Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre
📍 Tarporley, North West
Internationally renowned shire horse stud with up to 30 horses during breeding season, native wildlife including otters and red squirrels, a Wildlife Watch Nature Trail with quiz, and daily horse talks with animal feeding sessions.
Really enjoyed our ridiculously rainy day here, we went on the wildlife talk with one of the volunteers who was really informative and clearly loved the animals. Then we had 'meet the shire' talk with one of the foals and her mum, again a really nice experience with a guide happy to answer our questions. As well as the horses there are lots of chickens, geese and ducks, a pig, foxes, otters, pole cats, Scottish wildcats and an owl. There are also red deer but we only saw them at a distance because of the rain.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families who want an educational, hands-on animal experience that works across generations — from young children to grandparents. The daily talks are genuinely informative and the animals are approachable. The site involves substantial walking on a long route; wear comfortable footwear.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →1,066 Google reviews
Emma Telford
7 months ago
“Really enjoyed our ridiculously rainy day here, we went on the wildlife talk with one of the volunteers who was really informative and clearly loved the animals. Then we had 'meet the shire' talk with one of the foals and her mum, again a really nice experience with a guide happy to answer our questions. As well as the horses there are lots of chickens, geese and ducks, a pig, foxes, otters, pole cats, Scottish wildcats and an owl. There are also red deer but we only saw them at a distance because of the rain.”
CER
a month ago
“I had an experience day at Cotebrook and it was fabulous! Justin was so friendly and knowledgeable. I helped make the feeds, turn the horses out, muck out and met all the horses individually in their fields. The foals were adorable. It’s a really lovely place to visit and the horses are really well cared for and are clearly loved and very happy. I got a few gifts (including a massive horseshoe). Thank you for being so welcoming 😍”
Elizabeth Whitehead
5 months ago
“Such an amazing place. The horses are so well looked after and loved meeting each visitor. They loved having cuddles and pets. The staff were really friendly and informative about all the animals not just the horses. The otters in particular were so gorgeous 🥰 It’s a long walk around with some seating but could benefit from more. I would highly recommend going for the day out here, taking a picnic and just going at your own pace.”
Natalie
7 months ago
“we had the most amazing day here looking at the animals! the shire horses are so beautiful and we were able to stroke them as well as listen to a talk about each of them. The centre also has otters and foxes which we were able to learn about whilst they were being fed. Honestly, the most incredible place with such friendly staff and beautiful animals - will definitely be coming back!”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre is the UK's only public shire horse stud, housing up to 30 horses during breeding season alongside native wildlife exhibits including otters, red squirrels, and foxes. Families join daily guided horse talks, watch feeding sessions, and walk the Wildlife Watch Nature Trail with its accompanying quiz sheet. Experience days offer hands-on involvement in feeds, turnout, and mucking out. The lakeside cafe serves homemade food and cream teas throughout the day.
