About Us
Home > About Us
The History Of Cotebrook
Welcome All
We welcome you to Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre.
Set in 50 acres in the heart of the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre and Stud Farm offers everything for the perfect day out.
Home of the internationally renowned Cotebrook Shire Horse Stud, the King family have been breeding Champion Shires here for over 50 years and they form the centrepiece of the Centre with up to 30 horses at any time for you to meet.
At Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre there is lots to see and do to make your visit interesting and enjoyable. You can learn all about the Shire horse, from its history carrying knights in armour to the important studwork today, ensuring the future of this magnificent breed

There is an opportunity to meet the horses up close and there are regular talks with a personal introduction to some of the Shires.
As well as the fabulous Shire horses there is a selection of British animals and birdlife both wild and domesticated including rare breeds.
You can wander around the various trails to meet the horses further afield, explore the Wildlife Watch Trail and Woodland area, browse around the gift shop with its unique country gifts and souvenirs, then visit the Lakeside Cafe which offers light lunches and cream teas.
Every spring there is FOAL WATCH which follows each mare in the weeks and days before she foals. Foal Watch then follows the foals as they grow and explore their new world.
We also offer Shire Horse Experiences, as featured on BBC1, where you can find out what life is like looking after our magnificent Shire horses.
A warm welcome is assured all year around, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
The Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre
Our Mission
- To promote and preserve the old English breed of Shire Horse
- To promote Native breeds both wild and domesticated
- To promote an environment conducive to encouraging wildlife to thrive and flourish
- To raise the publics awareness and interest in all of the above
- To provide the best, most informative, captivating visitor experience for promoting the heritage of Shire Horses in the UK

The Shire Horse is the largest breed of horse in the world and we invite you to meet our Stallions, Mares & Foals and learn about this fabulous Old English Breed from our friendly and informative staff who will be pleased to share their knowledge.
We have up to 30 horses at any time for you to meet. Why not come along for a visit and discover these beautiful animals for yourself!