The country’s first museum dedicated solely to the horse is set to open near Doncaster.
Built in an old coaching inn — the Newcastle Arms — the museum is made up of equestrian items collected by horse lover Sally Mitchell over the past 30 years.
“My first acquisition was the gift of an old horse brass when I was about 7,” she said. “Since then I’ve been trawling sales, antiques shops and fairs.
“I recently bought a pair of early 18th century riding boots from an Italian auction room.”
The collection includes bits that are 2,000 years old and spurs from the Roman era. There are also 17th century saddles, as well as an American section, a vet equipment collection and military apparel.
The museum opens on 10 June. Visit: www.sallymitchell.com
First published in the Horse and Hound 22 May 2014.
