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The Dales Ponies: Guardians of England's Rugged Landscapes The Dales pony, a rare and resilient breed, is an enduring symbol of the rugged moorlands of northern England. Known for their strength, versatility, and gentle temperament, these ponies have a rich history that intertwines with the livelihoods of the rural communities they have long served. Originating in the Dales regions of Yorkshire, the breed was initially developed for its utility.
Their stamina made them indispensable to lead-mining operations during the 17th and 18th centuries, where they carried heavy loads over harsh terrain. Later, their robust build and sure-footed nature saw them serve as pack animals during wartime and as reliable mounts for farmers and tradespeople. Standing between 14 and 14.2 hands high, Dales ponies are immediately recognizable by their strong, compact build and striking black, bay, or grey coats. Their thick manes, tails, and feathering protect them from the harsh upland climate, while their hard, dense hooves make them well-suited to traversing rocky landscapes.
Today, the Dales pony faces the challenges of modernity. Mechanization and changing agricultural practices have reduced their practical roles, leading to their "at risk" classification by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Despite this, they continue to thrive as beloved companions and versatile riding and driving ponies. Conservation efforts have grown to ensure the survival of these incredible animals. Breeding programs, education initiatives, and the dedicated work of enthusiasts aim to preserve their legacy. Meanwhile, many Dales ponies still roam semi-wild on the moors, embodying the spirit of England's untamed countryside.
The Dales pony's story is one of resilience, adaptability, and enduring charm. By raising awareness and supporting conservation, we can ensure that future generations continue to witness these remarkable ponies as they gallop across the landscapes they've called home for centuries.
In the UK we are lucky enough to have beautiful native horses and ponies roaming our land. Some of the Native breeds originate from particular regions across the UK & Ireland and roam in semi-wild herds that are accustomed to their particular environments. They graze in harsh, vast landscapes where hill farmers with commoner’s rights are custodians of these breeds. They care for them, protect them, ensuring their safety, health and continuing the long line of ancient gene pools continue for these native breeds to thrive and be healthy. Other native breeds are traditional workhorses with a long history of working alongside men from agriculture to industry over the years.
Their environments are changing, from intensive agriculture, expansive building, fencing off vast areas of moorland which restricts grazing, lack of interest in native breeds from horse enthusiasts, hill farmers whose families have farmed their land for many generations are unable to pass down their farms to new generations due to financial pressures and changes to farming legislation. All these elements are diminishing the likelihood of a future in the wild for our rare native breeds.
I’m passionate about our rare native breeds and the natural habitats they live in. I have loved every minute of creating this wonderful book project. I hope that Wild Hearts will raise the profile of our native breeds who have grazed and shaped our land for hundreds of years – some of which are facing possible extinction.
At a time when our world is fragile and in need of great change and care from us all. I believe it’s so important to cherish all our environments, nature and animals. With a passionate message of conservation at its heart, once complete, I hope that my fine art horse photography art book aim will show people the heart and soul of these wonderful breeds and to encourage people to support these vulnerable breeds, either by protecting them in their natural environment or by buying a registered pony; a step which could help save these rare breeds.
| Print Size (ISO) | 45cm x 32cm, 17.7in x 12.6in (Fits A3 frame), 64cm x 47cm, 25.2in x 18.5in (Fits A2 frame), 89cm x 65cm, 35in x 25.6in (Fits A1 frame) |
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| Frame Option | Sanctuary frame, Unframed (print only) |
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