Last updated: 2 August 2026
Horse breeds
Cleveland Bay
An old English horse breed, usually bay, with strength and riding horse quality.
- Origin
- England
- Height
- Usually 1.60 to 1.68 m at the withers.
- Disciplines
- Historically an unsurpassed carriage and driving horse, today also valued for hunting and as a sport horse, always bay in colour.
- Character
- gentle and willing
- For beginners
- Yes, suitable
Origin
The Cleveland Bay originally comes from England. An old English horse breed, usually bay, with strength and riding horse quality. Historically important for harness, hunting and sport horse breeding.
Appearance and character
Playful breed indicator (from the app)
These are playful indicators from the HorseJournal app, not a scientific or official breed standard. They describe general tendencies. Every horse is different.
Good for beginners?
With a gentle, people-oriented character, the Cleveland Bay is often a suitable choice for beginner riders, always with good guidance.
Did you know?
The name refers to the Cleveland area and the typical bay color.
Famous horses and remarkable facts
Mulgrave Supreme
Mulgrave Supreme was bought by Queen Elizabeth II and made available as a public stallion; the breed society describes him as a household name with many successful offspring.
Frequently asked questions
How tall does a Cleveland Bay get?
Usually 1.60 to 1.68 m at the withers.
Which disciplines is the Cleveland Bay suited for?
Historically an unsurpassed carriage and driving horse, today also valued for hunting and as a sport horse, always bay in colour.
What health points are linked to the Cleveland Bay?
A rare breed with a limited gene pool; therefore choose responsible breeding carefully and arrange a pre-purchase veterinary exam.
How old does a Cleveland Bay get on average?
About 25 to 30 years.
Can I mix the Cleveland Bay with another breed?
Yes. In the HorseJournal Breed Mixer you pick the Cleveland Bay and a second breed, and the app creates your own dream breed with a name, a profile in your own language and an illustration.
