre there is lots to see and do to make your visit interesting and enjoyable. You can learn all about the Shire Horse, from its history carrying knights in armour to the important studwork today, ensuring the future of this magnificent breed There is an opportunity to meet the horses up close and there are regular talks with a personal introduction to some of the Shires. As well as the fabulous Shire horses there is a selection of British animals and birdlife both wild and domesticated including rare breeds. You can wander around the various trails to meet the horses further afield, explore the Wildlife Watch Trail and Woodland area, browse around the gift shop with its unique country gifts and souvenirs, then visit the Lakeside Cafe which offers light lunches and cream teas. A warm welcome is assured all year around.
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