Horses were essential for transport and power until well into the 20th century. They carried goods on their backs, pulled vehicles and farm machinery. They were also used to turn machinery in the mines.

Peakland horses were well adapted to their environment. Here is how they were described in 1789:

“In the northern part of Derbyshire the horses are smaller, and more light and slender, and on account of their make are better adapted to the business of a mountainous country. As a large quantity of limestone is burnt in the Peak, they are much employed in carrying this article to distant places thro’ roads, some of which are scarcely passable with wheel carriages. It is surprizing to observe, with what agility and ease they will rise and descend the steepest hills, with very large burdens upon their backs.

Nor is the like extraordinary effect of custom and habit less conspicuous in the horses, which are used for the saddle. In pursuing the diversion of hunting they will run full speed along the side of, or directly down the steepest declivities. It is said, that those, which have been long used to the country, will ascend any precipice, which can be climbed by man.”?

A Peakland horse once showed off its agility by climbing the Monument steps in London.