A petite pony carriage can be a real treat for anyone who wants to hire these vehicles for a special occasion. Ponies may be small but they are incredibly strong and their temperaments are perfect for this type of work. Willing and tough, agile and quick, a pony will often out-class its larger cousin in the field of carriage driving.

Ponies have been used for centuries for both domestic and agricultural work. Because there is such a wide variety of breeds there is a pony for every task. The Hackney pony was, for example, was specifically bred to be a carriage pony and is characterised by an exaggerated high-stepping action in both walk and trot. A refined head and strong joints makes this an ideal choice for people wishing to compete in fine harness, which is a driving competition specifically suited to ponies with a high-stepping action.

One of the most popular breeds for carriage driving are the enduring Welsh Cobs. These ponies have exceptional temperaments and abilities making them ideal for this purpose. Many hire companies in the UK favour the use of Cobs for their carriages as the ponies have incredible endurance whilst maintaining the refinement of body and gait. They are also the beginner’s choice for anyone wishing to learn how to drive horses.

Smaller ponies, such as the native Shetland pony, are also used for driving. Despite their minute stature they are charming creatures and the site of a pony trap being pulled by a Shetland conjures up pictures of Thelwell cartoons. They can be very cheeky and have one of the most individual characteristics of all the British pony breeds.

Another native is the New Forest Pony. This breed has been roaming the heaths of the area we now call the New Forest for over 1,000 years. Over time attempts to standardize the breed have largely failed due to interbreeding with natives from Dartmoor and Exmoor resulting a great deal of variability from pony to pony. This makes them ideal for a wide range of equine pursuits.

When you hire a horse drawn carriage you may already be getting a carriage pulled by a pony. It usually takes a trained eye to spot the difference between a pony and horse. But if you are especially looking for a pony carriage for a special occasion ask your local companies what types of ponies and horses they use. For example, a romantic country ride in the summer is a wonderful choice for pony and carriage. It can also be an entrancing alternative for a country wedding where a large horse and carriage may not be quite as suitable for the village surroundings. Imagine turning up to your wedding in a carriage made for two pulled by a pony decked out in ribbons and flowers on the bridle. Many villages have local pony driving enthusiasts who will often hire out carriages to people holding weddings in the locality at very reasonable rates.