English Dales Ponies

The Dales Pony is a kind, gentle breed. They are gifted athletes, strong, sturdy and beautiful. For centuries, these ponies have been valued for their willingness to work, their personable and friendly nature and incredible hardiness.

The Dales Pony originates from Northeast England, near the Scottish border, in the rugged and beautiful Yorkshire dales. Descended from the native ponies of the region, they were used in Roman times for pack work, carrying heavy loads long distances over rough terrain. They have been used on the small hillside farms, working in all kinds of weather performing a variety of tasks, whether farm work, hitched to a cart for a sharp trot to town, or under saddle for an energetic hunt..

The Dales Pony has a bold temperament, great presence and an eye-catching fast trot, combined with stamina, agility and a calm, sensible nature. They are usually good in traffic, do not panic in awkward situations, and are very sure-footed. All these qualities make the Dales a first choice as a driving pony, either for pleasure, or for driving trials.

The combination of good conformation with energy and ability make the Dales Pony excellent for riding. They have a good ground covering walk, dynamic trot and rolling canter. Dales have the stamina and determination to keep going over long distances, making them favorites for trail and long distance rides. The Dales Pony can be a willing and clever jumper. They compete very successfully in cross - country, performance classes and dressage. They easily carry heavy adults and are kind enough to carry children.

In May of '04, Briar Hill Farm has its first Dales Pony foals. These wonderful foals are by the beautiful, kind and athletic stallion, Dykedale Duke, out of our imported mares,

Sunnybrowe Libby and Swayfield Kim.