Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre - Image 1

Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre

Cotebrook, United Kingdom•4.6(1.1k)•Country Park, Farm, Nature Reserve

Meet internationally renowned Shire horses and Shetland ponies at the UK's only public shire horse stud farm, set within beautiful countryside grounds.

Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre is a unique family destination centered around the internationally celebrated Cotebrook Shire Horse Stud, which has been breeding prize-winning Shires for over 50 years. Visitors can see up to 30 magnificent Shire horses during the stud season, with around 20 available year-round, making it the only publicly accessible shire horse stud farm in the UK. The centre also features Shetland ponies, offering close encounters with these impressive animals. Beyond the horses, the centre provides a wealth of outdoor activities and attractions. The Wildlife Watch Nature Trail, developed in partnership with the Cheshire Wildlife Trust, connects native species exhibits with the natural wildlife found on the farm and surrounding countryside. Families can enjoy leisurely walks through the scenic grounds while learning about local ecology and conservation. The venue is designed to appeal to all ages and family groups. Facilities include the Lakeside Café serving homemade refreshments, soups, filled rolls, paninis, and cakes, making it easy to spend a full day exploring. The centre is open seven days a week year-round, with special seasonal events including a festive Santa grotto experience. Visitors can also participate in experience days, memberships, and horse adoption opportunities, providing deeper engagement with these magnificent animals.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Lakeside Cafe

Cafe serving hot and chilled drinks, homemade soup, filled rolls, paninis, cakes, cream teas, baked potatoes, and warm desserts. Available for dine-in or takeaway.

Hours: 10:00-16:30 daily

Visit website
Follow:

Google Reviews

4.6(1.1k reviews)
S
Steven Moore

Steven Moore

a month ago

Lots of open space nead good shoes for walking in heals not good allso has a few outher animals not allways seen but are in there hidden birds are roaming free they do a few talks its big open space depending on weather u might get wet or be in the sun bring a drinks bottle for walking around they do have a cafe but we did not use it they do have picnic tables but u will be with birds paths are gravel. Grass in the woods anyone in a wheelchair should be OK but having someone with u would be handy for a bit of a push on a few inclined places? One lots of toilets at the entrance hand gel in your bag might be handy for after stroking some animals

E
Ellie Phillips

Ellie Phillips

3 months ago

A nice place to visit - lovely to see the wild animals get fed and see the Shires. All the animals are healthy and happy. The talks were more chatty than informational for me. I had hoped the horse talk would be by someone involved in their breeding/care to hear more about them and efforts to conserve the breed (more like the website content), but that’s just me.

A
Anne brown

Anne brown

4 months ago

A lovely place to visit. We went before Christmas. They had a lovely Christmas grotto there. We petted all the beautiful shire horses. We watched the otters and the Scottish wild cats being fed. The children got to groom a gorgeous little pony called Poppet, and learnt how she was rescued by Cotebrook. The staff and all really friendly. There's a gift shop and café. There's toilets available to use on site. It's a really lovely day with the kids, we will definitely be going back.

C
CER

CER

5 months ago

I had an experience day at Cotebrook and it was fabulous! Justin was so friendly and knowledgeable. I helped make the feeds, turn the horses out, muck out and met all the horses individually in their fields. The foals were adorable. It’s a really lovely place to visit and the horses are really well cared for and are clearly loved and very happy. I got a few gifts (including a massive horseshoe). Thank you for being so welcoming 😍

E
Elizabeth Whitehead

Elizabeth Whitehead

9 months ago

Such an amazing place. The horses are so well looked after and loved meeting each visitor. They loved having cuddles and pets. The staff were really friendly and informative about all the animals not just the horses. The otters in particular were so gorgeous 🥰 It’s a long walk around with some seating but could benefit from more. I would highly recommend going for the day out here, taking a picnic and just going at your own pace.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre

Is Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre free to visit?

Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre.

Is there parking at Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre?

Yes, Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre has on-site parking.

Is there food at Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre?

Yes — Lakeside Cafe is on site at Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre. Cafe serving hot and chilled drinks, homemade soup, filled rolls, paninis, cakes, cream teas, baked potatoes, and warm…

Is Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre?

Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre by public transport?

Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
Kiddy Compass