Rare Dartmoor ponies to feature at upcoming Okehampton sale

Dartmoor’s semi-wild Hill Ponies will take centre stage at an exclusive sale next week after the breed has recently been given official recognition as a Native Breed at Risk. 

The event, organised by the Dartmoor Hill Pony Breeders Association (DHPA) and supported by Kivells auctioneers, will be held at The Grange Equestrian Centre in Okehampton on Tuesday, 28 October 2025.

Ponies registered with the DHPA have now qualified for DEFRA’s Native Breeds at Risk scheme, marking an important milestone for one of England’s last semi-wild horse populations. 

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The recognition highlights the breed’s genetic importance and the long history of ponies on Dartmoor, which stretches back thousands of years.

DNA analysis has linked modern Dartmoor Hill Ponies to prehistoric pony remains, including a bone discovered in Kent’s Cavern and illustrations of ponies in the 17,000-year-old Lascaux cave paintings in France. 

The variety of colours and sizes seen today reflects the breed’s diverse heritage, according to the DHPA.

The sale will feature ponies born and bred on Dartmoor by DHPA members, and each animal comes with a DNA-tested passport, giving buyers confidence in its heritage. 

The auction is open both live at The Grange and online through the MartEye app, allowing supporters and potential buyers from across the country to take part.

The Grange Equestrian Centre, located just off the A38, offers undercover facilities, easy access for horse trailers, and a large drive-through car park. 

Viewing for the sale begins at 8.30am, with the auction starting at 11am.

Visitors to the sale will also have the opportunity to attend a demonstration and talk by Jenny Major of Intelligent Horsemanship at 10am. 

The session will cover tips on first handling and developing a positive partnership with ponies.

The event is expected to draw enthusiasts from across the UK and provides a chance to celebrate and support Dartmoor’s rare and historic ponies.

For more information, visit the DHPA website or the Dartmoor Hill Pony - Drift Sales Facebook page.