Tall & grand, The Suffolk Punch is our county’s horse that are a distinct character in not only Suffolk’s own history but stand as the foundation of all English working horses. Identified by their warm ‘chesnut’ coloured coat distinct as it lacks any other kind of markings, all accompanied by their kind temperament these horses are genuine gentle giants.
Being the oldest horse breed to work alongside farmers in the fields. Bred for farm work dating as far back as the 16th century, The Suffolk Punch has a sturdy and striking character. Providing aid during the First World War, these heavy horses pulled guns & supply wagons across rough terrain to ensure the success of the Allied Forces. These horses have travelled the world and have made their mark in other nations such as Canada & the USA.
The Suffolk Punch helped build the agricultural industry of Suffolk & many parts of the world, but with the rise of agricultural machinery, they have fallen out of favour. Unfortunately, this led to a significant decline in their population, with less than 500 Suffolk Punches in the UK, all of which has resulted in their ‘critically endangered’ classification by the Rare Breed Survival Trust. From being England’s oldest breed of working horse, it has now become one of the rarest.
Hope has not been entirely lost for this historical breed, as The Suffolk Horse Society and The Suffolk Punch Trust, have worked to restore this breed to its former glory. There has also been a rising interest in reintroducing them into agriculture, as they can be used for eco-sensitive logging, general haulage or as a ridden horse.
Nedging Hall Estate too has made an effort to reinstate this beloved breed. It has been one of the passions of the Buckle family since arriving in Suffolk, having a brood mare and foal born in 2022. You might spot them around the paddocks and grounds. Gill Buckle was a proud supporter of the Suffolk Horse Society, having been on their council for 10 years. We understand & adore this gorgeous breed, and at Nedging Hall Estate we do what we can to show this unsung horse of our history the adoration it deserves.