Wadworth Shire Horses

Type: Animal Collection

Prince, Royal, Max and Tom are the latest in a long line of Shire horses which, apart from a brief interuption, have served Wadworth for over one hundred years. In their heyday, before the arrival of the internal combustion engine, more than forty Shires were used by the Brewery to deliver their already famous beers to local inns and hostelries. Ponies and traps were used by the Brewery's representatives to call on customers. It is a far cry from those tranquil, golden days, but the sight of the Wadworth Shires plodding their leisurely way through the ancient town of Devizes evokes memories of what used to be. They still deliver to Wadworth houses situated within two miles of the Brewery, and are a familiar and much loved part of the local scene. They work as two pair drays, each dray carrying a load of approximately three tons, and deliver every weekday morning in the town - weather permitting.
Although they are essentially working horses, as distinct from show horses, they take part in many shows, carnivals, and country fairs during the summer months. At these shows they occasionally drive a team of four. The present stable of Shires was started in 1974, and the first two horses, Bob and Baron were moved into purpose-built stables at the end of the year.

Harness and drays were made to specification, including three drays which were used solely for shows. These include a 1903 model which has been beautifully restored to its pristine condition and a lighter, more modern dray which can be pulled by a single horse.

In 1996 the Brewery acquired a trailer large enough to carry four Shires. The show dray, show harness, and quarters for the horsemen, to transport them to the various shows and events.

Each horse weighs about 18 cwts. Their daily feeds consists of best hay, bran, molasses, brewer's grains and the occasional pint of 6X, Henry's IPA or JCB. A set of shoes lasts three weeks and a mobile blacksmith visits weekly to keep them well shod. The average height of the horses is eighteen hands. The Shires' immaculate turnout, grooming and show discipline have won many prizes in the South of England.

The dedication and expertise of the Head Horseman, Barry Petherick and his staff who care for these gentle giants is a major factor in their success. They have also featured many times on radio and television programmes.
As a reward for their hard work during the year, the horses are put out to grass for two weeks in the summer when they get the chance to rest their legs and get fit for another year of service.

The stables are open to the public from 1.30pm to 3.30pm Monday to Thursday

Opening Times

2007 Opening 1 Jan 2007 - 31 Dec 2007

* Open to the public from 1.30pm to 3.30pm Monday to Thursday.

Tickets Information

Road Directions

In the Centre of the town oposite The Brewery Buildings

Public Transport Directions

Various bus routes into the town
Nearest Train Station: Chippenham & Swindon