Our Story
A family-run business, built on horses, country life and a passion for bringing people together.
ROOTED IN CRAFTSMANSHIP
It began in 1979
In 1979, David returned to Throstlenest from Cordwainers as a qualified saddler and established a workshop specialising in the making and repair of saddlery and bridlework.
In the early days, the business was mainly repairs, with a small amount of stock sold alongside the workshop services. As word spread, demand grew and David began creating more and more new pieces — from practical equestrian items to bespoke leatherwork.
When David married Jayne, they worked together to grow the business, expanding the shop and showrooms while keeping the same focus on craftsmanship, friendly service and expert advice.
A SHARED PASSION
A Life With Horses
Horses have always been at the heart of Throstlenest.
David competed from a young age under the guidance of his father, a respected judge who officiated at the Horse of the Year Show, and later enjoyed eventing up to intermediate level.
Jayne came from a non-horsey family and followed the more traditional route of “begging for a pony”, looking after her own horse, hacking miles to shows and relying on lifts from friends with transport. She later competed in affiliated eventing up to Novice level.
Together, they have always loved being part of the horse community and everything that comes with it.
MORE THAN A SADDLERY
The Old Stables Coffee Shop
As Throstlenest grew, the family wanted to create somewhere customers could stay a little longer, relax and enjoy the setting as well as the shop itself.
That idea became The Old Stables Coffee Shop, created from one of the original stable buildings at Throstlenest.
What started as a simple idea, somewhere to enjoy a good coffee after browsing has become a welcoming part of Throstlenest, serving homemade cakes, light bites and great coffee in a relaxed countryside setting.
It’s a place to meet, pause, chat and enjoy the atmosphere, whether you’re visiting the saddlery or simply calling in for coffee.
OUR WONDERFUL TEAM
Throstlenest Today
After decades in the saddlery business, Throstlenest is still very much a family-run business.
The same values remain at the heart of everything we do: quality products, knowledgeable advice and genuinely friendly service.
We’re also incredibly proud of the wonderful team around us. Our staff bring warmth, experience and a genuine love of horses to Throstlenest every day, and together we’ve created a friendly, close-knit team that always has time to help, advise and make customers feel welcome.
Whether you visit us in store or shop online, our aim is simple — to make your experience enjoyable, personal and informed.
