They are an elegant high stepping breed of carriage horse that is popular for showing in harness events.

Hackneys possess good stamina, and are capable of trotting at high speed for extended periods of time.

As a result, in 1542 King Henry VIII required his wealthy subjects keep a specified number of trotting horse stallions for breeding use.

[1] In 1820 Bellfounder a Norfolk Trotter stallion who was able to trot 17 miles in an hour with 14 stone up, was exported to America where he was the damsire of Hambletonian 10.

During the 19th century, with the expansion of the railway, the Norfolk breed fell out of favour, to be revived later by the Hackney Horse Society.

The Norfolk and Yorkshire Trotter were selectively bred for elegant style and speed, and were developed into the modern Hackney Horse.

They are still extremely successful in harness, and can also produce very nice riding horses, many known for their ability in show jumping and dressage competition.

In the trot, they exhibit showiness and an exaggerated high knee and hock action due to very good flexion of their joints.

The front legs reach up high with sharply bent knees that are stretched well forward with a ground covering stride.

In addition to inherent soundness and endurance, the Hackney Horse has proven to be a breed with an easy, rhythmic canter, and a brisk, springy walk.