New Forest

The New Forest Pony inhabits the forests of Hampshire. Ponies were first recorded as roaming the New Forest in 1016 and have occupied the forest ever since. A number of other breeds have been introduced to the New Forest pony in order to improve the breed. These include an Arab horse owned by Queen Victoria, and later Highland, Fell, Dartmoor, Exmoor, Thoroughbred and Welsh stallions were brought in to the bloodline; however since 1930 no outside blood has been permitted. The New Forest Pony Breeding and Cattle Breeding Society were formed in 1960 and published its own Stud Book.

The New Forest Pony has a long head, short neck, sloping shoulders, a short back and strong hindquarters. The New Forest Pony can be any colour except piebald, skewbald or spotted. New Forest ponies are not allowed to have blue eyes but white markings on the head and legs are permitted.  They are known for being very calm.

New Forest Ponies are intelligent, willing, docile and friendly. They are easy to train.  

The New Forest Pony is a good general riding pony for both children and adults. Newforests are great jumpers