Riding pony Horses in England

The main difference between a pony and a horse is size; ponies are 14.2 hands (58 inches) or shorter at the withers, while horses are taller. Ponies tend to have stockier builds, thicker manes and tails, and proportionally stronger bodies compared to horses, which usually have longer legs and slimmer frames. Additionally, ponies are often considered better suited for children and small adults due to their size and strength.

Sometimes ponies can be harder to ride than horses because they often have quicker gaits and more energetic temperaments, requiring riders to be more alert and responsive. However, this varies between individual animals, and many ponies are trained to be calm and manageable. Overall, riding difficulty depends more on the individual animal's personality and training rather than simply whether it is a pony or horse.

A British Riding Pony is a specific pony breed known for combining the sleekness and elegance of Thoroughbreds with the compact, sturdy build of ponies. They are refined in appearance and popular as mounts for children competing in showing and riding classes, prized for their good temperament and versatility.