Heavy Horse Yard
Get up close and personal with some of the biggest equines in the world at the Heavy Horse Yard, where you can give them a pat, find out more about them, and learn why these Big Friendly Giants are so much fun to be around!
The majority of the breeds you will see in the Heavy Horse Yard are on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust Watch List. There are fewer than 500 Suffolk Punches remaining in the UK, for example, — and the Heavy Horse Yard is the ultimate showcase for these beautiful animals.
The Heavy Horse Yard is open to all spectators for all three days.
Hook Norton Shires
Returning to YHL for their third time, Hook Norton’s Brigadier and Balmoral. These fantastic Shire horses are only six years old and are part of the delivery team at Hook Norton Brewery. Seen competing around the country, these horses also undertake weekly deliveries to the Hooky pubs. Head over to the Heavy Horse Village throughout the weekend or catch them in the Hook Norton Brewery Harness & Driving Masterclass on Friday, or in the Heavy Horse Parade on Sunday.
Fred the Suffolk Punch
Fred the Suffolk Punch returns again, weighing in at a whopping 1.1 tonnes and standing at 17.3h he’s the heaviest horse in attendance! The Suffolk is sadly at risk of extinction but remains a versatile working heavy breed with a very much deserved role in our future. Fred will be modelling a fantastic set of traditional decorated harness and can be seen up close and personal over the weekend in the Heavy Horse Village.
Meet Kolga du Crétil
Kolga is a stunning 17.2hh Percheron mare who embodies grace, power, and versatility. At just 5 years old, she excels in riding and showing, she’s learning how to drive, and even models for top equestrian photographers. Owned by Josie Shereston, A Trustee of the British Percheron Horse Society, Kolga is a proud ambassador of the breed—showcasing the beauty and versatility of Percherons to new and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Chester – Clydesdale
Chester our dressage diva! A fantastically agile heavy horse showcasing the breeds ridden versatility, and these horses need no longer be confined to field work and heavy farming machinery. Owner Alex will be riding him in our Sunday parade and putting him through his paces. Chester is just 9 years old, standing at 17.2 and can’t wait to meet you over the weekend!.
Max – Shire Horse
Max the Shire Horse makes his debut appearance at YHL this year and is owned by Carolyn Truss a talented horsewoman and harness maker. Standing at 18.2h, Max is the tallest heavy horse and will be shown on Sunday in a traditional Norfolk cart. Catch him on Friday too where he will join the Hook Norton Shires team as part of a Unicorn harnessing and driving display! Max can turn his hoof to most things and can be found being ridden, driven and even out ploughing!
