Crabbet Arabian Horses
Trusted companions, bred for centuries
Intelligent, gentle and versatile — Arabians shaped by the Crabbet tradition of temperament, soundness and a true bond with people.
Intelligent, gentle and versatile — Arabians shaped by the Crabbet tradition of temperament, soundness and a true bond with people.
For thousands of years, the Bedouins bred their horses to be tractable, sturdy, and athletic. Their “Asil” (pure) horses were not available to Europeans until the late 1800s, when British aristocrats Lady Anne and Wilfrid Blunt traveled to Arabia. The Blunts learned to speak Arabic, camped with the tribesmen, and learned their breeding strategies. After gaining the Bedouin’s respect, they were allowed to purchase several high-quality horses for their stud (Crabbet Park) in England.
Their daughter Lady Wentworth continued Crabbet Park’s breeding program and sold horses to the other Arabian studs in Europe (Russian, Polish, etc.). Today, Crabbet breeders around the world have maintained their commitment to preserving the best attributes of these wonderful horses.
Although Crabbet Arabians are not a well-known line in the U.S., those who own them deeply appreciate their intelligence, affectionate nature, and athleticism. The high-percentage Crabbets at Harley Farm are extremely people-oriented, and their soundness and tractability help them excel in virtually any sport horse discipline. Our horses have also proven themselves to be patient and dependable mounts for young riders.
Crabbet Arabians have a long history as capable performance horses. Their endurance, responsiveness, soundness, and willingness to work have made them successful in many different disciplines. Today, Crabbet-line horses can be found participating in trail riding, endurance, dressage, racing, working cattle, fox hunting, and many other equestrian activities.
Their influence can also be found in crosses with breeds such as Quarter Horses, Morgans, and Thoroughbreds, where their stamina, intelligence, and temperament are highly valued.
Crabbet breeders today continue to place great importance on maintaining the qualities treasured by the Bedouin. Rather than focusing on an exaggerated “Arabian” appearance (tiny noses, bulging eyes, etc.), they target temperament, conformation, and athletic ability.
Whether you are looking for horse boarding, a Crabbet-bred horse, a Cashmere goat, or simply want to learn more about the farm, we are always happy to hear from you.
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