Best Places to See Wild Ponies in the UK
- Jeff Salt
- Apr 29
- 3 min read
Best Places to See Wild Ponies in the UK
The UK is where you find some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, filled with wildlife and natural beauty. Among its treasures are wild ponies—great, feral horses that roam where they please and have become symbols of Britain's unspoiled countryside. Whether you are an outdoors enthusiast, a photographer, or just seeking a memorable adventure, seeing wild ponies in their natural habitat is an experience not to be forgotten.
If you are going to Scotland and require a convenient solution to explore, try reserving a Glasgow taxi to shuttle you to some of the finest pony-watching areas. From safe and comfortable transportation, you can look at the landscape without worrying about navigating.
In this guide, we'll look at the best locations in the UK to spot wild ponies, and how to experience the best views.
1. Dartmoor National Park, Devon
Dartmoor is arguably the most renowned spot for wild ponies in the UK. The resilient horses have been galloping over the moors for centuries, hardening to the harsh terrain and changeable climate.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and summer (April to September) when the ponies are most active.
Early morning or late afternoon for optimal light and fewer tourists.
Where to Spot Them:
Surrounding Postbridge and Widecombe-in-the-Moor.
Along the B3212 road, where they usually graze at the roadside.
Tips:
Be sure to keep your distance—these are wild creatures and should never be fed or approached.
Take along binoculars for closer inspection without intruding on them.
2. New Forest, Hampshire
The New Forest is also a famous site for wild ponies, with more than 5,000 open to roam the woodlands and heathlands. The ponies help to keep the ecosystem healthy by grazing on the plants.
Best Time to Visit:
Year-round, but best during spring for observing foals.
Autumn provides beautiful golden scenery.
Where to Spot Them:
Year-round, but best during spring for observing foals.
Autumn provides beautiful golden scenery.
Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary (ponies frequently graze alongside the deer).
Burley Village, where they tend to stray close to the roads.
Tips:
Drive slowly—ponies tend to cross roads unexpectedly.
Stay on designated trails to prevent intrusion into their territory.
3. Exmoor National Park, Somerset/Devon
Exmoor ponies are one of the UK's oldest native breeds, with a robust constitution and hardiness. If you're arriving in Scotland by air and traveling south, booking Edinburgh Airport transfers can assist in making your journey easier before you discover Exmoor's beauty.
Best Time to Visit:
Summer (June-August) for vivid green landscapes.
Winter provides a cinematic, misty atmosphere.
Where to Spot Them:
Wimbleball Lake area.
Dunkery Beacon, Exmoor's summit.
Tips:
Wear comfortable footwear—Exmoor's surface can be rough.
Be sure to check weather conditions beforehand.
4. Carneddau Mountains, Snowdonia
Wales is also home to the Carneddau ponies, a semi-feral pony breed that have inhabited the mountains for centuries. These smaller ponies are exceedingly resilient and live through severe winters at high elevations.
Best Time to Visit:
Late spring to early autumn (May-September).
Steer clear of winter unless a mountaineer.
Where to Spot Them:
In the vicinity of Llyn Ogwen and Bethesda.
Along mountain trails in the Carneddau range.
Tips:
Be aware of changing weather.
Keep your distance—these ponies are feral and not used to people.
5. The Shetland Islands, Scotland
The Shetland pony is perhaps the most familiar of the breeds, having a small stature and dense coat. Although some are domesticated, others are still running wild on the islands.
Best Time to Visit:
Summer (long days).
Steer clear of winter because of harsh weather.
Where to Spot Them:
Ronas Hill (Shetland's highest point).
Eshaness Cliffs (breathtaking coastal scenery with ponies).
Tips:
Hire a car for easier exploration.
Pack waterproof equipment—Shetland weather is changeable. this
6. The Long Mynd, Shropshire
The Long Mynd's wild ponies keep the heathland under control by grazing. This less-popular destination provides peaceful landscapes away from throngs of tourists.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and summer for lush greenery.
Where to Spot Them:
Pole Bank and Carding Mill Valley.
Tips:
Perfect for trekkers—numerous trails provide pony sightings.
Bring a camera—the vistas are breathtaking
Final Thoughts
The UK's wild ponies are living evidence of its natural heritage. Whatever your choice of Dartmoor's expansive moors, the unique woodlands of the New Forest, or the unspoiled loveliness of the Shetland Islands, each has something special to offer.
Remember to observe responsibly—keep your distance, avoid feeding them, and respect their habitat. With careful planning and a bit of patience, you’ll have the chance to witness these magnificent creatures in the wild.
Enjoy pony spotting!
Also read: Best Green Energy-Powered Attractions
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