Burlybed welcomes the Hook Norton Brewery Shire Horses
We are delighted to announce a new partnership with one of Britain’s most iconic heavy horse teams, the Hook Norton Brewery Shires. As one of only two breweries in the UK still delivering their award‑winning ales by traditional horse‑drawn dray, Hook Norton Brewery continues to champion heritage, craftsmanship, and the vital role of the Shire horse in British brewing history. Their Shires are not just a symbol of tradition; they remain an active and essential part of the brewery’s daily life.
Brigadier, Balmoral and Cromwell are the magnificent trio who make up the Hook Norton team. They live onsite at the brewery, enjoying 18 acres of beautiful Oxfordshire grazing and stabled in their stunning Victorian stable block, recently restored after a devastating fire 18 months ago.
We’re incredibly proud that these remarkable horses are now bedded on Burlybed Soft Extra, our comfortable, supportive and cosy chopped wheat straw bedding with the added extra benefit of naturally antiseptic eucalyptus and soothing aloe vera. Their welfare is at the heart of everything the team does, and we’re honoured to support Nick, Alyster and the boys with a bedding solution that matches the standard of care they provide every single day.
This partnership also carries a deeper purpose. Shire horses remain on the critical list for rare breeds. Together with Hook Norton Brewery, we’re committed to raising awareness of the breed’s importance, celebrating their contribution to British heritage, and supporting efforts to secure their future. These horses are living history and they deserve to be protected, championed and celebrated.
Hook Norton Brewery continues to keep heritage alive in a modern world, and at Burlybed, we’re proud to play a small part in supporting the horses who make that possible.
We can’t wait to share more stories, behind‑the‑scenes moments and updates from Brigadier, Balmoral and Cromwell as they settle into their new Burlybed beds.