For two days on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May, heavy horses from around the country will converge on Blists Hill Victorian Town in this popular annual event.
Heavy Horse Weekend will demonstrate the vital role played by these mighty creatures in trade and industry in Victorian Britain.
Visitors will be able to see the majestic power, strength and grace of these magnificent giants pulling a variety of historic vehicles. There will be harnessing and grooming demonstrations and the horses’ expert handlers will be there to answer questions about their horses.
Heavy horses played a vital role in industry and agriculture in the Ironbridge Gorge and in Victorian England in general. By the end of the Victorian era there were still about 3.3 million horses in Britain, one for every 11 people. They were used for hauling and transporting goods, materials, and people in waggons, buses, drays, carts, and carriages. From the 18th century, selective breeding led to distinctive breeds of working horses, and the Shire horse grew to be the most popular choice for Shropshire farmers.
Free event included in ticket price. Only guide and assistance dogs are permitted on site during this event.