Nearly 500 years ago, Henry VIII started the process to acquire the ultimate war horse, and so the Shire Horse was born. His desire to produce a war horse that could carry a man in heavy armour to battle also resulted in a great agricultural work horse that met a new demand in the Industrial Revolution. To this day, the Shire Horse is still the largest horse in the world with some standing as tall as 20 hands (compared to the average race horse which is 16 hands). Unfortunately, these magnificent creatures have now been designated as being at risk by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust and are rarer than the giant panda!

Today, the Shire Horses are not just simply used for carriage rides, they are also vitally important for the work they do on the 60 acres of land at Hampton Court as well as all the Royal Parks and many other surrounding areas of London. The Shire Horses at Hampton Court Palace are part of a small herd that are the last working Shires in London, a suitable tribute to King Henry VIII’s plans all those years ago.

Get the little ones involved with a wonderful variety of craft activities. Whether they want to create their favourite new beaded bracelet, get involved in crafts including postcard decorating, there is plenty to keep them busy! There are even Workshops suitable for your budding craft enthusiast, browse our Make & Create Workshops!

Please note: children's activities will only be running on Saturday & Sunday at the Festival. 

Find plenty of inspirational crafting ideas and get creative in hands-on mini workshops and demonstrations hosted by our bespoke makers this May. Pick up craft techniques, gain expert advice and get inspired in interactive sessions, from Indian block printing to beautiful embroidery. There's something for everyone to enjoy and take home! Check out more details on all the available workshops here.

Take a break from browsing and join in with some traditional fête games on the East Lawn, where you can try your hand with a whack-a-mole, bean bag toss or an array of other activities. 

This Artisan Fayre, alongside the popular Shire Horse Carriage Rides in the East Front Gardens, we bring to you a unique opportunity to meet and greet one of our shire horses. Come and learn more about our gentle giants, their history, get up close and enjoy being in their presence. An unforgettable experience for all ages!