History of the New Forest Pony

The New Forest Pony inhabits the forests of Hampshire and has done so for many years. Ponies were recorded as roaming the forests in 1016 and many breeds were turned out into the forests over the years. An arab owned by Queen Victoria was lent out from 1852 to 1860 in order to improve the breed and later Highland and Fell stallions were introduced, along with Dartmoor, Exmoor and Welsh blood. In 1891 a Society was formed to improve the New Forest Ponies and in 1906 the Burley and District New Forest Pony and Cattle Breeding Society registered ponies and published their first Stud Book in 1910. Since 1930 no outside blood has been permitted and the New Forest Pony Breeding and Cattle Breeding Society was formed in 1960 and published its own Stud Book.

Height of the New Forest Pony

The New Forest Pony stands 12 to 14.2 hh.

Colour of the New Forest Pony

The New Forest Pony can be any colour except Piebald and Skewbald.

Characteristics of the New Forest Pony

The New Forest Pony has a long head, short neck, sloping shoulders, short back, strong hindquarters. Hardy, straight action.

Temperament of the New Forest Pony

Intelligent, willing, docile and friendly.

Uses of the New Forest Pony

The New Forest Pony is an ideal general riding pony for both children and adults. Good driving pony.