The Rocking Horse Shop

Fifty Years of Joy: Celebrating Our Golden Anniversary at The Rocking Horse Shop

From a Dream in a Garage...

Our story began way back in 1976, in a small garage where our founder, Anthony Dew, crafted his very first wooden rocking horse with his own hands. With his wife by his side and a big dream in his heart, he founded a tiny company called The Rocking Horse Winner. Anthony wasn’t just making toys — he was breathing new life into a timeless craft.

Word quickly spread about these beautiful horses — not just for children, but for families who loved the idea of something handcrafted, meaningful and made to last.

Growing in Yorkshire and Beyond

By the mid-1980s Anthony and his wife had taken a big step, moving into an old butcher’s shop and officially launching The Rocking Horse Shop. Soon after came the publication of Making Rocking Horses, a book that helped others learn this wonderful craft.

As interest grew, our team grew too. By 1991 we had moved to purpose-built workshops in Fangfoss in the East Riding of Yorkshire — a beautiful place that remains the heart of our work today.

Classic Craft with a Dash of Wonder

Over the years, we’ve remained true to our roots. Every horse that leaves our workshop starts as a piece of wood — and becomes a cherished companion, often named and loved through childhood, and sometimes kept as a family heirloom for generations.

In 2011, we even made headlines with “Bigger Bertie,” a colossal rocking horse measuring an incredible 28 feet long and nearly 15 feet high — the World’s Largest Rocking Horse!

A Family Tradition Continues

In 2020, the helm of the company passed to James and Becca, the current guardians of our tradition — keeping alive Anthony’s original vision while looking boldly toward the future. Under their care, we continue to create rocking horses that spark imagination and delight — from whimsical starter horses to bespoke masterpieces designed just for you.

Thank YOU for Being Part of the Journey

As we mark 50 golden years, we want to say thank you — truly and warmly — to every one of our customers. You’re the reason our craft has flourished. Whether you’ve welcomed one of our hand-carved horses into your home, joined a carving workshop, commissioned a bespoke design, or simply followed our story over the years — you are part of this celebration.

From that first rocking horse in a garage, to the worldwide community of makers and lovers we are today, it’s been an incredible ride. And we hope you’ll stick with us for the next 50 years of stories, craftsmanship, and joyful moments.

Here’s to the next chapter — and to many more happy memories made together!