Few pieces evoke such a potent yearning for childhood as a rocking horse.
The charm of the nostalgic decors spans from their function as children's toys. Since the 17th century, the carousel-like creatures have taken pride of place in nurseries, bedrooms and living rooms as archaic statement pieces to be simultaneously clambered on and admired.
The earliest form of a rocking horse was referred to as a ‘hobby horse’, a fabricated horse head attached to a stick which was used for jousting practice during the Middle Ages. Only in the 19th century did the rocking-horse-as-toy emerge, when an updated rocking horse mechanism was designed by an American inventor featuring a new-and-improved glider feature that offered stationary swinging motions.
The horses may stay in one place physically, but their legacy continued to evolve throughout the decades.
The beautiful models developed as decorative items, showcasing marbled dappling, real horse hair manes and tails, carnivalesque colour detailing and glass eyes. Perhaps in part due to their royal connotations (King Charles I, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II all owned prized pony possessions), the rocking horse has retained an antiquated appeal. Hence why contemporary brands such as The White Company, JoJo Maman Bébé and even Hermès continue to produce modern variations for children to enjoy.
Antique and second-hand renditions sourced from traditional rocking horse makers act as family heirlooms - beloved timepieces for generations to cherish. The craftsmanship behind their production may have dramatically dwindled, yet it remains a heritage industry with approximately 20 companies producing rocking horses and around a hundred individuals making and selling at craft shows.
The Juniper Barn, one of the antiques and decorative pieces specialists to continue the circulation of traditional rocking horses, advises how to best go about sourcing a second-hand rocking horse.
What should someone look for when buying an antique rocking horse?
“We would suggest looking for early 20th century rocking horses either in their original condition or restored. Look for original maker plates, a solid wood body and a good stand. Ideally, the rocking horse in question would feature leather tack, beautiful dappling, real horse hair mane and tail and glass eyes. It doesn’t matter how faded the colours are - this can add to the charm. We look for an attractive head and an elegant stance. For a top-quality antique rocking horse, you’ll be looking at spending a couple of thousand pounds. The restoration process can also be expensive. However, the joy of a rocking horse is timeless. They are true treasures and make for exquisite family heirlooms.”
In their trusty buyer’s guide, The Rocking Horse Works notes some points to consider for first-time buyers.
- Purpose: is the rocking horse intended as a children's toy, decorative heirloom, or an investment that will accumulate in value?
- Cost: the rule of thumb is generally that the bigger the horse, the bigger the cost, with prices tending to reflect condition, quality of carving and construction. Imported machine-made horses are not built to last.
- Size: this depends on your space. Remember that your horse will need a few feet front and back to swing fully.
- Safety swing or bow rockers: bows tend to be more aesthetically pleasing, but Marqua or safety stands are considered safer than bows and have been in use since the 1880s.
- Old or new: buying new allows for personalisation, such as size and style choices that will position the horse as a cherished heirloom for years to come. For those wanting a purely decorative piece and not a rocking horse to be ridden you might consider buying an old or antique horse.
Our captivation with rocking horses lives on. Inject your home with a nostalgic piece to pass down and shop our edit of both antique and contemporary rocking horses below.
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New rocking horses
Contemporary options may be more practical for those on a budget or looking for an easy-clean kids toy for them to clamber all over. Shop the best, new rocking horses which are perfect for filly fun.
Hermès Epopee Pull-Along Horse
Dimensions: L 25.5 x H 19.5 x D 10 cm
Trotting the line between luxury and practicality is Hermès’ Epopee Pull-Along Horse. Available in two colourways, tangerine-rose and mid-blue, the rocking horse will add a tinge of contemporary luxury to any modern interior. The printed Beachwood piece is designed by Jan Bajtlik and transports owners to mystical fairytale lands replete with toybox creatures and childish charm.
Buy now £950.00, Hermès
Laura Ashley Rocking Horse
Dimensions: H 62 x W 28 x D 69.5 cm
For those on a budget but with an eye for interiors, look to Laura Ashley. The heritage brand is currently stocking a gorgeous rocking horse for toddlers to enjoy. The mustard and sage ‘Calcot’ floral print sourced from the Laura Ashley archives is an attractive design that is coupled with a sturdy base, trimmed saddle and handles to make for endless hours of rocking and certainly no rolling.
Buy now £76.30, Mamas and Papas
Handmade Rocking Horse Titan IV
Dimensions: L 105 x B 31x H 79 cm
This lovingly handmade rocking horse from MJmark features a soft traditional head and body with a carved wooden nose for your child to treat with care. A cushioned saddle provides optimal comfort for your youngster as they play, while a solid wooden base ensures a safe, secure ride. Suitable for ages three and up, this handsome skewbold rocking horse will make an excellent addition to their bedroom or nursery.
Buy now £159.99, Amazon
Vilac White Polar Bear Rocker
Dimensions: L 75 x W 28 cm
Opt for a fellow four-legged creature and let your children have an icy blast. This polar bear rocker is a solid piece for your child to play with. Inspired by the famous sculpture of the White Bear by François Pompon, the bear is crafted from smooth, lightweight wood and is set on a sturdy, curved base for effortless rocking. Supportive handles help your little ones to stabilise themselves.
Buy now £115.00, Children Salon
Strawberry Roan Rocking Horse
Dimensions: L x 105, B x 31, H x 79 cm
Another MJmark offering, the Strawberry Roan Rocking Horse displays elegant dappling reminiscent of an antique version. It’s beautifully handmade here in the UK and comes complete with an elegant carved head, a soft nose for petting and a padded seat. Put your mind at ease knowing your child is in safe hooves with the item’s solid wooden base which will gently rock them back and forth. Suitable from two to three years of age.
Buy now £154.99, Amazon
Antique/second-hand rocking horses
Antique/second-hand rocking horses bring magic to interior spaces. Discover a range of beautiful rocking pieces of all prices to add some mare-induced mystique to your home.
English Pillar Stand Rocking Horse c.1880
Dimensions: H 112.01 x W 132.08 x D 45.97 cm
Invite a timeless heritage piece to your home. This stunning English rocking horse dating back to the late 19th century is a show of true craftsmanship. Sourced by Malborough Antiques, the piece is in good condition and features elegant carving and superior paintings. Note, there is no maker’s mark but the horse has a similar construction to that from the Liverpool Victorian Firm.
Buy now £4305.00, Vinterior
Vintage Rocking Horse Wooden Mid-Century c.1940
Dimensions: H x 78 cm
Traditional rocking horses aren’t for everyone. Mid-century fiends will adore this vintage rocking horse dating back to the 1940s. A minimalist style, smaller frame and chestnut wooden construction will look perfect in a child’s bedroom. Sourced from a professional seller, Take Me Home Retro who offers 14-day returns and buyer protection.
Buy now £225.00, Vinterior
The Rocking Horse Shop FH Ayres Replica Rocking Horse
Dimensions: L 152.4 x W 50.8 x H 124.5 cm
A classic design sourced by The Rocking Horse Shop, this sophisticated dappled piece will act as the focal point of any rustic living room. It’s a beautiful replica of the renowned maker F H Ayres - hand-carved and finished by the brand’s skilled team. Special features include top-grade leather bridle and saddlery, horse hair mane and tail, solid brass buckles, brackets and stirrups and is mounted on a safety stand with turned posts. A smaller version is also available.
Buy now £3995.00, The Rocking Horse Shop
The Juniper Barn Rocking Horse Moulds c.1940
Dimensions: L x 122, H x 70, W x 38 cm
Animate your garden or liven up your indoor space with some unique rocking horse moulds courtesy of The Juniper Barn. Sourced from an old factory in the UK, these are the original fibreglass moulds used to craft rocking horses, making them superb conversation pieces for inquisitive guests. Snap up the available black-grey and white ponies and allow them to convey your unparalleled interior taste.
Buy now £350.00, The Juniper Barn
The Rocking Horse Works Rocking Zebra
Dimensions: H 132.08 cm
Want your rocking horse to be the mane event? This super-striking rocking zebra will tickle the taste buds of maximalists everywhere. Transform your home into an African savanna with a thundering piece like this one sourced by The Rocking Horse Works. Ebony black leather tack and real numna make for lavish additional features. Prices for rocking zebras range from £2,800 to £5,900.
Buy now £2800.01, The Rocking Horse Works
