Dartmoor Ponies – A Wild Icon of the Moor

Ponies have roamed Dartmoor for centuries, making them one of the most iconic sights in this rugged national park. Evidence of hoof prints dating back nearly 4,000 years shows just how deep their roots go. Written records mention ponies on the moor as early as AD 1012, making every encounter a truly special experience.

About Dartmoor’s Wild Ponies

Dartmoor Ponies may look friendly, but remember, they are wild animals. All ponies on the moor are owned by Dartmoor landowners, yet they live freely and thrive without human help. Please do not feed or touch them. They are well adapted to the harsh moorland weather and have everything they need to survive naturally.

Known for their calm nature and incredible strength, Dartmoor Ponies have played an important role in the region’s history. Over the years, they have worked as pit ponies, shepherding helpers, and even postal carriers. In the 1800s, these strong ponies transported heavy granite from Dartmoor’s quarries.

Back in 1950, around 30,000 ponies roamed Dartmoor. Today, the number has dropped to about 1,500, including various breeds such as Pedigree Dartmoor Ponies, Heritage Ponies, Hill Ponies, Shetlands, Welsh, and Spotted ponies.

Heritage Ponies

• Long, flowing mane

• Single-coloured coat

• No taller than 12 hands

Heritage Ponies, also known as Traditional Dartmoor Ponies, are bred on the moor following the official Breed Standard for Pedigree Dartmoor Ponies. Like their purebred relatives, they are strong, sure-footed, and essential for maintaining Dartmoor’s biodiversity.

Hill Ponies

• Any colour, size, or build

The most common ponies on Dartmoor, Hill Ponies, are a type rather than a breed. They are mixed from Shetland, Welsh, Arab, and Spotted ponies, resulting in diverse appearances. Hill Ponies help manage Dartmoor’s landscape and are gathered during the annual “drifts,” where some are rehomed as pets or riding ponies. Local charities work hard to ensure these ponies find safe homes.

Shetland Ponies

• Small and stocky

• Thick, fluffy coat

• Variety of colours

Introduced to Dartmoor to strengthen the pony population for work in mining, Shetland Ponies are incredibly hardy and strong for their size. Today, you can still spot these charming ponies grazing freely across the moor. Each year, Shetlands are sold to private owners at the historic Chagford Pony Sale.