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Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre: Home of Champion Shires and Countryside Charm

Discover majestic Shire horses, rare British wildlife, and tranquil countryside charm at Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre in Cheshire.

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Nestled in 50 acres of picturesque Cheshire countryside, Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre is the UK's only Shire horse stud farm open to the public. Home to prize-winning Shires, it offers visitors a unique chance to meet majestic stallions, mares, and foals while exploring a diverse range of British wildlife. The centre features a nature trail, a family-friendly play park, and a lakeside café serving homemade treats, making it a perfect day out for all ages.

A brief summary to Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre

  • Eaton Ln, Tarporley, Cotebrook, CW6 9DP, GB
  • +441829760506
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Prebook tickets online at least 7 days in advance to save £1 per ticket and secure your preferred entry time.
  • Plan to spend 2 to 4 hours to fully enjoy the horses, nature trail, play park, and café.
  • Visit in spring to experience the Foal Watch program and see newborn Shire foals grow.
  • Bring children for the tractor-themed play park and interactive animal experiences.
  • Allow time to relax at the Lakeside Café, offering homemade treats and cream teas with scenic views.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from central Tarporley takes approximately 10 minutes via the A49 northbound. Free parking is available on site. Note that coach parking requires prior arrangement.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Tarporley to Cotebrook with a 20-minute walk from the nearest stop. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance. Walking involves country lanes with some uneven surfaces.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from Tarporley to Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre typically take 10 minutes and cost around £10-£15. This offers a convenient option if public transport is limited.

Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre

A Legacy of Champion Shire Horses

For over 50 years, Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre has been renowned for breeding prize-winning Shire horses, the largest breed of horse in the world. These magnificent animals, including stallions, mares, and foals, form the heart of the centre. Visitors can learn about the Shire horse’s rich history, from its role in medieval times carrying knights in armor to its modern-day importance in studwork and showing. The knowledgeable staff share insights into preparing horses for shows and maintaining this iconic English breed.

Immersive Countryside Experience

Set amid 50 acres of rolling Cheshire countryside, the centre offers more than just horses. A Wildlife Watch Nature Trail, developed in partnership with Cheshire Wildlife Trust, connects visitors with native species and rare British animals such as miniature Shetland ponies, Large Black pigs, Aberdeen Angus cattle, birds of prey, red deer, foxes, red squirrels, polecats, and otters. This blend of domesticated and wild fauna creates a peaceful and educational environment that appeals to nature lovers and families alike.

Family-Friendly Facilities and Activities

Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre caters well to families with young children. A dedicated play park with tractor-themed equipment provides fun for the little ones, while the centre’s interactive approach allows visitors to get close to the horses, including grooming and feeding opportunities. The centre also hosts special events such as Shire Horse Experience Days and seasonal foal watch programs, where visitors can follow the growth of newborn foals through video diaries.

Relaxation and Refreshment at the Lakeside Café

After exploring the grounds, visitors can unwind at the Lakeside Café, open daily from 10am to 4:30pm. The café serves a selection of hot and cold drinks, homemade soups, filled rolls, paninis, cakes, and traditional cream teas. The menu includes daily specials like baked potatoes and warm apple pie with custard, available for dine-in or takeaway, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the tranquil countryside views.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Open every day from 10am to 5pm year-round except Christmas Day and Boxing Day, the centre offers flexible visiting hours and encourages prebooking to manage visitor flow. Admission includes a Special Saver Ticket valid for unlimited returns within a month, enhancing value for repeat visits. Ample free parking is available on-site, and group visits can be arranged by prior appointment. The welcoming atmosphere and informative staff ensure a memorable and educational visit for all ages.

Supporting Conservation and Education

Beyond its role as a stud farm and visitor attraction, Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre is committed to animal welfare and conservation education. It provides a vital habitat for rare breeds and native wildlife, promoting sustainable countryside stewardship. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the centre’s educational programs and support efforts to preserve the heritage of the Shire horse and British rural life.

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