The Rocking Horse Shop

As we mark the birthday of Charles I today (19th November), it feels fitting to shine a light on a remarkable piece of history that sits proudly in our showroom: our handcrafted replica of what is believed to be the very first Rocking Horse ever made.

Long before Charles I ascended to the throne in 1625, he was a young boy facing significant health challenges. Afflicted with rickets, he wore callipers on his legs, and his early years were marked by efforts to strengthen and support his developing body. It is believed that this innovative wooden horse was created specifically for him — designed not as a toy, but as a tool to help build muscle, balance, and confidence.

Today, the original horse can be found on display at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, where it continues to inspire historians, makers, and enthusiasts of traditional craftsmanship. Its simple yet ingenious design marks the beginning of a beloved tradition that would endure for centuries.

In 2007, we set out to recreate this important artefact using traditional methods and materials, just as it would have been made in the early 1600s. Every cut, carving, and curve pays homage to the craftsmanship of that era, resulting in a faithful replica that connects us to a poignant chapter of royal history.

Alongside it, we also showcase a modern interpretation of the same horse — this time crafted using contemporary laminated materials for durability and everyday practicality. Together, the two pieces tell a story not only of a future king, but of the evolution of the rocking horse itself: from a therapeutic childhood aid to a timeless symbol of play, imagination, and British craftsmanship.

As we celebrate Charles I’s birthday, we also celebrate the legacy of an object that started it all — a horse that helped a young boy grow strong, and in doing so, sparked a tradition that continues to rock gently through history.