A trip to Exmoor, in the South West of England, offers an opportunity to discover one of the UK's national treasures - the wild Exmoor Pony. This fascinating little horse has roamed the countryside of the British Isles for perhaps tens of thousands of years and is, in all probability, a surviving prehistoric horse! Fashioned by nature herself, rather than the whims of horse breeders, this pony has beautiful markings that are present in every single animal.
The Exmoor Pony is amazingly hardy - able to withstand the harshest winters and survive independently out on the moorlands of Exmoor, yet is blessed with a temperament that allows them to be tamed and become partners with man. Once you have made friends with an Exmoor pony, you have a loyal and trusting friend for life. Although small in stature, they can still carry both children and adults.
The ponies are considered a rare breed and they have a dedicated army of friends and supporters who are committed to ensuring that the breed flourishes in today's world - such as the Moorland Mousie Trust and the Exmoor Pony Society.
All over Exmoor, nestling in idyllic wooded combes, pretty river valleys, or in the folds of spectacular moorland, you will find cosy farmsteads offering a warm welcome and special Exmoor hospitality for B&B guests. There is masses to do for all the family - meandering walks along ancient river paths or forest trails, bracing hikes across the moorland and trips on the steam railway. Or, for the more adventurous - mountain biking, horse riding, water sports, safaris and even carriage driving with heavy shire horses. The abundance of wildlife such as the elegant red deer, gliding buzzards, small mammals, rare butterflies and huge array of farm animals provide endless fascination - as do the wild Exmoor ponies, when you are lucky enough to see the herds out on the moor.
Exmoor people love the ponies so you won't have to look far to find someone happy and willing to introduce you to their own special Exmoor ponies. And, if you time your visit to coincide with one of the area's summer shows such as Exford Show or Dunster Show in August, you'll be treated to a display of the best ponies - shown in hand and ridden - some of which will have come straight from the moor!
For information on Exmoor ponies, Exmoor and the South West, horse holidays and places to stay, events and shows listings and everything equestrian visit www.equinetourism.co.uk.