Harwood Arabian Stud has a proud history as the oldest Arabian Stud in Great Britain.

The stud is a delightful oasis of calm and order on the outskirts of the town of Horsham, and whilst low key, matters are arranged with taste and discretion. The overwhelming feeling that a visitor has is of order, modesty and old-fashioned charm. The first sight on arrival is of attractive flower beds and climbing roses thanks to the late Monica Calvert who as well as loving her stud was also a keen gardner.

Stud Groom Joe Norman and his wife Sue were in charge at Hop Oast Farm for over 26 years. In this photo they are about to go into the ring for the Championship at Surrey County Show. Since Joe’s retirement in 1998 , the role of Stud Groom has passed to Peter Towler who is ably following in the footsteps of the Normans. He is assisted by Meurisa Sterry, the Head Girl.

Peter with foal

The horses are kept in a very horse-friendly way, always in suitably sized groups. The paddocks are well arranged and many have field shelters to provide shelter from the elements in winter and summer. The stallions each have their own paddocks adjacent to their stables, and there is a sand school for exercise and schooling.  

Many of the horses are descended from the old lines, established in Horsham over 100 years ago, and the stud is on land it has used since the 1960s, close to the original stud set up by Miss May Lyon; to learn more about the history of the stud and its past horses visit the History Page.

Selene (Saker/Caecilia) enjoying herself in the sand at 2 years of age

The setting at Harwood has enabled the stud to act as a cradle for many good horses in all fields of endeavour. Monica’s daughter Georgie has ridden the stud’s horses since her teenage years covering a wide spectrum of disciplines, latterly she concentrated on racing and much effort was put in to this area, and subsequent enjoyment gained from it. Horses bred at the stud are also shown successfully, especially under saddle and compete in open dressage with considerable impact. Successful and influential stallions have stood at the stud, and many outside mares have over the years visited them. For currently available stallions get More Details.